Seven best Vijay dance numbers

The ability to pull off a dance sequence convincingly is one of the most discussed aspects of a star. Vijay's popularity as a dancer stands apart, with countless iconic dance performances across music genres. A catchy, beat-heavy song is a given in a Vijay film, and even if the quality of the songs themselves might vary, what is constant is the star's ability to effortlessly blend to the choreography.

With the release of his latest film, The Greatest of All Time (GOAT), here is a list of seven of his best dance performances. Songs are in order of year of release.

Aal Thotta Bhoopathi (Youth, 2002)

This was Vijay in his pre-Thirumalai era, before he became known for his action-oriented films. There is a tenderness to Vijay's moves, and he is ably supported by Shankar Mahadevan's blistering singing. Watching 'Aal Thotta Bhoopathi' today hits the viewer with nostalgia of a simpler time, and a simpler Vijay.

Tham Thaka (Thirumalai, 2003)

In a film that redefined him in more than one way, this Vidyasagar composition saw Vijay part dance-off, part dance-with Raghava Lawrence. There isn't a single moment in this riot where you can take your eyes off. Lawrence is a choreographer himself, but it's impossible to pick the better dancer here. Every beat in the song is choreographed in sync.

Appadi Podu (Ghilli, 2004)

In this irresistibly fun song from the quintessential Vijay film, his much-talked-about chemistry with Trisha is in its full glory, with singers KK and Anuradha Sriram joining the party from behind the screen. When Ghilli was re-released earlier this year, 'Appadi Podu' was replayed in many theatres after the climax. The sheer hysteria that ensued with everyone on their feet dancing is proof enough of this song's legacy.

Aadungada Yennai Suththi (Pokkiri, 2007)

Pokkiri has many noteworthy dance numbers, but this one takes the cake. The "collar-lifting step" was a viral hookstep even before such a term existed. Vijay dances with a sense of unabashed abandon, doing full justice to Prabhu Deva's vision. Aadungada... showed a side of Vijay that was wild and went all-in.

Ellappugazhum (Azhagiya Tamil Magan, 2007)

There is a line in this relentlessly paced AR Rahman number that says Nadhi Pole Odi Kondiru (keep running like a river). The same can be said for Vijay, who dances non-stop with breathtaking speed, wearing an unbuttoned shirt over a round neck t-shirt that was his trademark in the 2000s. It is safe to say that watching Ellappugazhum can bring back someone from the dead!

Karikalan (Vettaikaaran, 2009)

This relatively softer song is an exhibit of how a great dancer can infuse zest into a simple choreography and make it enjoyable. Vijay's vibrancy here is infectious, and 'Karikalan' was among the few pleasures during this comparatively low period in his filmography. 

Vaathi Coming (Master, 2021)

Vijay is fully in character in this sparkling number by Anirudh that is devoid of lip sync. As an alcoholic professor, the actor showed just the right hints of hangover, laziness, and carefreeness. The song is full of single takes, and Vijay shows utmost confidence in what became a pan-Indian sensation.