Michael Jackson needs no introduction. Revered as the “King of Pop,” he remains one of the most iconic global superstars in history. But here’s an interesting nugget—veteran filmmaker Puri Jagannadh paid a unique tribute to MJ back in 2009, blending global influence into mainstream Telugu cinema.
In June 2009, the world was shaken by Michael Jackson’s sudden demise due to cardiac arrest. Around the same time, Puri Jagannadh was working on Ek Niranjan, starring Prabhas. Deeply moved by MJ’s legacy, the director reportedly reworked a portion of the film to incorporate a tribute within the narrative structure.
An item song in the second half, titled Nartanatara, was designed to reflect Jackson’s signature style and stage presence. The track carried visual and musical influences inspired by MJ, with Mani Sharma crafting a composition that echoed elements of his iconic sound and rhythm, adding a distinctive flavor.
The tribute stood out as a rare moment where a commercial Indian film acknowledged a global pop legend so directly. It also underlined Puri Jagannadh’s creative instinct to merge international inspiration with local storytelling, making it a subtle yet memorable homage to one of the greatest entertainers ever.