Decades-Old Odia Song ‘Chhi Chhi Chhi Re Nani’ Captivates Global Audiences
A song from Odisha, India, titled ‘Chhi Chhi Chhi Re Nani,’ has recently experienced a remarkable resurgence, captivating listeners worldwide. Originally composed in the early 1990s, this Koraputia track has transcended regional boundaries, finding enthusiastic audiences as far as Kuwait.
Origins and Initial Reception
‘Chhi Chhi Chhi Re Nani’ was composed in 1991 and recorded in 1992 by the late Satya Narayan Adhikari, a lawyer and passionate promoter of Koraput’s tribal music. The song narrates a poignant tale of love and betrayal, where a devoted man returns home to find his beloved engaged to another. Despite its heartfelt lyrics and melody, the song did not gain significant attention upon its initial release.
Unexpected Viral Revival
Over two decades later, the song has unexpectedly gone viral. Social media platforms are flooded with short-form videos featuring ‘Chhi Chhi Chhi Re Nani,’ and a recent video showcases a band in Kuwait performing the song, highlighting its international appeal. This global recognition underscores the universal language of music and its ability to connect people across cultures.
Calls for Posthumous Recognition
The song’s renewed popularity has sparked discussions about honoring its creator. Jeypore MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati has urged the Odisha Assembly to recommend a posthumous Padma Shri award for Satya Narayan Adhikari, acknowledging his significant contributions to tribal music. Bahinipati emphasized that the song has garnered over 3 crore views on social media in the past month, reaching a global audience.
A Testament to Timeless Art
The resurgence of ‘Chhi Chhi Chhi Re Nani’ serves as a testament to the timeless nature of art. It highlights how a song, despite initial obscurity, can find its audience years later, resonating with listeners worldwide. This phenomenon also showcases the power of social media in reviving and promoting cultural heritage, ensuring that traditional art forms continue to inspire and connect people across the globe.
As ‘Chhi Chhi Chhi Re Nani’ continues to enchant new listeners, it stands as a reminder of the enduring power of music and its ability to transcend time and geography.
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