Sandunga is a rarely used word in the Spanish language that can be translated in a variety of ways including; gracefulness, elegance, charm, wit, and celebration.
Ortiz, who served as governor of Tehuantepec[1] also wrote the song in part to promote independence of the isthmus from the Mexican government.
[2] "La Sandunga" has been covered by many artists including Chavela Vargas,[6] Jaramar,[7] Lila Downs,[8] Susana Harp,[9] Los de Abajo,[10]Guadalupe Pineda,[11] and Raphael.
The song is used in the "Sandunga" segment of Sergei Eisenstein's unfinished film project "¡Qué viva México!"
The song is heard multiple times during Netflix's "Chef's Table" Season 2 Episode 4 featuring Enrique Olvera and his Mexico City restaurant Pujol.