Item numbers have always been a part and parcel of commercial Hindi cinema. And the Indian audiences have always been crazy enough to watch an entire film just to catch the song. More disposable income has ensured that cine-goers are ready to splurge a huge amount if they are desperate enough to watch the song. But what makes today's film-makers not think twice before pumping in lakhs into item numbers?

The promotional song of Sajid Khan's directorial debut "Hey Baby" features 14 actresses. Hence, the high expenditure. Following the new trend, Atul Agnihotri has spent Rs. 1.75 crore for the number "Kar le baby dance vance", composed by Sajid-Wajid, in his forthcoming film "Hello". The song, comprising some 70 dancers and 300 other people, also features Arbaaz Khan, Sohail Khan, Amrita Arora, Sharman Joshi and Gul Panag. Singer Daler Mehendi is reportedly so impressed with the song that he has not charged a penny for his efforts. Well, at least that's some saving!

-(SAMPURN)