Filmmaker and content creator Reneel Singh has recently unveiled his debut single, “Jungli,” marking the culmination of a two-year creative journey. The New Zealand-based artist, whose parents hail from Fiji, described the creation of “Jungli” as an adventure that springs from his passion for Fiji Indian culture rather than a music background.
Reneel shared that his deep connections to Fiji have shaped his identity, noting that his father is from Nadi and his mother from Lautoka. His parents moved to New Zealand before his birth, and he grew up in Rotorua, where they still reside.
While running a videography business that serves various events in New Zealand, Reneel has recently dedicated his efforts to producing content that resonates with the Fiji Indian community. One of his notable projects is a six-episode web series called “The Sunny Side of Ngongotaha,” which delves into the experiences of Fiji Indians in New Zealand. He has several short films in the pipeline, promising even more content in the future.
Reneel expressed his realization that the Fiji Indian community lacked a pop anthem, driving him to create a high-quality song that they could be proud of. He emphasized that his goal was not to become a singer but rather to be a storyteller and creator for his community.
“This is my very first time doing anything like this, but it’s definitely not the end. The positive reactions I’ve received have only fueled my motivation to create even more,” he said.
He explained his choice of a party anthem and the unconventional title. “Fiji Indians love to celebrate life—we cherish our parties, weddings, and gatherings. Yet, we didn’t have an anthem that truly represented us, so I set out to create one.” The title “Jungli,” inspired by a nickname he received, reflects the vibrant and untamed spirit of the Fiji Indian community, showcasing its playful and bold nature.
The entire process of developing “Jungli” took approximately two years, fueled by tremendous support from the local Fiji Indian community including friends, family, and fellow creators.
Reneel reported overwhelming responses to the song, with positive feedback on the music video, highlighting the dynamic dance sequences and striking visuals. He draws inspiration from the late Michael Jackson, whom he admires for his artistry that blended music with visual storytelling, and credits his parents for instilling the values of hard work and authenticity in him.
With the success of “Jungli,” Reneel plans to continue creating engaging entertainment, with several upcoming songs and short films that dive into different facets of the Fiji Indian experience. He is also contemplating a feature film in the future.
“This is a pivotal time for me as a filmmaker and music creator to challenge myself creatively and strive for greatness, all while celebrating the Fiji Indian community through my work,” he stated.
Reneel acknowledged the vital role that the Fijian community in New Zealand played in his project, affirming that the song belongs to everyone who contributed to its creation.