Mumbai-born Malayali choreographer Rajit Dev has made history by becoming the first Indian to choreograph an official FIFA World Cup anthem. He directed the high-energy choreography for “Siir Siir”, one of 18 tracks featured on the FIFA World Cup 2026 album.
The project features an international lineup including Bollywood performer Nora Fatehi, French singer-songwriter Vegedream and music producer Sanjoy, marking a major global collaboration in the sports and music space.
The milestone, highlighted by Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No.1 Radio Station, has been widely recognised as a significant breakthrough for Indian choreographers on the world stage.
Though born and raised in Mumbai, Dev has strong family roots in Shoranur, Kerala. He began dancing in childhood and trained in Bharatanatyam, a classical foundation that continues to influence his precision and movement style.
Filmed in Morocco, the music video also served as a platform for Dev to showcase his Indian dance crew, Team RDX, bringing Indian talent to a global audience.
The opportunity stemmed from his long-standing professional association with Nora Fatehi, with whom he has collaborated for nearly a decade. Dev credited Fatehi for bringing him on board after she joined the FIFA project, describing their partnership as one that has consistently pushed creative boundaries.
He has previously choreographed hit tracks such as “Coco”, “Bijlee Bijlee” and “Baarish Ki Jaaye”. Calling the FIFA anthem a “goosebump moment”, Dev said it fulfilled both his childhood passion for football and his artistic journey in dance.
The production faced major logistical challenges during filming in a Moroccan stadium, where the team was given only a 15-minute window on the pitch. Dev said the crew overcame this by carefully pre-planning and rehearsing all movements outside the stadium to ensure flawless execution within the limited time.
He also praised his collaboration with Vegedream, noting the experience of working with international talent as a highlight of the project.
Dev intentionally infused Indian energy into the choreography by incorporating Team RDX, ensuring a strong “desi soul” within the global sports anthem. He said his approach is guided by instinct and music, and the choreography was designed to match the high-energy spirit of the World Cup.
Calling the achievement a defining milestone, Dev said it reinforced his belief that Indian dancers can excel globally when given the opportunity, adding that working with his own team made the experience even more meaningful.
