If there is one football anthem that is instantly recognisable even decades after it was first released, it’s Waka Waka (This Time for Africa). The song, composed and sung by Shakira, remains a part of
playlists across the globe even today. The catchy lyrics and foot-tapping beats are instantly recognisable to fans and instantly uplift their mood. Now, a video showing a group of Rajasthani musicians performing the track, with a desi twist, has gone viral.
The video has delighted desi users, who found it a perfect example of two different musical cultures mixing together.
Rajasthan Musicians Sing Waka Waka
The clip shows a group of musicians, in traditional Rajasthan wear, crooning Waka Waka. The group, sitting inside a bus, manages to sing the iconic hit perfectly with only traditional musical instruments providing the beat. In the middle of the performance, they change the lyrics a bit, adding the phrases “Khamma Ghani” and “Welcome to Rajasthan”.
The text over the video read, “Who knew Shakira’s Waka Waka would turn into a full-on “Khamma Ghani, Welcome to Rajasthan” moment.”
How Did The Internet React?
Instagram users were impressed by the clip. “Shakira after eating dal bati,” wrote one account. Another tagged Shakira and asked the musician to collaborate with the group.
“Padharo mhare des afrobeat update,” another account quipped.
“Rajasthanis do everything,” a comment read.
“As someone whose dad chose Jaipur as his hometown, this gives me so many feelings…” a user remarked.
Another posted, “2026 India FIFA cup.”
When Was Waka Waka Released?
The song was put out before the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Over the years, it has emerged as one of the most famous football World Cup tracks. The song was co-written by Shakira and John Hill and inspired by a Cameroonian song titled Zangalewa by Golden Sounds.
As per Koimoi, the Cameroonian track was part satire and part parody of a military march.
Another Viral Video Inspired By Shakira
Shakira’s tracks continue to dominate the musical scenes, be it via Instagram reels or party playlists. Last year, the video of a woman from Rajasthan grooving to Hips Don’t Lie caught the attention of viewers. Wearing a red saree and with her ghunghat still in place, the woman showed off her dancing skills, managing to impress users.
The clips prove that Shakira’s music continues to serve as a musical inspiration for people even decades after its release. Be it Rajasthan or Rome, the lively tracks crooned by the Colombian pop diva manage to get attention. The songs prove that music can cross all language and cultural barriers, mesmerising and energising people around the globe.
