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Mithun Chakraborty's Soviet-era stardom endures as Russian TV appearance goes viral

A video of actor Mithun Chakraborty dancing to his 1982 hit 'Jimmi Jimmi Aaja Aaja' on a Russian television show has revived memories of the disco era icon's surprising popularity across the former Soviet Union.

LSN India · 7 October 2026

Mithun Chakraborty's Soviet-era stardom endures as Russian TV appearance goes viral

Mithun Chakraborty's enduring appeal in Russia has been reignited following a viral video showing the veteran Bollywood actor dancing to his signature song on a Russian television programme. The appearance brought back nostalgic memories of the actor's unexpected stardom in the Soviet Union, where 'Disco Dancer' and his other films achieved cult status during the 1980s.

The video, which has circulated widely on social media, shows Chakraborty performing to 'Jimmi Jimmi Aaja Aaja', the iconic track that became synonymous with his career during that era. Despite the Soviet Union's dissolution decades ago, the actor's popularity in the region has remained surprisingly resilient, with the recent footage demonstrating his continued recognition among Russian audiences.

Chakraborty's films, particularly 'Disco Dancer', found unexpected success across Soviet territories at a time when access to Hindi cinema was limited. The actor's high-energy dancing style and energetic performances captured audiences' imagination, establishing a fan following that has persisted through subsequent generations in Russia and former Soviet states.

The viral moment underscores the lasting cultural impact of Indian cinema in Eastern Europe during the Cold War period and highlights how certain entertainers transcend geographical and temporal boundaries to maintain relevance across decades and changing political landscapes.