Remember the groundbreaking video from 1991 Michael Jackson Dr. Yamuna Sangarasivam and classical dancer Indian star? It was very popular for its unique concept and ambitious production. Shot on the bustling streets of Los Angeles, the video was noted for its global cultural elements. Interestingly, the dancer performing the Odissi-inspired sequence was not directly chosen from India. Yes, you heard that right!Dr. Yamuna Sangarasivam, a Sri Lankan-American dancer, became an overnight sensation after a short but striking 20-second performance alongside Michael Jackson. In an interview shared by India Wants To Know, he recalled how he got the role by accident.
Yamuna Sangarasivam’s audition story for Michael Jackson’s ‘Black or White’ video song
He said: “There was a call for a Michael Jackson video audition, and they said, ‘You should come with us.’ I wasn’t sure — I thought, since my background is very traditional classical dance, I didn’t know if it would make it into a Michael Jackson video. That evening, I talked to my parents and said, ‘Dad, I don’t know if I should do it or not.’ But Amma said, ‘Chella, honey, you should absolutely go to this audition,'” she laughed, adding that that encouragement got her to the audition.
Selected from over 3,000 performers, Dr. Sangarasivam brought Indian classical influence to a global stage, appearing in the final segment filmed on a Los Angeles freeway. Reports also suggest that Michael Jackson paid special attention to the rehearsals and worked closely with him to improve the duet.
“Michael 2” is next
The recently released film ‘Michael’ is a grand autobiographical drama that chronicles the life and rise of Michael Jackson, focusing on his journey. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film stars Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s real-life nephew, and marked his acting debut as MJ. The film opened to huge box office numbers, earning around $97 million in its opening weekend in the US and around $217-219 million worldwide in its opening days, making it one of the biggest musical biopics of all time. Interestingly, the makers have also announced the 2nd part of the film confirming “Michael 2”.
