Ukrainian army trolls Russia with viral Naatu Naatu dance video
Last year, Naatu Naatu took the world by storm with its infectious beats and catchy lyrics. Featured in SS Rajamouli's blockbuster film RRR, the song not only captivated audiences but earned an Oscar for Best Original Song this year. Now, a video of Ukrainian army personnel dancing to the song has gone viral, sending a powerful message in the process.
- The video was shared on Twitter by Jane Fedotova, and shows the Ukraine military personnel from Mykolaiv showcasing their dance skills.
- The troops recreated the original dance steps performed by actors Ram Charan and Jr NTR in the film.
However, their interpretation of the song carries a significant message.
While the original scene depicted the lead actors protesting against a British officer, the Ukrainian version expresses their protest against Russia, which invaded Ukraine in February of the previous year, sparking a conflict that continues to this day.
The caption of the video, loosely translated from Ukrainian, sheds light on the intent behind this rendition of Naatu Naatu.
- It states, "The military from Mykolaiv filmed a parody of the song #NaatuNaatu from the movie RRR, the main soundtrack of which won an Oscar this year. In the original scene, the main characters express their protest against the British officer (coloniser) with a song."
By aligning their performance with the original theme of protest against colonisation, the Ukrainian military uses Naatu Naatu as a platform to voice their opposition to the actions of the Russian Federation, which they view as an oppressor that has colonised Ukraine.
This adaptation of the song carries a powerful message and aims to enlighten people about the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Fedotova further emphasises the significance of this version by stating, "Therefore, the fact that the Ukrainian version is against the Russian Federation, which colonised Ukraine, and the original is against another colonising country, I hope will put the right meanings in the heads of Indians."
The viral dance by the Ukrainian military serves as a testament to the universal power of music and dance to transcend language and cultural barriers. It showcases the creative spirit and resilience of the Ukrainian people as they find innovative ways to express their emotions and raise awareness about their struggles.
Moreover, this viral video brings attention to the global impact of Indian cinema and its ability to resonate with audiences across borders.
- Naatu Naatu has not only become a sensation in India but has also captured the hearts of people worldwide, inspiring them to celebrate their own culture and use art as a means of communication and resistance.
Composed by MM Keeravaani, the song gained international recognition following its Oscar win. Not only did it elevate the composer's global profile, but also sparked the famously viral dance trend with its infectious hook step.
However, the song's significance extends beyond its accolades and the dance phenomenon it inspired.
- The most notable aspect of Naatu Naatu that often goes unrecognised is the location where it was filmed—the Ukrainian Presidential Palace itself.
The breathtaking palace seen in the background is not a film set, but the real Mariinsky Palace in Ukraine. The shooting took place in June 2021; an unexpected occurrence considering the ongoing conflict in the country.
Natarajan Ramji, the individual responsible for introducing the Ukraine Presidential Palace to SS Rajamouli and his team, shared that this was the first time a film crew was granted permission to shoot at the prestigious location. The palace, also known as the official residence of Ukraine's President, is used by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to host foreign leaders.
In the end, it seems Naatu Naatu has proved to be as entertaining as it is a symbol of hope and resilience.