Aishwarya Rai's song "Nimbuda Nimbuda" appears in a 5th-grade textbook; Education Department's bizarre handling of the issue sparks debate
- bySudha Saxena
- 30 Jun, 2026
New controversies often arise regarding school textbooks. Meanwhile, a recent incident in Odisha has shocked everyone. A very popular Bollywood song has been included in the Class 5 English textbook used in the state's schools. The famous song "Nimbuda Nimbuda" from superstar Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Salman Khan's blockbuster film "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam" has now become a part of the children's syllabus, sparking controversy.
People are expressing their displeasure on social media
, questioning why such film songs are being included in books for young children instead of poems or educational text. The Education Department and the book's publishers are facing severe criticism on social media. At the same time, some believe that giving the education system such a "Bollywood touch" is detrimental to children's mental development and moral values.
How did this unique incident come to light?
This was noticed by the parents of a student studying in a government school in Odisha. While flipping through the pages of their Class 5 workbook (practice book), they found the lyrics to the song "Nimbuda Nimbuda." In this particular case, instead of folk songs or poems, the lyrics were from a commercial Bollywood song. Shocked and upset, the parent took a photo of the page and shared it on social media. The post quickly went viral and garnered numerous reactions.
The Odisha Education
Department was thrown into a tizzy after the incident surfaced. Following an initial investigation and growing controversy, officials distanced themselves from the matter and placed the blame squarely on private publishers. The department clarified that the book is not part of the curriculum prescribed by the state government or authorized board; it is a supplementary workbook used in certain schools and published by a private organization. The administration has promised strict action against the school and publisher involved.
Is 'Bollywood Tadka' right for school curriculum?
This incident has raised questions about book review and quality control in the Indian education system. Primary school children should be taught moral values, biographies of great people, and folk culture at this age. If film songs like "Nimbuda Nimbuda" are added to books to make them more attractive, it could have a negative impact on children's language and thinking.
PC: RochaK Khabre





