Still from the song ‘Naatu Naatu’ from RRR

After years of Indian cinema not being recognised at the Academy Awards, Indians were elated to learn of the historic double win at the coveted ceremony this year.

The song ‘Naatu Naatu’ from Tollywood blockbuster film ‘RRR’, won best original song, beating well-known names like Rihanna and Lady Gaga. The song featuring power-packed dance steps was also performed live in front of the audience in Los Angeles. It became the second Indian song to be performed at the Oscars, with first being ‘Jai Ho’ from the 2009 film ‘Slumdog Millionaire’.

Additionally, ‘The Elephant Whisperers’, directed by Indian documentary filmmaker and photographer Kartiki Gonsalves won the best documentary short film.

Composer M.M. Keeravani, who is behind the song ‘Naatu Naatu’, said backstage at the ceremony, “For the world, particularly the western world, folks are more on India and Asian music. It’s just long due. I feel very happy to open doors and the world to embrace my culture.”

RRR, which is short for Rise, Roar, Revolt, tells the story of two Indian friends who fight against the British rule in the 1920s, in particular, a ‘villainous’ governor and his equally despicable wife.

India’s prime minister Narendra Modi tweeted: “Exceptional! The popularity of ‘Naatu Naatu’ is global. It will be a song that will be remembered for years to come … India is elated and proud.”

Opposition Congress Party president Mallikarjan Kharge also tweeted: “We join millions of Indians in rejoicing at the great news … Thank you for bringing so much joy and happiness to India’.

‘The Elephant Whisperers’ made by two women – Kartiki Gonsalves and Guneet Monga features the story of a poor Tamil couple and relationship with a baby elephant named Raghu. In an Instagram post, Gonsalves said, “Tonight is historic as this is the first ever Oscar for an Indian production.”