SHANICE HERCULES
A new chutney parang classic has emerged.
“Jing Ah Ling”, the latest offering from celebrated chutney singer Rasika “D Rani” Dindial, has become a viral sensation, capturing the hearts of locals with its charm, humour, and infectious rhythm.
Dindial's song has over 325,000 views on YouTube and 203,000 views on TikTok so far, sparking enthusiasm among people from all over the nation and abroad. Numerous videos depicting fans dancing joyfully to the music or creating humorous renditions have flooded the platforms.
In a recent interview with Newsday, Dindial said, “I’m so happy to see how people happy over that song!”
While she has previously achieved success with other chutney songs, she said this is the first time one of her songs has gone viral on social media.
The YouTube video also has over 200 comments, praising Dindial for her instant hit.
“Every once in a while, a very big tune does appear out of nowhere and blow your mind...this one is definitely it for the Christmas,” one said.
“Chutney with Spanish, English and Hindi with classical music. We reach,” another said.
“This one going down in the books as a classic,” said another.
Her fans also paid tribute to the “Rani” for her work through the years.
“Only the Rani could pull this...well done,” one said.
“Big up Rasika yuh mash it up wit dis chutney parang gul. One of the few remaining legends of original chutney music. Large up yuh self Rani,” said another.
Making “Jing Ah Ling”
Crafted by producer and musician Kishore “Wizzy” Ramdath, this catchy song weaves a narrative around Santa Claus visiting the singer to indulge in some local delicacies, such as curry and dhalpuri, with his arrival heralded by Christmas bells.
Dindial explained that she was inspired to create a wholesome tune for children to sing during Christmas.
With the simple and playful "jing ah ling" hook line, the artiste said she wanted to captivate children's attention and evoke the joy of Christmas. She said the concept for the song had been in her mind for a year before she finally wrote and recorded it.
“Actually, that idea just fly into my brain, and I didn’t even write the song (until) I went to record it.
“It remain in my brain for a year, singing it all the time in my mind, and then I write this.”
Collaborating with Ramdath at his Wizz Studio was a delightful experience, Dindial said.
She commended his talent and professionalism, attributing these qualities to the smooth and successful recording process.
“It’s so joyful to work with Wizzy, so relaxed. And one thing I want to say about Wizzy: when you tell Wizzy you want this done, he does just that!
“He worked together with me, and whatever I direct Wizzy to do, he do just that. So, I want to compliment Wizzy for doing a great job on this production!”
Dindial also had high praise for the contributions of Akash Daniel, the talented young musician responsible for the sounds of the traditional dholak instrument on the track.
For the joy of the children
The song’s success
