Producer Raj Kapoor revealed the reason why Ram Charan and Jr NTR backed out from the live performance of ‘Naatu Naatu’.
After making waves across the international awards circuit, 'Naatu Naatu' picturised on Ram Charan and NTR Jr from the film 'RRR' won the Best Original Song at the 95th Academy Awards. The song left behind names such as Lady Gaga, Diane Warren and Rihanna, thereby making history.
However, at the Oscars 2023, the highlight for ‘Naatu Naatu’ was that the song was performed live with singers, Kaala Bhairava and Rahul Sipligunj. For those caught unaware, Jr NTR and Ram Charan were supposed to groove to the song on stage. However, the two backed out for multiple reasons. Nonetheless, the fans missed Jr NTR and Ram Charan's performances.
But are you aware why the two backed out? Revealing the same, producer Raj Kapoor told The Academy that the two actors didn't feel comfortable recreating the dance on the stage. He said, "Originally, the two leads were going to be the stars of the number alongside the singers Rahul Sipligunj and Kaala Bhairava. The show was very instrumental in helping secure working visas for their team to be able to come to the U.S. to be a part of the performance."
He further mentioned, "In late February, we were informed that Ram Charan and N.T. Rama Rao Jr. would be attending the Oscars, but they did not feel comfortable performing the live number on stage. The change was brought on because of their other professional commitments and the limited amount of time to rehearse. "
Talking about the rehearsals, he added, "The original number was workshopped and rehearsed for two months and was shot over a period of 15 days. The "Naatu Naatu" performance for the Oscars was rehearsed in Los Angeles with professional dancers for a total of 18 hours of rehearsal and one 90-minute camera blocking."
Producer Raj Kapoor, who has been associated with the Academy for years now, worked with the creative team of ‘RRR’ for the live performance of ‘Naatu Naatu’ at the Oscars 2023.