Exclusive Collections
April 26, 2025
A.R. Rahman speaks of his approach to composing music for Indian films in an interview with The Guardian. He states that “They expect you to be John Williams, Ennio Morricone, and Michael Jackson all…
In an exclusive chat with Ashanti Omkar, the Oscar winner discusses acceptance speeches, his late sound engineer, the importance of crediting musicians, and why these awards are a bridge for future artists.
Two Oscars marked the pinnacle of Rahman’s artistry, yet the maestro who transformed Indian film music with technology and tradition insists his musical journey has only just begun.
Essential Reads: Editorially Curated
A special section dedicated to showcasing the most compelling and insightful stories about A.R. Rahman.
200 Million Records, One Golden Globe: Meet the Maestro Who Outshines Madonna
The soul-stirring melodies of A.R. Rahman have won him international acclaim, writes Nonika Singh. With sales of 200 million records, India’s…
One Rainy Night with A.R. Rahman: A Memory of the Music Maestro’s Path to Oscars
Through rain-soaked meetings and Oscar-day prayers, S. Ramakrishnan shares his encounters with Rahman and captures the moment when a voice…
‘He creates intricate patterns others may not think of’: Inside Rahman’s Musical Mind
From Bollywood to Broadway, A.R. Rahman’s melodies are conquering the world. Discover how this ‘musical prodigy’ creates chart-toppers that…
150 Million Albums, 1 Broadway Show: A.R. Rahman’s American Gamble
Journey through A.R. Rahman’s eclectic soundscape, from Tamil hits to Broadway aspirations. Discover why this critic believes Rahman’s genius…
‘The Creator and The Preserver’: A.R. Rahman’s Transformative Impact on Indian Music
From breaking regional barriers within India to winning Academy Awards for Slumdog Millionaire, this musical innovator has transformed film…
The Sweet Sedative: How Rahman’s Score Makes Slumdog’s Poverty Palatable
In this penetrating analysis of Rahman’s Oscar-winning work, the composer’s soundtrack is revealed as both savior and sedative – a sonic…
‘From Morning Tea to Oscar Night’: The Untold Story of Rahman’s Humbling Journey
A rare glimpse into Rahman’s world before global fame: from quiet mornings in Kodambakkam to Oscar glory, how India’s musical genius remained…
“Even with all his awards, I’m happiest when my son eats properly” – Kareema Beegum
In an exclusive interview with Kumudham, Kareema Begum reveals intimate stories of Rahman’s childhood genius, his relentless dedication to…
‘I Chose Love and I’m Here’: A.R. Rahman’s Double Oscar Victory Makes History
Bollywood Hungama gives a minute-by-minute account of the 81st Academy Awards, where Slumdog Millionaire’s team, led by Rahman and Pookutty,…
Beyond Music: Seven Traits That Define A.R. Rahman’s Response to Oscar Glory
While media spotlight chases his Oscar glory, Rahman shows seven extraordinary qualities – from divine gratitude to educational vision – that…
Miracle Maker: How A.R. Rahman’s Musical Magic Conquered Hollywood’s Heart
Beyond the ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ triumph lies a deeper story of innovation and persistence: how a jingle composer from Chennai revolutionized…
‘All My Life I Chose Love’: The Complete Collection of Rahman’s Oscar Journey Quotes
From pre-Oscar jitters to profound reflections on love over hate, every significant quote from A.R. Rahman’s journey to becoming the first…
Remembering the legends close to the maestro
This section honors the memory of the talented musicians and technicians who have worked with A.R. Rahman but have sadly passed away.
The Wisdom We’ve Lost: A Poignant Tribute to H. Sridhar Sir by Chinmayi Sripada
In a tribute post to the late sound engineer H. Sridhar, singer Chinmayi reflects on the profound impact he had on her life and career. Through heartfelt memories, she…
Revolutionizing Sound: How H. Sridhar shaped A.R. Rahman’s iconic soundtracks
In a blog post by Nandakumar Nayar, H. Sridhar is credited for pioneering recording techniques, reflecting on the hit collaboration started with “Chinna Chinna Aasai”…
Crafting Lagaan’s Soundscape: H Sridhar on A.R. Rahman, Period Authenticity, and Oscar Hopes
In a Rediff.com interview, sound engineer H Sridhar reveals the audio magic behind ‘Lagaan’. From A.R. Rahman’s compositions to recreating 1893 sound, Sridhar shares…
![[Chapter 01] Sekhar Master - The Unsung Melody Behind A.R. Rahman's Musical Legacy](https://i0.wp.com/rahmaniac.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Print_Interview_2006.jpg?fit=768%2C480&ssl=1)
[Ch. 01] R.K. Sekhar Master – The Unsung Melody Behind A.R. Rahman’s Musical Legacy
Discover the musical journey of R.K. Sekhar, A.R. Rahman’s father. From his early training to working with renowned composers, explore how Sekhar’s talent and struggles…
![[Ch. 02] The A.R. Rahman Story - From Family Struggles to Musical Revolution](https://i0.wp.com/rahmaniac.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Print_Interview_2006-1.jpg?fit=768%2C480&ssl=1)
[Ch. 02] The A.R. Rahman Story – From Family Struggles to Musical Revolution
Following his father’s passing, young Dileep Kumar supported his family by lending instruments and playing keyboard. His journey from child prodigy to A.R. Rahman began…
![[Ch. 03] The Spiritual Journey of A. R. Rahman: From Dileep Kumar to Iconic Composer](https://i0.wp.com/rahmaniac.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Print_Interview_2006.jpg?fit=768%2C480&ssl=1)
[Ch. 03] The Spiritual Journey of A. R. Rahman: From Dileep Kumar to Iconic Composer
A. R. Rahman reflects on his journey from Dileep to Rahman, discussing how Islam provided him peace, his father’s musical legacy, and how faith and discipline fueled his…
![[Ch. 04] Six-Year-Old A.R. Rahman’s First Composition: The Birth of a Musical Prodigy](https://i0.wp.com/rahmaniac.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Print_Interview_2006-1.jpg?fit=768%2C480&ssl=1)
[Ch. 04] Six-Year-Old A.R. Rahman’s First Composition: The Birth of a Musical Prodigy
In 1975, a young A.R. Rahman, then known as Dileep, composed his first tune for the film “Penpada.” Guided by his father, R.K. Sekhar, this unexpected composition marked…
![[Ch. 05] A Closer Look at the Cinematic Legacy of R.K. Sekhar: A Maestro's Melodic Contributions](https://i0.wp.com/rahmaniac.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Print_Interview_2006-2.jpg?fit=768%2C480&ssl=1)
[Ch. 05] A Closer Look at the Cinematic Legacy of R.K. Sekhar: A Maestro’s Melodic Contributions
R.K. Sekhar composed unforgettable scores for Indian cinema, working with legendary voices like KJ Yesudas and S. Janaki. His creative brilliance laid the groundwork for…
A.R. Rahman in the World of Others
“Reflections About Rahman” offers a unique glimpse into the personal and professional journeys of those who’ve worked with A.R. Rahman.
Latest Video Interviews
Discover A.R. Rahman’s creative process and personal insights through these exclusive video interviews. From his musical journey to behind-the-scenes stories, each conversation offers a rare glimpse into the mind of one of the world’s most iconic composers.
Oscar Glory and Beyond: A.R. Rahman’s Candid Chat with Taran Adarsh for ETC Bollywood
The Oscar-winning composer opens up about balancing Hollywood and Bollywood, his creative process, and bringing fresh sounds to every track in this exclusive conversation with Taran Adarsh for ETC Bollywood.
A.R. Rahman Embraces AI: How Indian Music’s Maestro Shapes Tomorrow’s Sound
In an interview with The Week, the Oscar-winning composer explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and musical creativity, sharing his vision for technology’s role in the future of composition.
A.R. Rahman’s Masterclass: Empowering young Indian filmmakers with musical wisdom
In an enlightening online session with Indian Flim and TV Institute, A.R. Rahman, the iconic Indian music composer, shares invaluable advice for young filmmakers eager to carve their own paths in the industry.
Symphony of Stories: A.R. Rahman talks ‘GoatLife’ soundtrack with Prithviraj Sukumaran
In an enlightening interview from the set of “GoatLife,” A.R. Rahman and Prithviraj Sukumaran delve into the nuances of creating the film’s soulful soundtrack and the story that inspired it.
Unveiling musical mastery: A.R. Rahman and RJ Salil discuss creativity and the future of music
In an engaging interview on Radio City India, A.R. Rahman, alongside RJ Salil, delves into the intricacies of his musical journey, discussing his innovative approach to Chamkila and Maidaan.
How A.R. Rahman transformed Punjabi Music in ‘Chamkila’ – Revealed on RoTalks from Fever FM
In a special episode of Fever FM’s RoTalks, A.R. Rahman offers a rare glimpse into his creative process for the upcoming 2024 films ‘Chamkila’, ‘Maidaan’, and ‘The Goat Life’.
Popular Fan Stories
Print & Web Interviews from the Archives
Take a step back in time and explore the captivating journey of A.R. Rahman through these rare print and web interviews.
Print Interviews: 2000
Step into the year 2000 with A.R. Rahman as he shares his thoughts on his musical journey, his approach to creating timeless melodies, and…
Print Interviews: 2001
In this section, you will find a comprehensive collection of interviews conducted with the renowned Indian composer, singer-songwriter and…
Print Interviews: 2002
In this section, you will find a comprehensive collection of interviews conducted with the renowned Indian composer, singer-songwriter,…
Print Interviews: 2003
In this section, you will find a comprehensive collection of interviews conducted with the renowned Indian composer, singer-songwriter,…
Print Interviews: 2004
In this section, you will find a comprehensive collection of interviews conducted with the renowned Indian composer, singer-songwriter,…
Print Interviews: 2005
In this section, you will find a comprehensive collection of interviews conducted with the renowned Indian composer, singer-songwriter,…
Print Interviews: 2006
In this section, you will find a comprehensive collection of interviews conducted with the renowned Indian composer, singer-songwriter,…
Print Interviews: 2007
Join A.R. Rahman in a series of candid conversations from the year 2007, as he opens up about his musical milestones, his approach to…
Print Interviews: 2008
Take a journey back to 2008, where Rahman welcomes us into his world right before Slumdog Millionaire would catapult him to global…
Print Interviews: 2009
Let’s step back to 2009 – a golden year when A.R. Rahman sat down with us, fresh off his Oscar win for “Slumdog Millionaire.” These…
Print Interviews: 1999
Dive into the mind of A.R. Rahman at the cusp of a new millennium. These 1999 interviews capture the maestro reflecting on his meteoric…
Print Interviews: 1998
Step into 1998 and explore A.R. Rahman’s world at a pivotal moment in his career. These rare print interviews capture the maestro’s…
Concerts & Special Events
Explore a curated image collection of A.R. Rahman’s most unforgettable concerts and key events.
A.R. Rahman’s 25-Year Tribute at Sony Centre, Canada (2017)
Explore the gallery from Ideal Dreams, a tribute to A. R. Rahman’s 25-year journey, held at Toronto’s Sony Centre, featuring 100+ performers celebrating his legacy through music,…
A. R. Rahman’s ‘Marakkuma Nenjam’ Concert, Chennai (2023)
Explore the breathtaking imagery from the “Marakkuma Nenjam” concert, held on 10 September 2023 in Chennai, commemorating three decades of A.R. Rahman’s career in music, fondly known…
50 Days Celebration of Maamannan – Exclusive Images (2023)
Explore the gallery from the 50 Days Celebration of Maamannan in August 2023, featuring A.R. Rahman, Udhay Stalin, Mari Selvaraj, Vadivelu, and Keerthy Suresh. Discover moments from…
A. R. Rahman’s ‘Sufi Route’ Concert for Peace, Delhi (2019)
Explore the images of the “Sufi Route” concert by A.R. Rahman, held in the serene environs of the Garden of Five Senses in Delhi on 09 February 2019, a celebration of peace and…
A. R. Rahman’s ‘Marakkuma Nenjam’ Concert, Coimbatore (2023)
Immerse yourself in the stunning images from the “Marakkuma Nenjam” concert, held on 20 August 2023 in Coimbatore, celebrating 30 years of A.R. Rahman’s musical journey,…
A.R. Rahman promotes Jhootha Hi Sahi on Saregamapa (2010)
Check out the gallery from Episode 11 of Saregamapa Singing Superstar 2010, aired on September 17, 2010. A. R. Rahman made a special appearance, adding to the excitement of the show.
A.R. Rahman Live in Concert – Adlux Centre, Cochin (2018)
Explore the magical vibes of A.R. Rahman’s concert in Cochin, Kerala at Adlux Conventional Centre from 23 and 24 June 2018 with stunning pictures that show a night full of great…
A.R. Rahman at the 36th Fajr Film Festival, Tehran (2018)
In April 2018, A.R. Rahman attended the 36th Fajr International Film Festival in Tehran, Iran. Explore the gallery featuring moments from this prestigious event with the legendary composer.
Le Musk Premieres at Infinity Festival Hollywood (2022)
In 2022, A.R. Rahman debuted his immersive VR film Le Musk at the Infinity Festival Hollywood, North America’s premiere, showcasing his innovative foray into cinematic virtual…
A.R. Rahman Live in Concert – Sharjah, UAE (2017)
Relive the magic of A.R. Rahman’s “Live in Concert” on March 17, 2017, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, UAE, where the maestro’s compositions transcended boundaries, weaving…
Promo Shoots & Press Coverages
Iconic promotional shoots and press coverages of A.R. Rahman, capturing his artistic collaborations with renowned brands and global media.
How ‘A.R. Rahman listens to A.R. Rahman’: JBL Promo Shoot
Delve into the intimate world of ‘How A.R. Rahman listens to A.R. Rahman’ through the exclusive JBL Harman promo photo shoot, showcasing his relationship with sound and melody.
Harmony with A.R. Rahman Series: Amazon Prime Promo Shoot
Step into the magic of ‘Harmony with A.R. Rahman’ through an exclusive behind-the-scenes look from the Amazon Prime promo shoot, showcasing the musical journey of a legend.
Today at Apple: Capturing A.R. Rahman’s Musical Mastery
Discover ‘Today at Apple: A.R. Rahman Images’—a gallery showing the music star’s special event in India during 2020. See the exclusive pictures that bring his music and creativity to life.
Behind the Mac with A.R. Rahman: Apple Promo Shoot
Dive into ‘Behind the Mac with A.R. Rahman,’ a glimpse into the musical maestro’s workflow during the Apple promotional shoot, where technology leader meets creative genius.
A. R. Rahman’s Golden Globe Win: A Historic Moment (2009)
Explore the extensive media coverage of A.R. Rahman’s monumental Golden Globe win in 2009, a groundbreaking achievement that made him the first Indian composer to earn this…
Gloss of Genius: A.R. Rahman photo shoot for ‘Sheenlac’
‘Always shine with Sheenlac’ campaign bridges the worlds of music and aesthetics, illustrating how Rahman’s timeless compositions align with Sheenlac’s commitment to beauty and durability.