Meaning of Hakuna Matata (What is it, Concept and Definition)

What is Hakuna Matata:

Hakuna Matata is a phrase from the Swahili or Swahili language, a language spoken in East Africa, which has been influenced by Arabic and other languages.The expression Hakuna means' there is no ', and the expression matata means' problems'.Therefore, the phrase literally means' no problem '.It is widely used in countries such as Zanzibar, Tanzania and Kenya to indicate' everything is fine 'or' don't worry, be happy '.

This phrase was popularized thanks to the animated musical movie King Leon , released by Disney Studios in 1994. Hakuna matata was, in effect, the title of one of the most emblematic songs of the film.However, It was not the first time in history that the phrase was used in a song.

Before that, a Kenyan singer named Teddy Kalanda, had composed and recorded in 1982 a song called Kenya Hakuna matata, which sold more than 200 thousand copies and it became a reference in the region and outside of it.Probably from there Disney studios have taken inspiration.

This expression has often been linked to the phrase carpe diem , of Latin origin.This phrase was also popularized by a movie a few years earlier, known as The society of the dead poets (1989).When Hakuna matata appeared, many considered it an African version of carpe diem .

Hakuna matata in The Lion King

The lyrics Hakuna Matata of King Leon was written by Tim Rice and the music was prepared by Eltohn John.It not only quickly became an international success, but was nominated for an Oscar for best song of film, along with two other themes of this musical, also by Elthon John: Can You Feel the Love Toninght and Circle of Life .

The movie tells the story of a lion named Simba, son of King Mufasa and heir to the throne.Simba loses his father in a tragic accident for which he believes he is responsible.Deceived and pressured by his evil uncle Scar, truly guilty of the king's death, he decides to flee.

A wild boar named Pumba and a meerkat named Timon, find Simba passed out in the sun, so they decide to rescue him and become his friends.of living outside society, singing the song Hakuna Matata .At first, Simba observes her as a teaching contrary to her father's philosophy, but soon she is seduced by the idea of ​​leaving her passed back and enjoy the present.

The text of the main refrain, in its translation into Spanish (Mexican dubbing version), says:

Hakuna matata , a way of being

Hakuna matata , nothing to fear

Without worrying is how to live

Living like this, I learned here

Hakuna matata .

See also Carpe diem.