‘A historic moment for Indian dance’
Dancer and actress Lauren Gottlieb says performing on the electrifying track “Naatu Naatu” from the blockbuster RRR at the 95th Academy Awards was not just a career highlight, but a powerful moment that significantly amplified global awareness and appreciation for Indian dance and culture.
Speaking to IANS about the impact of her Oscars performance, Lauren said, “Visibility is everything. As massive as Bollywood already is, with its global reach and dedicated audience, there are still so many people who hadn’t experienced something like RRR or Naatu Naatu until that moment.”
She continued, “So to bring that energy, that culture, and that kind of Indian dance to the Oscars stage was a huge visual treat for anyone seeing it for the first time.”
Lauren also reflected on Naatu Naatu making history by winning Best Original Song at the 2023 Academy Awards. “And the fact that Naatu Naatu won Best Original Song? That was such a powerful, historic moment. I couldn’t be more proud to have been part of it,” she said. “It felt like a real shift in recognition for Indian cinema and dance, and I hope it opens the door even wider for more stories, more artists, and more celebration of our culture on global platforms.”
Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, RRR is an epic action drama that reimagines the lives of Indian freedom fighters Komaram Bheem and Alluri Sitarama Raju. The film stars NTR Jr. and Ram Charan in the lead roles, with Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, Shriya Saran, and Olivia Morris rounding out the ensemble. With its sweeping storytelling, explosive action, and unforgettable music, the film has earned a devoted global fanbase — and “Naatu Naatu” remains its most iconic and internationally celebrated moment.
