Indian filmmaker SS Rajamouli’s period action blockbuster “RRR” has made history by becoming the first Indian track to win an Academy Award in the Best Original Song category for “Naatu Naatu”. The Telugu song, composed by MM Keeravaani and penned by Chandrabose, was nominated alongside songs from “Tell It Like a Woman”, “Top Gun: Maverick”, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”, and “Everything Everywhere All at Once”.
This marks the third major international recognition for “Naatu Naatu” after it won a Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award. The song celebrates the inclusive spirit of dance and bonhomie and features actors Ram Charan and Jr NTR matching steps to its catchy rhythm. The title of the track translates to bucolic in Telugu, and it demonstrates the spirit of fun in country music in its over 4.35 minutes of runtime.
“RRR” (Rise Roar Revolt) is a pre-independence fictional story that follows two real-life Indian revolutionaries Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem in the 1920s. The film has garnered critical acclaim for its stunning visual effects, compelling storytelling, and exceptional performances from its star-studded cast.
“Naatu Naatu” was shot in the lawns of the Presidential Palace of Kyiv in Ukraine. Choreographer Prem Rakshith came up with over “100 variations” of the hook step for the song, according to Rajamouli. Singers Rahul Sipligunj and Kala Bhairava also performed the song at the Oscars ceremony, adding to the global recognition of the film and its soundtrack.
This award marks a significant milestone for Indian cinema, as it showcases the diversity and creativity of the country’s film industry. The success of “Naatu Naatu” and “RRR” is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire cast and crew, who brought this epic tale to life on the big screen.
It is worth noting that “Jai Ho” from the 2008 British film “Slumdog Millionaire”, directed by Danny Boyle, was the first Hindi song to win an Academy Award in the Best Original Score and Original Song categories. Composed by AR Rahman and penned by Gulzar, the song became an instant hit and helped to popularize Indian music around the world.
In conclusion, the success of “Naatu Naatu” and “RRR” at the Academy Awards is a proud moment for Indian cinema and its fans. The film industry continues to break barriers and showcase its immense talent on the global stage, and we can’t wait to see what other groundbreaking works come out of this vibrant and dynamic industry in the future.
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