In Indian movies of the 1950's to 1980's there would often be a sexy dance number set in a restaurant, a bar, or sometimes in a crime boss's den. The "vamps" who performed these provocative songs often had minor or supporting roles in the story. They showed some skin and were intensely popular.  These performances were referred to as cabarets (pronounced by many Indians as "kabray") and were a big draw.Cabaret performers include Helen, Jayshree T, Bindu and many others.   One of the most celebrated performances by Helen is from the 1971 movie Caravan , Piya Tu Ab to Aaja (Oh you my beloved, Come to me now!).  Expensive bars and restaurants in major cities also hosted cabaret performers from time to time.By the 1990's cabaret songs had given way to the Item Number (which see). And roving belly dancers from Russia and the former Soviet Union  had begun the supplant the cabaret performers at party and restaurants.