CM Revanth announces Rs 1 crore cash prize for ‘Naatu Naatu’ singer Rahul Sipligunj

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has announced a cash prize of Rs 1 crore to singer Rahul Sipligunj, who gained global fame for singing the Oscar-winning song Naatu Naatu from RRR.

Announcement made during Bonalu

The chief minister announced on Sunday during the Bonalu festival celebrations in Hyderabad’s Old City. He noted that Rahul Sipligunj, who hails from the old city, earned international recognition through his performance.

Promise made before elections

In May 2023, as the then president of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee, Revanth Reddy had announced a Rs 10 lakh reward for Rahul Sipligunj on behalf of the Congress party.

He had also promised that the singer would be honoured with Rs 1 crore prize money once Congress came to power, recognising the pride he brought to Telangana.

Recognition of hard work

The chief minister said Rahul Sipligunj, who rose to fame through sheer hard work, is an inspiration for the youth of Telangana.

Last month, during the Gaddar Telangana Film Awards ceremony, Revanth Reddy reiterated his promise to Sipligunj and assured that the State government would make an announcement soon.

Historic Oscar win

The ‘Naatu Naatu’ song won the Best Original Song award at the 95th Academy Awards, making history as the first Indian feature film track to win an Oscar.

The song was composed by MM Keeravaani with lyrics by Chandrabose and sung by Kala Bhairava and Rahul Sipligunj. Both singers performed the track live at the Oscar ceremony, earning a standing ovation.