If you've had the distinct pleasure of watching (or rewatching) S.S. Rajamouli's mind-blowing "Rrr," you might agree that the "Naatu Naatu" dance sequence hits different. "Rrr" brims with heartfelt spectacle and over-the-top action that works seamlessly with gorgeous visuals, but this particular dance number cements a climactic moment in the arcs of Raju (Ram Charan) and Bheem (N.T. Rama Rao Jr.). I remember watching "Rrr" with a packed audience in Delhi, India, and the dance number was met with chaotic, energized hoots and people attempting to perform the "hook-step" from their seats. This kind of theater-wide reaction to "Naatu Naatu" isn't surprising in the least. The song is a certified banger and allows the characters of Raju and Bheem to zestfully further their connected arcs.

Dance numbers are a staple aspect of Tollywood, along with other major language-based film industries in India, including Bollywood and Kollywood. Dance is inextricably...