The promotional song “AFRO Tapanga” from the upcoming Kannada multistarrer film “45” has been released through Anand Audio. The song features Uganda’s internationally popular dance group Ghetto Kids, who gained global attention from performances on international platforms including Britain’s Got Talent and worldwide music collaborations.
In the video, Shivarajkumar, Upendra and Raj B Shetty are seen performing along with them, and the portions where the actors execute their popular trademark dance steps have already begun trending among fans on social media.
Directed by music director Arjun Janya in his filmmaking debut and produced by M. Ramesh Reddy under the Suraj Productions banner, “45” has been in focus since its launch and is scheduled for a theatrical release on December 25. The song was launched on Kannada Rajyotsava day at a media event.
Producer M. Ramesh Reddy stated that “AFRO Tapanga” was specifically created as a promotional song. He confirmed that the Ghetto Kids have arrived in India for the first time to be part of a song and that “45” marks their debut appearance in an Indian movie. He said the team ensured the song was made without shortcomings and expressed that the film is set for release on December 25 with expectations of audience support.
Director Arjun Janya said that he stepped into direction because of Shivarajkumar’s encouragement. He explained that the film does not contain regular songs, and therefore the team decided to create a unique promotional track. Noticing the potential fit of the Ghetto Kids for the concept, efforts were taken to collaborate with them. The song was written and sung by M. C. Bijju, with Johnny Master handling the choreography.
Shivarajkumar said that all three leads — himself, Upendra and Raj B Shetty — have equal importance in the narrative and mentioned that he had asked Arjun Janya to direct the film after hearing the story. Raj B Shetty shared that he has followed the film closely from the start and expressed that working alongside the two senior Kannada actors he admired while growing up is a meaningful moment for him.
VFX head Yash Shetty explained that their company from Canada has worked on several Hollywood films, and “45” is the first Kannada and first Indian film for which they are providing VFX services. Cinematographer Satya Hegde also spoke about the visual direction of the film.
With the combination of a multistar cast, Ghetto Kids’ involvement, a Hollywood-associated VFX team, and a festive release window, “45” continues to hold industry and audience attention ahead of its December 25 release.