IIFA swept by Jodha Akbar - Page 4

Choreographer Longinus Fernandes, represented by Xcel Talent Agency of Atlanta, is nominated for The 2009Astaire Award for Best Film Choreographer for his work in the Academy Award winning film Slumdog Millionaire.

Fernandes, a dancer turned choreographer, has worked on numerous Hindi films and the top dance reality television show "Jhalak Dikhla Ja." He received The Best Choreographer Award at The 2009 Filmfare Awards for his work in the movie Papu Can't Dance. His contributions to the Indian dance industry have earned him a spot as one of India's top choreographers and helped him to land the role as choreographer for Slumdog. Fernandes was personally selected by the film's director, Danny Boyle. "Amar Butala, who I had earlier worked with, recommended me to Danny. I went prepared but all Danny saw was one of my previous works, and I was on," Fernandes said.

Slumdog Millionaire, the rags-to-riches story of an orphan from Mumbai, features two works from the choreographer. Fernandes was thrilled to be given the opportunity to choreograph to "O Saaya" and "Jai Ho," both by the acclaimed Indian composer A.R. Rahman. "Jai Ho," which plays during the final credits of the film, won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. The film also won Oscars for Best Director, Best Original Score, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Adapted Screenplay