‘Naatu Naatu’ choreographer Prem Rakshith on RRR song winning Golden Globe: ‘As an Indian, I feel very proud’

On January 10, the highly energetic song “Naatu Naatu” from SS Rajamouli’s global blockbuster RRR (2022) emerged as the winner in the Best Original Song category at the Golden Globes Awards 2023, beating the songs of such popular artists as Taylor Swift, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga. Among the people that music composer MM Keeravani thanked in his emotional speech was Prem Rakshith, who choreographed the song.

In an exclusive interview with Indian Express, Prem talked about his reaction after “Naatu Naatu” won at the Golden Globes. “I went blank, I cried in my washroom for more than one-and-a-half hours,” he said. “It felt like it was not possible but it actually happened because of Rajamouli sir’s hard work. I am so happy. It all happened because of the two heroes, Jr NTR annaya (elder brother) and Charan sir because they both are very good dancers. Keeravani sir’s music has taken off all the weight. Rajamouli sir told me everything, what song is going to happen, what is the concept, and everything.”

Sung by Rahul Sipligunj, and Kala Bhairawa and composed by MM Keeravani, the song became a huge hit after it was launched as a part of the promotions of RRR. Its dubbed version in Hindi has also amassed views and likes in millions on YouTube.

Praising Jr NTR and Ram Charan’s dedication, Prem said, “They are both good dancers but the difficult thing was their style. They both had to be synchronised and I didn’t know how to do that. We developed it all from zero. They have to match and that means that I have to give something new, which is perfect for both of them. I can’t give steps that only Charan sir would dance to and Tarak sir won’t. I composed more than 118 steps for this song. Usually, per song, we used to compose 2-3 steps but we were going ahead and making so many steps.”

The choreographer signed off by saying, “As an Indian, I feel very proud. There are a lot of opportunities in and around India, why do we have to search for them internationally? Now we have got the Golden Globe Award, I feel we should go higher. By Sai Baba’s grace, I hope it (Oscar win) happens. We have won the Golden Globe and by his grace, everything will happen.”

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