India just made Oscars history.
Viral song “Naatu Naatu”, which has made the world dance to its tune, won the Best Original Song Oscar on Sunday Night, making it the first Indian song (composed for an Indian movie) to achieve the feat.
In 2009, Indian composer AR Rahman won Best Original Score for his work in Danny Boyle’s “Slumdog Millionaire”.
Singer duo Kaala Bhairava and Rahul Sipligunj also performed the song with a squadron of dancers giving a scintillating performance which received a resounding cheer and a standing ovation from attendees.
Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone introduced the performance of Best Original Song nominee “Naatu Naatu,” from the Telegu-language “RRR.”
Bhairava and Sipligunj, dressed in traditional Indian outfits, spoke to AP on the red carpet. Bhairava promised that the performance will be unlike anything the audience has seen before — and he delivered.
The music for “Naatu Naatu” is composed by M.M. Keeravaani and its lyrics are by Chandrabose. Singers Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava made their Oscars debut performing the song.
“RRR has to win, pride of every Indian … and has put me at the top of the world,” M.M. Keeravani sang to the tune of The Carpenters’ “Top of the World” while accepting the award alongside Chandrabose.
“Naatu Naatu” and “RRR” have had a fantastic run in the international awards market; it won the Best Song and Best Film, respectively, at the Critics Choice Movie Awards in January. “Naatu Naatu” also bagged the Best Original Golden Globe trophy.
The Annual Academy Awards are taking place in Hollywood, California.