Exclusive: I’m going to surprise fans in Hyderabad with Naatu Naatu: Rema

Nigerian singing sensation Divine Ikubor, professionally known by his stage name Rema, will soon perform in India, including Hyderabad. While he’s also performing in Delhi and Mumbai, he has something extra special in store for fans here. He will not just be performing his hit number Calm Down but also our very own Oscar-winning Naatu Naatu from RRR.
“I’ve heard so much about Naatu Naatu being a craze in India that I want to surprise my fans in Hyderabad,” he exclusively tells Hyderabad Times, adding, “I believe the way forward in music is cross cultural collaboration. I love to merge Indian sounds and dance with Afrobeat, so I will be adding a personal touch to the dance number.”
In fact, Rema wanted ample time to rehearse for the number, so he arrived in India three days in advance with his team. Apparently, he wanted to rehearse with the full band and also soak in the local culture of the country, apart from integrating homegrown elements into his show. Which is why, he also opted to be styled by a famous Indian designer.
But what's really got him pumped up is the fact that he'll get to try the famous Hyderabadi biryani. “I heard so much about the biryani; I can't wait to try it. I also want to go sightseeing, visit the Falaknuma Palace," says Rema, adding, "I’ve heard so many great things about the Indian film and music industry. Personally though, I’m a massive fan of AR Rahman and his music.”