From Zingaat to Chandra: Marathi songs that get everyone moving and why their hook steps stuck |
Marathi cinema has given the world not just memorable stories but irresistible songs that define celebrations, weddings and viral hook steps. From energetic beats that make every shoulder shimmy to graceful lavani sequences, these tracks are etched in pop culture and on dance floors everywhere.
Zingaat (from Sairat)
There’s hardly a Marathi party without Zingaat. Composed and written by the musical duo Ajay-Atul and sung by Ajay Gogavale and Atul Gogavale, this high-voltage track from Nagraj Manjule’s Sairat became a nationwide sensation for its pounding rhythm and easy-to-join hookstep.
The dance move — lively, free-spirited hand and shoulder motions synced with the beat — is loved everywhere, from college festivals to wedding sangeets. The song’s picturisation featuring Akash Thosar and Rinku Rajguru adds to its mass appeal, showcasing youthful abandon that makes every viewer want to get up and dance.
Ugavali Shukrachi Chandani (from De Dhakka)
One of the lesser-talked yet culturally rich entries, Ugavali Shukrachi Chandani is a folk-lavani song sung by Arati Ankalikar Tikekar with music composed by Ajay-Atul-Sameer and lyrics by Shrirang Godbole and Abhijeet Deshpande. It features Gauri Vaidya in its visuals from the film De Dhakka and won Ankalikar the Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer.
The dance here isn’t a fast-paced hookstep like Zingaat — instead, it’s rooted in folk elegance and rhythmic lavani moves that cue expressive storytelling through footwork and gestures. Perfect for classical-inspired dance showcases, this track captures the soul of Marathi folk traditions while still being a hit on stage and cultural programmes.
Apsara Aali (from Natarang)
A classic example of Marathi lavani done right, Apsara Aali blends folk rhythm with cinematic flair. Composed by Ajay-Atul, sung by Bela Shende, and choreographed around traditional lavani steps, this song is visually carried by Sonalee Kulkarni on screen.
The hookstep here is less about frenetic motion and more about controlled, graceful classical styling — fans often mimic the elegant hand gestures and rhythmic footwork in group or solo performances.
Dolby Walya (from Jaundya Na Balasaheb)
When it comes to pure dancefloor energy, Dolby Walya checks all boxes. Sung by Nagesh Morwekar and Earl Edgar with rap inflections, and composed by Ajay-Atul, the track’s pulsating beat and cheeky lyrics make it perfect for celebratory group steps.
Though not a traditional dance number, its hook — Dolby walya bolaav majhya DJ la — naturally invites a bounce, clap, spin style movement that can quickly unite a party crowd.
Wajle Ki Bara (from Natarang)
Another lavani gem from Natarang, Wajle Ki Bara is composed by Ajay-Atul and sung by Bela Shende with lyrics by Guru Thakur.
Picturised on Amruta Khanvilkar, the hookstep here is both traditional and electrifying. The rhythmic footwork, expressive hips and confident stance make it a crowd favourite, especially during cultural events and festive gatherings.
Kombdi Palali (from Jatra)
Though often mentioned alongside Bollywood’s similar hits, Kombdi Palali is a Marathi original that gets everyone clapping and bouncing. This upbeat number composed by Ajay-Atul and featured in the film Jatra — starring Bharat Jadhav and Kranti Redkar — has become a go-to for celebratory dances.
Its playful rhythm and repetitive chorus encourage simple shoulder sways and foot taps — perfect for group choreography or casual reels.
Chandra (from Chandramukhi)
Chandra is a more recent addition to the Marathi songbook, composed by Ajay-Atul and sung by Shreya Ghoshal. The track was picturised on Amruta Khanvilkar alongside Adinath Kothare, and its modern lavani aesthetic has been widely praised.
While not traditionally a “hookstep track,” the expressive lavani steps from this video have inspired countless social-media renditions focused on graceful, rhythmic leg and hand movements.
