Chennai, 10 June 2024 — Renowned worldwide as the “Mozart of Madras,” A. R. Rahman has left an incredible legacy in the music industry with his innovative compositions and unparalleled talent. Rahman’s musical journey started early, greatly influenced by his father, R. K. Shekhar, a composer for Tamil and Malayalam films. Rahman was born A. S. Dileep Kumar in Chennai on January 6, 1967.
Rahman was further immersed in the world of music as a result of his family renting out musical instruments to support themselves after his father’s tragic demise. He started out writing jingles and documentary music before making a big splash in the film business with Mani Ratnam’s “Roja” in 1992. He won the National Film Award for Best Music Direction for the “Roja” soundtrack, which launched a revolutionary new age in Indian cinema music.
Rahman’s distinctive sound is a symphonic yet contemporary blend of electronic, world, and conventional orchestral compositions with Indian classical music. His wide repertoire, which showcases his versatility, includes songs in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and English. His well-known soundtracks from films like “Dil Se,” “Lagaan,” “Rang De Basanti,” “Bombay,” and “Slumdog Millionaire” have made him a global celebrity.
A major turning point in Rahman’s career, the soundtrack of “Slumdog Millionaire” brought him two Academy Awards for Best Original Score and Best Original Song for “Jai Ho” in 2009, solidifying his place as a highly regarded composer throughout the world. Moreover, he has received Grammy, BAFTA, and Golden Globe awards.
Rahman has contributed to musical theater, live performances, and non-film recordings in addition to movies. His commitment to developing young talent and improving music education is evident in the KM Music Conservatory initiative.
Beyond accolades, A. R. Rahman’s path is a testament to his unwavering commitment, inventive creativity, and capacity to use music to heal cultural rifts. Millions of people are still inspired by his work, which makes him a genuine contemporary music maestro.
