New Delhi: In recent decades, Indian cinema has achieved global acclaim, especially in the Western world, for its storytelling, cinematography, and music. One such example is the Telugu song-and-dance-sequence, Naatu Naatu (Naacho naacho), from SS Rajamouli’s Telugu blockbuster, RRR.
This movie track has become an unexpected representative of India, receiving overwhelming popularity from an international audience, which has led to its nomination for several prestigious awards.
Composed by MM Keeravani, with lyrics by Chandrabose, and choreographed by Prem Rakshith, the frenzy around the song has built up to a crescendo at the back of a wave of Instagram and TikTok reels from all over the world.
Despite India producing better music and themes in the past, Naatu Naatu, with its very regular tune and lyrics, has managed to capture the hearts of people around the globe.
One of the reasons behind the song’s success is the movie’s story, which is a mix of fact and mythology, depicting the Indian resistance to British imperialism.
Naatu Naatu fits seamlessly into the narrative, with its precursor being a provocation scene in which a Britisher calls Akhtar a “country oaf,” leading to a dance-off. This scene resonates with people worldwide, as racism remains an issue, and its projection reminds one of the times that once were.
Additionally, Naatu Naatu’s popularity can be attributed to its joyful vibe and hook of a dance step that has become a rage. The song’s foot-tapping beats and catchy tune pulsate through your body, making you want to get up and dance along.
It has even won a Golden Globe Award and been nominated for the Critics Choice Award, further solidifying its international appeal.
Furthermore, Naatu Naatu’s success is rooted in the movie’s broader message of the underdog rising, portraying poverty-stricken India in the 1920s wrapped in colors, costumes, nationalism, and puffy music.
The movie’s story resonates with people globally, reminding us of the struggles and sacrifices made by our ancestors to fight for freedom and independence.
Naatu Naatu’s global popularity stems from its ability to capture the hearts and minds of people worldwide, owing to its joyful vibe, foot-tapping beats, catchy tune, and the movie’s broader message of resistance against imperialism.
Movie nomination for several prestigious awards is proof that Indian cinema is not only popular within its borders but has also made a name for itself globally.