From Rallies to Reels: Kolkata’s Political Catchphrases Groove into Dance Anthems!

A viral trend in Kolkata has emerged, where songs from political contexts, particularly the remix of ‘Hamba Hamba,’ are taking over nightlife. Club-goers at Roots nightclub can be seen dancing to this techno rendition, which mocks Trinamool Congress’s Mamata Banerjee following her party’s electoral defeat in the 2026 West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections. This remix, featuring absurd yet catchy lyrics creatively adapted from the politician’s past speeches, marks a new era in political expression within the local music landscape, turning political jibes into danceable anthems.

The evolution of this genre can be traced back to the 2021 anthem ‘Khela Hobe,’ which laid the foundation for subsequent tracks like ‘Mach Chor’ and ‘File Chor.’ As these songs proliferate on social media platforms, they escape traditional political boundaries and resonate with viewers who may not align with the originating parties. The humorous, accessible lyrics combined with infectious beats allow these remixes to infiltrate the everyday lexicon, making political discourse both relatable and entertaining in everyday settings and social gatherings.

Political commentator Chandril Bhattacharya notes that the rise of these remixes represents a shift from more traditional protest songs to direct and crude political critiques. He highlights their dual ability to express discontent with political leadership while tapping into the digital culture of social media, where ridicule gains traction. As a catchy tune becomes familiar in various social contexts, these songs transform into cultural artifacts that may remain in popular consciousness long after their political sources fade from relevance.