Soubin Shahir Steals the Spotlight in ‘Coolie’ Song “Monica” – A Dance Spectacle That’s Setting Screens Ablaze!!

In the ever-evolving world of Indian cinema, few moments are as culturally electrifying as the release of a high-octane dance number in a star-studded film. With Lokesh Kanagaraj’s upcoming magnum opus Coolie, nearing its much-anticipated August 14 release, the newly unveiled second single, “Monica,” has ignited widespread excitement. Featuring Pooja Hegde in her signature glamour mode and—unexpectedly—Malayalam cinema’s Soubin Shahir as the breakout dance phenomenon, the song is making waves far beyond linguistic or regional boundaries.

From its arresting visuals to an addictive musical composition by Anirudh Ravichander, “Monica” is more than just a song—it’s a masterstroke of contemporary marketing, casting innovation, and cinematic flair.

Setting the Stage: The Context Behind Coolie

Coolie is one of the most awaited pan-Indian films of 2025. Headlined by legendary superstar Rajinikanth, with major supporting roles from Nagarjuna and Aamir Khan, the film is poised to redefine the contours of Tamil cinema. Helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, a director celebrated for pushing genre boundaries, Coolie represents not just a return to mass entertainers but also a bold foray into rich narrative terrain.

Following the chart-topping success of the first single “Chikitu,” anticipation for the second track was sky-high. “Monica” delivers—and then some.

Anirudh Ravichander’s Sonic Signature

Music director Anirudh Ravichander is no stranger to hit tracks, and with “Monica,” he once again proves why he’s among the most dynamic composers in India. The song is a pulsating mix of EDM-inspired beats and local percussive grooves, masterfully blended to capture both urban youth and mass cinema audiences.

The vocals—by Anirudh himself along with Subhalakshmi—are further enriched by a blazing rap segment from Asal Kolaar, while Vishnu Edavan’s lyrics maintain a high-energy, flirtatious vibe that pairs perfectly with the visuals.

The result? A track that is instantly replayable, irresistibly danceable, and virally shareable.

Pooja Hegde: Grace Meets Glamour

It would be remiss not to begin with Pooja Hegde, the designated show-stealer of the track. Clad in a bold, fiery red costume with a thigh-high slit and shimmering embellishments, Hegde radiates glamour. Her choreography—intense, stylish, and well-synced—demonstrates both her physical agility and commitment to screen presence.

In a song that demanded confidence and control, Hegde delivers both with ease. Her dance moves are an effortless blend of contemporary style and classical poise, underscoring why she continues to remain a go-to choice for such high-profile numbers.

Critics have noted that Hegde’s charm anchors the track. She brings an undeniable magnetism, ensuring that the camera lingers, even when surrounded by a sea of background dancers and a busy visual frame.

Enter Soubin Shahir: The Unexpected Firecracker

But in a plot twist few saw coming, the real show-stealer is Soubin Shahir—a name associated with deeply human, often understated characters in Malayalam cinema. From Sudani from Nigeria to Kumbalangi Nights and Manjummel Boys, Soubin has built a reputation on nuanced storytelling and subtle performances.

With “Monica,” he sheds that skin entirely.

His entrance is electric. Sporting a flamboyant look that contrasts sharply with his usual subdued roles, Soubin grooves with a spontaneity and rhythm that are infectious. His dancing—raw, energetic, and uninhibited—surprised many who were unfamiliar with this side of his artistry.

What makes Soubin’s performance particularly compelling is its sincerity. He doesn’t try to emulate traditional dance heroes. Instead, he moves with the confidence of someone enjoying the moment. That authenticity is precisely what has endeared him to viewers and turned him into a social media sensation overnight.

Direction & Choreography: The Lokesh-Sandy Magic

Director Lokesh Kanagaraj has consistently demonstrated a keen understanding of scale and mood, and in “Monica,” that cinematic sensibility is evident. The setting—a cargo ship lit with moody neon hues—offers a gritty, industrial backdrop that juxtaposes perfectly with the dance-driven energy of the number.

The choreography, crafted by Sandy Master, is layered and dynamic. There’s a clear intent to balance style and substance, ensuring both Pooja and Soubin are given moments to shine individually while also contributing to a cohesive ensemble performance.

More importantly, the choreography amplifies character. Pooja’s movements are sleek and commanding, while Soubin’s are playful and unfiltered, reflecting their contrasting cinematic personas.

Visuals, Costume, and Production Design

Cinematographer Girish Gangadharan bathes the music video in saturated tones of red, gold, and steel, creating a surreal, almost music-video-meets-military-zone feel. Costumes are high fashion with utilitarian flair—Pooja’s ensemble, in particular, nods to both sensuality and power.

Every frame pulses with energy. The dancers—numbering in the dozens—are costumed and choreographed with precision, moving in tight formations that bring an international flavor to the number.

Social Media Frenzy: Reels, Memes, and Hashtag Mania

As soon as “Monica” dropped on YouTube and streaming platforms, clips began circulating at a dizzying pace. Within 24 hours, the hashtag #SoubinShahir was trending across South Indian Twitter (now X). Instagram reels featuring Soubin’s hook steps gained thousands of shares, while dance challenge videos began popping up from influencers across India.

Comments flooded in with shock and delight:

“Came for Pooja Hegde. Stayed for Soubin Shahir!”
“Soubin’s out-of-syllabus performance was the twist I didn’t know I needed.”

Even industry insiders chimed in, applauding Kanagaraj for his creative casting and praising Soubin’s boldness.

Cultural Impact and Pan-India Appeal

“Monica” is more than a viral song. It’s a strategic cultural statement. By blending Tamil, Malayalam, and pan-Indian elements, the song makes a strong case for Coolie as a unifying force across regional cinemas.

It also marks a turning point in Soubin’s career. No longer confined to niche performances, he’s now entered the mainstream consciousness as a versatile performer, capable not only of tugging at heartstrings but also commanding the dance floor.

Marketing Brilliance and Box Office Implications

From a promotional standpoint, “Monica” is marketing gold. It builds momentum without revealing too much of the core story, teasing both star power and unexpected treats. The song has also increased visibility for Coolie in non-Tamil markets, especially in Kerala, where Soubin has a significant fan base.

As the film approaches its August 14 release, industry analysts are already predicting a thunderous opening weekend. “Monica” will likely remain in circulation across dance floors, car speakers, and social platforms long after.

Final Thoughts: When Music Becomes Movement

“Monica” is the kind of cinematic experience that reminds us why Indian cinema’s dance numbers remain a global phenomenon. Equal parts spectacle and sincerity, it combines top-tier production with delightful surprise, chiefly the presence of Soubin Shahir, whose performance feels like a breakthrough.

While Pooja Hegde delivers the sizzle we expect, it’s Soubin’s fearless embrace of the unexpected that turns “Monica” into more than just another song—it becomes a moment, a movement, and possibly a turning point in modern Indian dance cinema.

In the words of one fan:

“Sometimes, the soul of a song isn’t where you expect. And sometimes, it’s dancing in red sneakers, laughing like no one’s watching.”