The song “Naatu Naatu” from the blockbuster film RRR has captivated audiences worldwide, earning prestigious awards, including the Oscar and Golden Globe. But the journey to create this iconic song was far from easy. From securing a unique location in Ukraine to choreographing intricate dance moves, the making of “Naatu Naatu” is a story of dedication, precision, and creativity.
Recently, the Mariinsky Palace in Ukraine, where the song was filmed, made headlines again when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the site. The palace, which serves as the residence of Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, was the backdrop for the high-energy dance number that has since become a global sensation.
Securing the Iconic Location: Mariinsky Palace
In 2021, while the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, director SS Rajamouli, known for his grand cinematic vision, was busy planning the shoot for RRR. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Rajamouli’s determination led him and his team to Ukraine, where they sought permission to shoot in front of the Mariinsky Palace. This palace, rich in history and grandeur, provided the perfect backdrop for “Naatu Naatu.”
Before the Russia-Ukraine war, Ukraine was a popular destination for filmmakers due to its picturesque locations and architectural marvels. Rajamouli received crucial support from members of the Ukrainian President’s Office and Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, who facilitated the shoot. Even President Volodymyr Zelensky, a former television actor, gave his nod to the project. Over the course of two weeks, the team shot the song at various locations, including the Mariinsky Palace, Mezhyhirya Park, and Victoria Film Studio.
The Making of “Naatu Naatu”: 20 Days, 43 Retakes, and 110 Dance Moves
The song “Naatu Naatu” was composed by the renowned MM Keeravani, with choreography by Prem Rakshit. The song, featuring the film’s lead actors Ram Charan and Jr NTR, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, with its energetic dance steps going viral across social media.
Choreographer Prem Rakshit faced a daunting task: creating a dance routine that would not only showcase the talents of two major stars but also synchronize their distinct styles. The song required 110 unique dance moves to achieve the perfect balance of energy and coordination between Ram Charan and Jr NTR. Despite its seemingly effortless appearance, the leg-shaking step that became synonymous with the song was incredibly challenging to execute.
Rakshit revealed that it took about two months of behind-the-scenes preparation before the choreography was finalized. The goal was to ensure that both stars were equally highlighted throughout the performance, a task that added immense pressure. Rakshit, who has worked with SS Rajamouli for many years, admitted that he was initially nervous about bringing together two superstars in one dance sequence.
The Challenge of Shooting “Naatu Naatu”
The actual filming of “Naatu Naatu” was an intense process. The shoot spanned 20 days, during which the team completed 43 retakes to capture the perfect shots. Each day, the filming would begin early in the morning, and by 6 PM, the two actors would start rehearsing. Their practice sessions would last until 9 PM, ensuring that every move was flawless.
Despite the rigorous schedule, the actors and crew were determined to deliver a memorable performance. Jr NTR even described the experience as “torture,” explaining that the physically demanding routine pushed them to their limits. The song was filmed during the last phase of the movie, and by the 21st and 22nd days, the team had perfected the choreography.
SS Rajamouli’s insistence on realism meant that the actors had to truly immerse themselves in the emotions of the scene, even to the point of creating a sense of rivalry between them for the duration of the shoot. The result was a dynamic and powerful performance that captivated audiences worldwide.
The Global Impact of “Naatu Naatu”
When “Naatu Naatu” was finally released, it became an instant hit, not just in India but globally. The song’s infectious rhythm and innovative choreography caught the attention of fans and celebrities alike. Social media was flooded with recreations of the dance steps, further cementing the song’s status as a cultural milestone.
The song’s success culminated in its recognition on the world stage, with “Naatu Naatu” winning prestigious awards such as the Golden Globe and the Oscar. These accolades not only honored the song itself but also highlighted the hard work and creativity of everyone involved in its making.
The making of “Naatu Naatu” is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and collaboration. From securing a unique filming location in Ukraine to choreographing one of the most challenging dance sequences in Indian cinema, the journey to create this iconic song was as remarkable as the final product. As “Naatu Naatu” continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, its story serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion that go into creating truly memorable art.
