Rihanna's Mumbai slang game is surprisingly strong, goes 'kadak' in viral video

Pop star Rihanna added a distinctly local twist to her Mumbai visit over the weekend, and the internet can’t seem to get enough of it. Videos of the singer trying her hand at Marathi slang, with surprising ease, quickly made the rounds online, becoming one of the most talked-about moments from her trip.

In a clip shared by an influencer, Rihanna is seen picking up everyday Mumbai phrases on cue. She begins with “Kasa kai Mumbai” – a casual “What’s up, Mumbai?” – before confidently repeating words like “ekdum jhakkaas”, “phataka” and “kadak”.

Each line lands with a mix of curiosity and playful confidence, as the singer leans into the lesson and clearly enjoys the exchange. At one point, the influencer tells her, “You killed it,” and, honestly, it’s hard to disagree.

Watch the viral clip here:

Another video from the same visit shows Rihanna stepping out briefly to ask how to say “thank you” in Hindi. Moments later, she returns to fans with a cheerful “Shukriya!”, earning an instant reaction from those gathered around. It’s a small moment, but one that struck a chord online – simple, warm, and very Rihanna.

Watch the clip here:

The singer was in Mumbai for the launch of her beauty brand’s new store, Fenty Beauty Ki Haveli. Beyond the official event, her itinerary included a series of high-profile and cultural stops.

She met influencer Orry and other digital creators, and later attended a gathering at Antilia, the residence of Mukesh Ambani and his family. There, she joined in a puja ceremony, participated in an aarti, and took part in Phoolon Ki Holi – swapping colours for flower petals and, fittingly, dancing along.

This marks Rihanna’s return to Mumbai after her visit in 2024 for the wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant – a trip that also generated significant buzz.