Prime Minister Modi visits the shooting location of ‘Naatu Naatu’
The Journey Behind ‘Naatu Naatu’ – An Oscar-Winning Song from RRR
The story of ‘Naatu Naatu,’ the electrifying song from the Oscar-winning film RRR, is a remarkable one involving 20 days of shooting, 43 retakes, and 110 meticulously crafted dance moves. This captivating track was filmed at the Mariinsky Palace in Ukraine, a location recently visited by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The palace, which has become iconic due to its association with this chart-busting song, hosted the filming in 2021 during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Directed by SS Rajamouli, RRR has not only made waves in India but has also captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Granting Permissions for Shooting
RRR was officially released in theaters in 2022 and featured an extensive array of filming locations, including Ukraine’s Mariinsky Palace, Mezhyhirya Park, and the Victoria Film Studio. At the time, due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the film’s shooting was facilitated with the support of the President’s Office. Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of Kyiv, played a crucial role in assisting Rajamouli’s team. President Volodymyr Zelensky, who himself had a background in television before his political career, granted permission for the shoot, highlighting the cultural collaboration between the two nations.
The Making of ‘Naatu Naatu’
‘Naatu Naatu’ was composed by the talented MM Keeravani and quickly became a sensation not just in India but globally. Featuring the astounding performances of South Indian superstars Ram Charan and Junior N.T.R., the song’s viral choreography has inspired numerous fans and celebrities to recreate its iconic steps. The choreographer, Prem Rakshith, had to navigate the challenge of uniting two distinct styles into a cohesive performance, which he described as an intricate process.
The Rigorous Choreography
Prem Rakshith shared insights about the meticulous effort involved in creating the choreography for ‘Naatu Naatu.’ He stated:
“It took almost two months to choreograph this song. I developed 110 distinct moves to ensure both stars could shine equally. We invested significant effort behind the scenes before finally shooting the 4-minute and 35-second sequence. The actual shoot took 20 long days.”
Behind the Scenes: A Challenging Process
With immense pressure on him, Rakshith was concerned about making sure neither superstar outshone the other. He reflected on the challenges of synchronizing their energies, especially with both actors’ unique performing styles. The filming schedule was rigorous, with morning shoots followed by evening rehearsals that would last until 9 PM. Junior N.T.R. humorously referred to the grueling process as ‘torture,’ mentioning that the filming posed significant challenges, especially over the 65 days leading to completion.
A Triumph in Artistry
Ultimately, the effort paid off, as ‘Naatu Naatu’ became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its energetic rhythm and remarkable choreography. The song has won prestigious awards such as the Golden Globe and the Oscar, solidifying its place in global music history. The collaborative spirit and dedication behind ‘Naatu Naatu’ showcases how art can transcend boundaries, bringing together different cultures for a common celebration of creativity.
