TNI Editorial: “Nimbuda… Nimbuda… Nimbuda…” instantly reminds millions of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, one of Bollywood’s most iconic films. But in Odisha, the song has found itself at the centre of a textbook controversy after being included under the chapter on Rajasthani Music. There is nothing objectionable about the folk song, which has its roots in Rajasthan. The problem lies in the selection.

School textbooks should introduce students to authentic folk traditions and cultural classics, not songs popularised by Bollywood. Rajasthan’s rich musical heritage offers countless better examples. Such choices reflect poor academic judgment and undermine the credibility of textbook preparation.