Mahala Raï Banda, a Romani band from Bucharest, was founded in 2004 by Romanian violinist and composer Aurel Ioniță. The band's self-titled debut album was released in 2004, reaching number 3 on the World Music Charts Europe. Their breakthrough came with the song "Mahalageasca", which became a global hit after appearing in the film Borat (2006). The band's second album, Ghetto Blasters, released in 2009, peaked at number 2 on the World Music Charts Europe. Mahala Raï Banda has performed over 200 concerts across 26 countries. The band is known for blending traditional Romani music with energetic brass arrangements, clarinets, and powerful vocals.