According to recently released data from Google search, global online searches for “Naatu Naatu“ by Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava surged by an impressive 1,105% on Mar 13. This came after the 2022 Telugu-language movie “RRR“ won the prestigious Best Original Song award at the 95th Academy Awards.
A recent study conducted by Japanese online casino guide 6Takarakuji found that the interest in ‘Naatu Naatu’ skyrocketed to more than ten times the average volume within just a few hours of the film’s victory at the Oscars. This sudden spike in interest is a testament to the movie’s impact on the global audience, making it a significant cultural phenomenon.
Since its release in March of last year, the Indian song has taken the world by storm and has achieved massive popularity on TikTok, earning a staggering 52.6 million views. The song features a fast-paced rhythm that perfectly fits the electrifying dance battle between the legendary revolutionaries and their colonial oppressors, making it a fan favorite across various platforms. The song’s catchy tune and vibrant choreography have taken it to global acclaim, making it a cultural landmark in the music industry.
South Asian Dancers Express Disapproval Of ‘Naatu Naatu’ Oscar Performance
Various news outlets, including Variety, L.A. Times, and IndieWire, reported that the performance of “Naatu Naatu” at the 95th Academy Awards received significant criticism for not including any South Asian dancers, even though “RRR“ is a movie about Indian history and music.
The lack of representation has been a major disappointment for South Asian dance professionals, who saw it as a missed opportunity to showcase their talent on a global platform.
In addition, there was greater diversity in the Oscars’ version of the dance than in the film, in which Indian characters dance against mainly white British men. However, the absence of South Asian performers has raised concerns regarding the Oscars’ commitment to marginalized communities having equal access to opportunities and resources.
“Respectfully, where is the representation?” choreographer Joya Kazi inquires in an Instagram post before the performance.
However, dancer Achinta S. McDaniel wasn’t afraid to speak her mind, telling Variety, “Some people say, ‘Just be happy with what we got,’ and that’s part of [the problem] — this idea of just accepting the scraps that are thrown to you. Just be happy an Indian song was nominated [and won]. Don’t be mad about the overwhelming racism that appeared in the performance.”
Infamous Controversies Involving Celebrities
During the 2020 Oscars, Eminem’s surprise performance of his Oscar-winning song “Lose Yourself” from the movie “8 Mile” received mixed reactions from the audience. The decision to feature a song released almost 20 years ago surprised some and angered others.
Furthermore, the Oscars received backlash in 2018 due to their treatment of the posthumous nomination of Kobe Bryant, who was accused of sexual assault in 2003. Some believed that recognizing Bryant was wrong and ignored the harm caused to his accuser while also sending a negative message about the entertainment world’s position on sexual crimes.
These incidents, along with others, have brought to light the importance of inclusion and diversity in the entertainment industry. In addition, they have led to ongoing discussions and efforts toward creating a more inclusive and equal industry.
6Takarakuji’s Spokesperson Reacts To Success Of RRR’s “Naatu Naatu” Performance
Based on the study, 6Takarakuji’s spokesperson stated that during this year’s Oscars ceremony, ‘Naatu Naatu’ made history by becoming the first song from an Indian film to win in the Best Song category.
‘The song won over the likes of music legends such as Lady Gaga and Rihanna, which is a testament to the song’s huge popularity, as highlighted by the huge spike in this data. During the Oscars ceremony, the electrifying live performance of the song by singers Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava received a standing ovation from the crowd, and this historic win will give RRR and ‘Naatu Naatu’ some well-deserved exposure.”
Written by Nikiya Biggs | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest
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