The Arabic hip-hop track "FA9LA" by Bahraini rapper Hussam Aseem, known as Flipperachi, has become a global sensation after being featured in Aditya Dhar's film Dhurandhar. The song's journey from the Gulf rap scene to Bollywood has been nothing short of remarkable, especially after it was used in a memorable scene featuring Akshaye Khanna.
"FA9LA" was already a hit when it was released in 2024, gaining considerable popularity in Sri Lanka. However, its inclusion in Dhurandhar catapulted it to new heights, sparking a meme-to-reel explosion across the Indian internet. Flipperachi expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming response, particularly from India. He noted that the team behind Dhurandhar reached out to him specifically for the song, and the placement and orchestration of the music within the film were executed perfectly.
The scene in question features Akshaye Khanna making his entry as the menacing Rehman Dakait. The aggressive and rhythmic vibe of "FA9LA" complements Khanna's character and the gritty Lyari (Karachi) setting of the film. The song's energy and the actor's compelling presence created a powerful cinematic moment.
What makes this even more interesting is the story behind Akshaye Khanna's dance moves in the scene. According to the choreographer, Vijay Ganguly, the dance was entirely spontaneous. Originally, the scene was meant to be a simple entry, with Khanna walking to his seat. However, inspired by the mood and the dancers, Khanna decided to improvise, adding his own touch to the scene. His impromptu steps resonated with the audience, becoming a viral trend.
Flipperachi himself was thrilled with the reception of "FA9LA" and the way it was incorporated into Dhurandhar. He described watching the scene for the first time as "surreal," praising Akshaye Khanna as a legend and expressing his excitement at seeing Ranveer Singh, the film's star, sharing the scene with the song on Instagram.
The success of "FA9LA" has not only boosted Flipperachi's career but has also introduced Khaleeji hip-hop to a wider audience. This genre blends traditional Arabic instruments with modern hip-hop beats, often reflecting Arabic culture and lifestyle. The song's popularity has led to Flipperachi topping Spotify's "Viral 50 Global" list, a testament to its widespread appeal.
The impact of "FA9LA" extends beyond its catchy tune and Akshaye Khanna's captivating performance. It represents a cultural moment, bridging the gap between the Gulf rap scene and Bollywood. The song's success highlights the power of music to enhance storytelling and create unforgettable cinematic experiences. Flipperachi is also considering potential collaborations with Indian artists.
