Interview: Golden Globe-winning composer M. M. Keeravani on the Wild Popularity of “Naatu Naatu” and Scoring ‘RRR’ [VIDEO]

M. M. Keeravani is a newly-minted Golden Globe winner for the song “Naatu Naatu” from the international hit RRR, and his song is on the corresponding Oscar shortlist. He’s also the composer for all the music in the film, which marks his twelfth collaboration with director S. S. Rajamouli, who happens to be his cousin. Now, both the song and the film have attracted global attention and are on an exciting collision course with awards season.

We spoke with Keeravani about conceiving the song and then seeing it on screen after the addition of choreography and the impressive dancing work of stars N. T. Rama Rao Jr. and Ram Charan. He offered his take on whether it’s better to have the English translation of the song lyrics on during the performance of “Naatu Naatu” and why he thinks RRR has crossed the boundary of international success.

RRR is currently streaming on Netflix and playing in select theaters.