Japan’s ‘zen’ response to Daler Mehndi’s iconic 'Tunak Tunak Tun'

In a delightful display of global music appreciation, Daler Mehndi’s iconic 90s hit “Tunak Tunak Tun” has found an unexpected yet enthusiastic audience in Japan.

Videos circulating online show a Japanese crowd not just listening, but ‘calmly’ grooving to the infectious Punjabi beats, proving that music truly has no borders.

At the World Expo in Osaka, Japan, a Punjabi singer performed the popular number. It was ultimately the unexpected reaction of the audience that has everyone talking. Instead of hooting, whistling or dancing wildly, the people can be seen sitting and enjoying themselves rather calmly. They were smiling and gently clapping to the music. This respectful response grabbed everyone’s attention.

The video was posted on X (formerly Twitter) by a user named Jahazi. He captioned it saying, “Japanese log Punjabi songs pe bhi itne civilised way mein vibe karte hain (Japanese people vibe to Punjabi songs in a civilised manner.)”

“Most civilised country for a reason,” a user commented.

Another said, “They are not loud, but they’re present – that’s the beauty of it.”

“The calmest flash mob I’ve ever seen” said another.

The cultural crossover is a heartwarming reminder that how a catchy tune can unite people from vastly different backgrounds in a shared moment of joy.