Los Angeles: M M Keeravani's unique acceptance song at the 95th Academy Awards after his song 'Naatu Naatu' won the Oscars for the Best Original Song melted hearts of every Indian across the globe. It became extra special when he sang (the speech) in tune to 'The Carpenters' much loved 1970s song 'Top of the World'.
Days after the win, Richard Carpenter, one-half of Keeravani's childhood favourite 'The Carpenters', shared a reimagined rendition of 'Top of the World', on his official Instagram account, congratulating Keeravaani and 'Naatu Naatu' lyricist Chandrabose on the feat.
"We are on the top of the world for your winning creation and we hope you know how proud of you we are. You are the best there is around and we hope you know it now your win puts us at the top of the world. Congratulations!" the American vocalist sang on the piano with two other singers.
"To @mmkeeravani_official and @chandraboselyricist: Heartfelt congratulations on your win for Best Original Song. Here is a little something from our family to you and yours," Richard Carpenter captioned the video clip.
Keeravani, was blown away, hearing from his idol, saying it was the 'most wonderful gift' from the universe.
During the acceptance speech at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on March 12, Keeravani said, “I grew up listening to The Carpenters and now here I am with the Oscars.”
He then broke into a song, “There was only one wish on my mind, so was Rajamouli's and our families' -- 'RRR' has to win. Pride of every Indian must put me on the top of the world," Keeravaani had said.
SS Rajamouli, 'RRR' director and cousin of Keeravaani, expressed heartfelt gratitude towards Richard Carpenter for the 'memorable' gesture.
"Sir, throughout this Oscar campaign my brother maintained a calm composure. Whether it is before or after he didn't let his emotions out. But, the moment he saw this, he couldn't control the tears rolling down his cheeks... most memorable moment for our family. Thank you so much," Rajamouli wrote in the same post.
The win for Naatu Naatu, Naacho Naacho in Hindi, is the fourth non-English song to win an Oscar in the category and the first song in foreign language since 'Jai Ho' in 2009 to bag the prize.
(with PTI inputs)
