A R Rahman The Legend

A R Rahman gets lifetime achievement award at Dubai International Film Festival

2011-12-13T11:53:00.001-08:00

Indian music maestro A R Rahman has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 8th Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF). The Oscar-winner is the youngest and the first musician to get the honour, which was presented to him last night by his highness Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. Previous recipients of the honour are Morgan Freeman, Sean Penn, Oliver Stone, Danny Glover, Terry Gilliam, Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Yash Chopra and Subhash Ghai.

Rahman's soulful compositions blend the intricacies of Western and Indian classical with folk sounds, Qawwali and symphonic orchestral themes. The 45-year-old composer, who has made a distinct print in Indian and world cinema music, said he is a sort of multicultural person, having been exposed to both the Indian and Western culture through his music. "A R Rahman is an inspiration for countless musicians and composers, and has brought a fresh infusion of talent to the Indian film industry.

Through his international foray, working with some of the world's most accomplished musicians, he demonstrated the power of music to cross all barriers and connect with a global audience," said festival chairman Abdulhamid Juma. "We are honoured to present Rahman with the DIFF Lifetime Achievement Award." Rahman will also kick off his world tour with a concert in Dubai on December 9; the concert is supported by the Festival. Winner of two Academy Awards and two Grammys, Rahman is among the youngest recipients of DIFF's Lifetime Achievement Award, which singles out cinema and industry legends from Arab cinema, Asia and Africa, Europe, the Americas and Australasia. His work for 'Slumdog' Millionaire, which was screened at DIFF 2008, won two Academy Awards for Best Original Music Score and Best Original Song. Most recently, he joined forces with Rolling Stones legend Mick Jagger on 'SuperHeavy', a supergroup also featuring Joss Stone, Dave Stewart and Damian Marley. He also composed music for the Mandarin film, 'Warriors of Heaven & Earth'. Other international film credits include '127 Hours', 'Elizabeth: The Golden Age' with Craig Armstrong and 'Couples Retreat'.

Download Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya Songs

2009-12-24T09:50:00.000-08:00

Download Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya Songs

Promo Download
Aaoromale
Mannipaaya
Hosanna
Kannukkul Kannai
Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa
Anbil Avan
Omana Penne

AR Rahman gets CNN-IBN Indian of the Year award

2009-12-21T17:43:00.000-08:00

Seven months after the UPA cruised to a comfortable majority in the 15th Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh accepted that he had never anticipated the victory.

“I was doubtful whether we will have a working majority,” Singh said. But he said he took the victory in his stride: “I have taken things when they happen and when they don’t in my stride. I am neither too pleased with success nor too despondent when success is not there.”

The PM was speaking at the CNN-IBN Indian of the Year 2009 Awards, held in partnership with Hindustan Times.

A.R Rahman, the nominee from the entertainment category, won the award.

Obliquely approving of India’s announcements that it will voluntarily cut its carbon intensity (emissions per unit of GDP) the PM made a plea for sustainable development.

“Humanity’s approach to climate change has to be need-based, not greed-based, as Gandhiji taught us,” he said, referring to the Copenhagen summit. “So I sometimes reflect on whether we should follow the same unsustainable path the industrialized countries took to develop and modernize their societies? Ecological disaster of whatever cause or origin will have far greater consequences in India than in the west. We should… have an informed and rational debate on what is in our enlightened self-interest.”

Singh said 2009 had been a good year for India.

“2009 was a remarkable year for us. The rest of the world was in recession. We are affected, but still the second fastest growing economy,” he said.

He added that the world today relished India as a living model of a purposeful market economy with the rule of law.

Asked if it was good for the country that an economist was heading it in difficult times, Singh said jokingly: “Yes.” As if to emphasise the point that India’s global stature was on the rise, Singh said while congratulating the Indian of the Year 2009 winner Allah Rakha Rahman: “When I heard him sing in the White House, you cannot imagine my sense of joy.”

Couples Retreat Songs Download

2009-12-01T22:41:00.000-08:00

DOWNLOAD

Couples Retreat is a 2009 comedy film directed by Peter Billingsley and written by Jon Favreau, Vince Vaughn and Dana Fox. Vaughn and Favreau star with Faizon Love, Jason Bateman, Kristin Davis, Kristen Bell, Malin Akerman and Jean Reno. The film is rated PG-13 for sexual content and language. It was released on October 9, 2009.A R Rahman Our music legend had done the background score and the songs in Indian Style. Hear it by downloading from here.

Animal Spirits

Intervention

Itinerary

Jason & Cynitia Suite

Jason & Cynthia Piano Theme

Kurukuru Kan (Afro Nisha)

Luau by John O Brien

Meeting Marcel

NaNa

Salvadore

Sharks

The Waterfall

Tour of the villas

Undress

ADA team waits for busy Rahman

2009-12-01T20:45:00.001-08:00

If things would have gone as planned by the makers of ADA...A WAY OF LIFE, the film would have released in the middle of last year itself. However, due to some unforeseen circumstances, the film continued to be delayed and is now hitting the screens on 18th December.

One wonders how frustrating it was for the film's debut leading man Ayaan Ahmad who had to wait for such a long period of time?

"Well, it's indeed a feeling of mixed reaction. I am glad though that finally our effort would be out there for people to see. However, there is a nervous thing to it. The movie did get a little delayed and something like that is never welcome", says Ayaan who is paired opposite Nauheed Cyrusi (last seen in KURBAAN) in the film.

When quizzed about the reason for delay, Ayaan divulges, "We were waiting for A.R. Rahman to do the background score of the film. He was quite caught up with SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE and quite a few other events pre and post Oscars. In fact he was gracious enough to allow a different composer coming in but my dad (Tanvir Ahmad) who has directed the movie wanted him only to do it."

Why did they choose this route when it was resulting in so much delay? After all the soundtrack had already hit the stands and completion of background score by another composer could have finished the job sooner.

"See, ADA is a musical journey and we didn't want to compromise by any means", clarifies Ayaan, "According to me as well as others who have heard Rahman's background score, it is one of his best works ever. After such a long wait when I hear the score today, all my frustration goes away.

A.R. Rahman’s CouplesRetreat release on Saregama

2009-12-01T20:42:00.000-08:00

Academy Award-winning composer A.R. Rahman makes his first foray into composing music for an American comedy feature with Universal Pictures’ forthcoming romantic comedy, Couples’ Retreat. The soundtrack will be released by Saregama India Limited digitally and in all retail outlets nationwide on November 30.
The music has sounds of a tropical island fusing with “the laidback rhythms of island music” according to the press release. Rahman has created a score that goes with the film’s light-hearted tone blended with his signature “Indian” sound. “There are so many musical avenues to be explored,” says Rahman. “I’ve wanted to try new things for a long time and had hoped to have the opportunity to venture into American comedy. This film presented a lot of creative challenges and was deeply rewarding for me as composer.”

Couples’ Retreat is directed by Peter Billingsley and stars Vince Vaughn, Jason Bateman, Jon Favreau, Malin Akerman, Kristin Davis, Kristen Bell and Faizon Love.Based on an original idea by Vaughn, the comedy has four mid-Western couples, visiting a tropical island resort, one to work on their marriage, and the other three to enjoy. What follows is a hilarious look at the problems faced by all couples.

Rahman at White House dinner

2009-12-01T20:38:00.000-08:00

AR Rahman is scaling one milestone after another. The 'Mozart of Madras' performed at the White House in front of President Barack Obama and Indian PM Manmohan Singh to mark the latter's three-day visit to the US.

The US president Barack Obama hosted a state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the South Lawn in the White House. The first ever after the Obama was sworn in as the President.

The 338-long list of celebrities was from various fields like entertainers, business moguls, noted politicians and friends of the President graced the event.

The first lady Michelle Obama was seen in a strapless gold dress and overlaid with silver work and a matching shawl.

The Indian cooking was personally overlooked by the first lady and consisted mostly of vegetarian dishes as Manmohan Singh is a vegetarian. The food was prepared by the chief Chef Williams.

The scheme for the dinner was green and purple, to symbolize peacock the national bird of India.

A huge tent was construction for this purpose at the South Lawn with magnificent views of the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial which held chandeliers and beige carpets on the floor.

The President welcomed the Prime minister in Hindi (Aapka Suwagat Hai meaning You are welcome).

Some of the celebrity guests where Stephen Spielberg, Governor Bobby Jindal, Mukesh Ambani, Hillary Clinton, Robert Gates, New York Mayor, actress Jennifer Hudson, Deepak Chopra, S S Sathwal, Sanjay Gupta, Amirtya Sen, Indrya Nooyi and not to forget our very own Oscar winning music composer A R Rahman. The highlight of the evening was the music by the Mozart of Madras.

It is worth a mention here that Manmohan Singh was invited for the state dinner for the second time, the first one during the Bush regime.

He sang two tracks -- Jai Ho and Dreams on Fire -- from his Oscar-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire.

As part of an initiative by the government authorities, Rahman performed with Indian and western artistes to welcome Singh in the US.

A source said, "It was an electrifying performance celebrating brotherhood between India and the US. Rahman set the mood for Manmohan Singh's three-day visit to the US. High level government officials of both countries witnessed this performance."

Rahman has a great fan following in the US. "He was the best person to have during this crucial meeting of the two country's heads. There were bhangra performers too at the event. Rahman also teamed up with musician Taku Hirano with whom he had performed at Time magazine's gala event that had crowned the 100 Most Influential people of the world in New York City."

Katrina Kaif signs up AR Rahman

2009-12-01T20:35:00.000-08:00

Katrina Kaif is supporting a noble cause that is being looked after by her mother Suzanne. The actress has in fact signed up the Oscar winner AR Rahman to compose music for a video that will be used to raise funds in support of the cause. Katrina, apart from donating Rs. 50 lakhs, will also star in the video.

The funds, according to our sources, will be used to inaugurate the children’s wing adjacent to Mercy Home in Chennai.

Several other Bollywood stars are also expected to star in the video but the official announcement is yet to be made.

Initially, Katrina was only supposed to be part of the music video but now after watching her progress at the box-office, Katrina has been asked to sing a few songs in the album. It was initially suggested that Katrina sing Rahman's compositions in English but now she will be seen singing in Hindi. This despite the fact that she has a heavy British accent and is just beginning to learn Hindi.

Katrina says, "Why not? I'm always game for new challenges. Singing in itself was a challenge because I've never sung professionally. Singing in English would've been a convenient challenge. But I'd rather take the uncomfortable route. So why not me singing in Hindi?"

For someone who couldn't speak a line of Hindi when she came entered Bollywood Katrina sure has come a long way.

She adds, "Somewhere down the line, I got tired of people commenting on my Hindi. I guess I've been working hard on it."

As Katrina gears up to sing for AR Rahman she has already started practicing. Hard.

Rahman felicitated in White House

2009-11-29T23:14:00.000-08:00

As usual he stunned his audience with his music which included US President Barack Obama and our Prime Minister Dr Man Mohan Singh. The Oscar Winner A R Rahman was felicitated in White House where he performed for the guests and became the star attraction for the evening.

The fuction , hosted by the US President himself and his wife Michelle, Rahman was one of the invited guests from India. He performed his Oscar winning song Jai Ho for the audience. Both Obama and Man Mohan Singh felicitated Rahman.

Rahman's music conservatory launches new courses

2009-11-29T23:11:00.000-08:00

OSCAR WINNING musician AR Rahman’s prestigious KM Music Conservatory is reportedly proposing to launch a preparatory program in various instruments.

The conservatory is proposing to offer this two to five years program in French Horn, Saxophone, Flute, Double Bass, Trumpet, Oboe, Trombone, and Clarinet. There are no age restrictions for admission into this specially designed program. This program is currently offered in Harp, Percussion, Piano, Violin, Cello, Hindustani and Western Voice, Guitar and Viola.

It would also offer a foundation program of one to two years and a degree program of three years, in affiliation with Middlesex University in United Kingdom. Many faculty members have degrees from USA and UK. Sound editor Joe E Rand has given lectures here at this conservatory and the Vienna Chamber Orchestra has also performed here.

The music school also plans to offer a two year masters program and a year long “Diploma in Indian Music and Music Technology”. It also ensures that students study music icons in an indepth manner, like Michael Jackson.

Founded by Rahman, who is also its Principal, the KM Music Conservatory in Kodambakkam area of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, envisions expanding the horizon of musicians in India, by offering education in both Indian and Western music besides music technology. Its mission is to provide students with a strong artistic, intellectual and technical foundation. T Selvakumar is the Managing Director of this international school of music as it strives to achieve its motto, "Become the Future of Music".

Indo-American statesman Rajan Zed has applauded Rahman for creating a bridge between the music of east and west and for strengthening the worldwide market and stature of Indian music. Zed, the chairperson of Indo-American Leadership Confederation, in a statement in Nevada (USA) on Friday, November 27, urged Rahman to help nourish the next generation with the richness of Indian music.

Rahman, who has reportedly recorded sales of over 300 million, was called “Mozart of Madras'' by the Time magazine. Rahman sees music “as a way to connect to spirituality and embrace it” and for “creating harmony in troubled times”.

Blue Songs Download

2009-10-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

The Rs100 crore film is out. And it’s no better than a second-rung Hollywood action flick. The crores have gone in to create some visual wizardry and thrilling stunts under water. Akshay Kumar wears some great shoes and clothes too. But Anthony D’Souza’s Blue lacks sorely in good writing, good performances and good storytelling, pretty much all the things that make a film crackerjack.

First, the very predictable story: Aarav (Akshay Kumar) is a shipping magnate somewhere in the Bahamas. Sagar (Sanjay Dutt), who Aarav calls “Sethji”, works for him. Mona (Lara Dutta) is Sagar’s lover and arm candy. Sam (Zayed Khan) is Sagar’s errant brother, who is fond of motorbikes and races. Nikki (Katrina Kaif) is the love interest of two of the leading men.

Ocean’s 4: The film’s cast swam with sharks in the Bahamas.

All is hunky-dory in the island where Aarav and Sagar live, except that the very mention of “the lady in blue” puts Sagar in a tizzy. Aarav is convinced Sagar is the only one who can navigate the deep sea and unearth the treasures from a ship that sank ages ago. Sagar has a tragic past related to the sunken ship. But circumstances eventually force him to go looking. There’s little suspense or intrigue as deceptions are revealed, and the film snowballs into a ludicrous climax. I was left wondering if some of the action was at all possible scientifically.

The actors have some really puerile lines, and some of the dialogues are sexist as well as racist. The film begins with Aarav boasting about his two hot recruits, Ebony and Ivory (the women recruits, his toys, wear skimpy sailor uniforms). In the middle of a blustering gun encounter between the villain (played by Rahul Dev) and Sagar inside Sagar’s house, Mona screams, “Stop it, stop it, everything can be solved by talking!” Mayur Puri, who has done the screenplay and dialogues, is a writer without imagination.

D’Souza, a debutant director, has said in interviews that he wanted to make a “never-seen-before film” and so it had to be shot under the ocean. Taken literally, he has achieved what he sought out to do. Visually, the underwater sequences of Blue are spectacular. Directed by James Bomalick, a Hollywood stunt director who has worked in some of the Die Hard films, inMr. & Mrs. Smith and Fast and Furious, the stunts are set against the cobalt blue water and multi-hued marine life, some at least 50ft in the water. Sharks abound in the sea too.

Kumar performs the stunts with amazing ease; he is undoubtedly the best action hero we have. He has the agility, attitude and confidence to take on physically demanding roles. But sadly, most Hindi movies in the genre are notches below the best of Hollywood, and Blue is no exception.

But because of its length—a tight 1 hour and 57 minutes— and if action movies are your thing, it’s worth a watch just for the marine spectacles.

Chiggy Wiggi

Fiqrana

Yaar Mila Tha

Rehuma

Bhoola Thujhe

Blue Theme

Aaj Dil GustakhHa

INDIAN SUPERSTAR COMING TO SYDNEY IN JANUARY

2009-09-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

Sydney Festival announced today that Academy Award-winning composer of the Slumdog Millionaire soundtrack, A.R. Rahman, will give an exclusive free concert at Parramatta Park on Saturday 16 January as part of the 2010 Festival program.

NSW Premier and Sydney Festival President Nathan Rees yesterday made the initial announcement at Sydney Olympic Park at the India Australia Friendship Fair, to an extremely appreciative Indian/Australian crowd. “Oscar award-winning artist A.R. Rahman has generously agreed to offer a one-off, free public concert, as part of Sydney Festival in January next year. The NSW Government in conjunction with Sydney Festival will host the event at Parramatta Park.” The Premier said.

“Without doubt one of the world’s great talents, I am sure Rahman will show Sydney why he is one of the all-time highest selling recording artists. I congratulate Mr Rahman for his leadership and goodwill. We all look forward to having him here next year.”

Sydney Festival had already been in talks with Rahman to perform as part of a program of Indian music and theatre. In concern of the current tensions in Australian/Indian relations as a result of attacks on Indian students in Australia, Rahman himself suggested a free concert as a demonstration of cultural diplomacy and a gesture of goodwill.

Sydney Festival Director Lindy Hume said today “This is effectively the first major announcement of the 2010 Festival.” said Hume. “I’m thrilled we’re starting out with such a big, generous event that, in light of current tensions between India and Australia, will help to reflect our city as a welcoming, socially and culturally inclusive place.”

“While A.R. Rahman deservedly enjoys national hero status in India, he is recognised globally as a truly inspirational and multidimensional artist. Rahman’s music – embracing Indian, Western and Asian influences – connects with hearts and minds all over the world. His generous gesture in sharing his extraordinary talents with Sydney next January is deeply appreciated.”

“I also very much want to acknowledge the significance of the State Government’s support and in particular that of the Premier for his personal commitment.”

Clover Moore MP, Chair of Sydney Festival said, “I welcome the initiative of inviting Mr Rahman to participate in the 2010 Sydney Festival. Apart from bringing his superb music to Sydney, he will also be promoting the values of inclusiveness and cultural diversity.”

A.R. Rahman is the undisputed superstar of contemporary Indian music. In a country of a billion inhabitants where film and pop music are one, Rahman, 43, dominates the music industry. On an international scale, cd sales of his film scores and soundtracks have exceeded 100 million (as well as more than 200 million cassettes) making him one of the world's all-time top selling recording artists.

As well as winning two Oscars for Slumdog Millionaire, Rahman has won 13 Filmfare Awards, four National Film Awards, a BAFTA Award and a Golden Globe. Time magazine named Rahman in The 2009 Time 100 World's Most Influential People.

Sydney Festival is Australia’s largest annual arts festival, showcasing a broad spectrum of Australian and international dance, theatre, visual arts and music. The dates for Sydney Festival 2010 are January 9–30, with the full program announced in early November.

GMR Hyderabad Airport to host Rahman’s ‘Jai Ho’ Concert

2009-09-08T18:30:00.000-07:00

GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd.(GHIAL), will be hosting Oscar award winner A.R.Rahman’s ‘Jai Ho’ Concert on Saturday, October 24th,2009. Over 50,000 people are expected to attend the event, which will be organized by Rapport Global Events and Wizcraft, and held at a specially created ‘GMR Arena’ near the Novotel Hyderabad Airport, just two kilometers away from the airport.

Mr.P. Sripathy, CEO of GHIAL, said that, “We intend creating a leisure destination outside and around our airport, so that the people of Hyderabad are provided newer, interesting avenues for entertainment and enjoyment. We will have these events on a regular basis. With the festival season starting middle of September, we have already lined up a host of activities that will lead in to the ‘Jai Ho’ Concert on 24th October.

“We will start off the festive celebrations with the Airport Festive Carnival from the 19th of September through the 25th of October. During this period, any passenger or their relatives and friends who purchase any goods or services worth a minimum of Rs.300, will be eligible for a lucky draw coupon which will enable them to be entered for the Grand Draw prize of a return ticket for two, to Singapore. Additionally, in the weekly draws, two lucky winners will get free tickets to the ‘Jai Ho’ Concert”, he added.

Mr. Sripathy said that the ‘Jai Ho’ Concert will provide the people of Hyderabad and surrounding areas, an international standard event experience, with state of the art equipment and facilities.

Plans are on to provide a special weekend package for outstation enthusiasts in collaboration with the Novotel Hyderabad Airport and Jet Airways.

2009-05-28T02:11:00.001-07:00

The Border Security Force (BSF) jawans will now march to the beats of Oscar winner A R Rahman. The music composer, who enchanted the world with his `Jai Ho' number, has composed the theme song for the paramilitary force. The five minute song — `Hum Seema Suraksha Bal... Veeron ka hai ye dal (We are the Border Security Force... it is the force of the brave)' (which is originally composed by Rahman as ‘Aazadi’ for the 2005 bollywood movie ‘Bose – forgotten hero’), praises the strength and valour of the force which is responsible for guarding the Indo-Pakistan and Indo-Bangladesh borders. "The credit for the song goes to Meghalaya governor R S Moosahary, who is a former director-general of the force. He helped us get in touch with Rahman, who composed the song without charging any money for it," BSF chief M L Kumawat told reporters on the occasion of the force's investiture ceremony here on Thursday. After being formally released on the occasion, the song, which also captures the emotional tribulations of a jawan guarding the border while leaving his family behind, comes with a video — titled `Borderman' — showing BSF men in action along the border, undergoing training and the famous `change of guard' ceremony at Wagah border. Kumawat said: "The song and the video capture the true spirit of the force. Rahman has also promised to come and spend time with our men to boost their morale." [ This track is originally composed by A R Rahman as ‘Aazadi’ for the 2005 Bollywood movie ‘Bose – the forgotten hero’ .Now its reused, but with different lyrics.

DOWNLOAD

Video

Rahman unhappy with use of 'Jai Ho' in campaign

2009-05-16T20:34:00.001-07:00

Chennai, May 13: Music maestro A.R. Rahman, whose compositions in "Slumdog Millionaire" made him the first Indian to win twin Oscars, is critical of political parties using for a poll campaign the song "Jai Ho" that he composed for Danny Boyle's rags-to-riches drama.

"I was like in the bed, I was dehydrated, exhausted, and then all these things happened, somebody told me these people are using it. I hate politics. I just want people to serve the people. I want governments, whichever government comes in, to be unbiased and say there should be justice in the country and that's my purpose in life," Rahman said in an interview on CNN's Talk Asia.

The interview will be aired on CNN May 20 and there will repeat telecasts May 21 and May 23.

The Congress had bought exclusive rights to the song "Jai Ho" for its poll campaign but the jingle was later dropped as the party's theme song.

In the interview, the shy composer also explains how his accolades for "Slumdog Millionaire" are also a recognition for India.

"I got very emotional when saying this is for India, when you guys truly deserve it because there are so many different film industries in India, so many different markets, Hindi film industry, Tamil film industry, Malayalam, then Bengali, so in a way I think it culminates all their aspirations and so it's here," he said.

Before he shot to stardom with the film "Roja", Rahman used to create radio jingles. He has since collaborated with international music superstars like Michael Jackson and Kylie Minogue.

When asked about his next project post-Oscars, he said: "I have a couple of offers from Hollywood. Pure American movies which I thought for the heck of it let's do it and a couple of other surprises that you'll know very soon if it works out. Big surprises I think."

Pussycat Dolls Jai Ho (You Are My Destiny)

2009-04-17T13:40:00.000-07:00

American song and dance team The Pussycat Dolls have teamed up with A.R. Rahman, Jimmy Iovine and producer Ron Fair to produce a single and music video for their English language version of Jai Ho, the award winning song from Slumdog Millionaire. Jai Ho (You Are My Destiny) features A.R. Rahman, the song’s original vocalist, Nicole Sherzinger and the Pussycat Dolls dancing in a railway station based in a Vienna tramway museum. The official Universal Studios YouTube version of the video has had 2,346,165 views since being uploaded on March 17, 2009.

The Pussycat Dolls - Jai Ho (You Are My Destiny)

Credits

The Pussycat Dolls members are Ashley Roberts, Nicole Scherzinger, Jessica Sutta, Melody Thornton and Kimberly Wyatt.

Filming for the music video was shot by director Thomas Kloss with producers Kathy Angstadt and Missy Galanida.

“Jai Ho”, the original song, was composed by A. R. Rahman, with words written in Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi and Spanish by Gulzar, for the 2008 film Yuvvraaj. Director Subhash Ghaiand decided that the song wasn’t suitable for use in his film. The song went on to be performed in the 2008 film Slumdog Millionaire, the track for a choreographed dance, sung during the end credits by Sukhwinder Singh and Rahman, Tanvi Shah, Mahalakshmi Iyer and Vijay Prakash.

Rahman features in new Akon video

2009-03-26T19:19:00.000-07:00

After making it to the Top 20 of the US music charts, Rahman has made another appearance on the international music scene - this time in Akon's new music video 'Beautiful'.

Taken from this album 'Freedom', it features Kardinal Offishall and Colby O'Donis, who appears on the track. Rahman's appearance in the video comes as a surprise as the music maestro is usually shy of appearing in videos and doing cameos. According to online music magazine Blender (www.blender.com), Akon met Rahman during his visit to Mumbai. During his meeting, they had discussed Akon's new album ‘Freedom’ and Rahman had even heard a few rough cuts of his tracks.

Rahman’s cameo happened when he was in the US this year promoting Slumdog Millionaire and performing on various chat night shows (The Tonight show, Oprah Winfrey, etc). Rahman appears towards the end of the video dressed in a dapper suit surrounded by the models who pose with him. The video can be found on youtube.com

New Tamil Anthem by A.R.Rahman

2009-03-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

A.R.Rahman is all set to compose a new tune to make a new Tamil Anthem for the world Tamil people.
Lyricist Vairamuthu said recently at an audio launch, “I will be writing the lyrics for the new Tamil anthem, which is an invocation and will reach out to all the Tamils around the globe. The music for the anthem will be composed by the double Oscar winner A.R.Rahman!”
A.R.Rahman’s first composition ‘Chinna Chinna Aasai…’ for the movie Roja was written by Vairamuthu, which had fetched both of them a national award.
According to the lyricist, Tamilians living in foreign countries will have their own Tamil anthem just like our present anthem ‘Neerarum Kadaludttha Nila Madanthai’.
It was written by famous poet Manonmaniam Sundaram Pillai and based on the landscapes and boundaries of erstwhile Tamil Nadu. The need for a new anthem was brought to notice when Vairamuthu and A.R.Rahman attended a function together in Malaysia and sang the Tamil anthem in their own.
Speaking about the glorious moment when Rahman bagged the Oscar and ended his winning speech in Tamil, Vairamuthu said, “Rahman’s passion for his mother tongue was evident when he addressed an elite gathering in Tamil. Also, at a time when Tamil has been declared as a classic language by the Centre, I felt proud that Rahman chose to speak Tamil at an international stage.”
A couple of days before, AR Rahman had also confirmed what Vairamuthu said in the function.
He said, “I will compose music for the new Tamil Anthem once Vairamuthu completes his work..”

Aam admi, Rahman’s Jai Ho and Congress party

2009-03-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

New Delhi, March 14, 2009: Aam admi, Rahman’s Jai Ho and Congress party. Congress seems to have got a perfect slogan in Jai Ho for general elections. Allah Rakkha Rahman’s success in Slumdog Millionaire in being cashed in by a political party in the forthcoming general elections.

And by the way the party has bought copyright for the super hit song Jai Ho. The song is hit and it is fresh in people’s mind and so Congress party is trying to use the song in the best way possible.

But one thing is not sure and that is as to how much the song will help the Congress in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. During last general elections the BJP had tried to sell the idea of India shining.

But the nation refused to buy the catchword at that time. Now everyone is asking if Jai Ho will bring votes to the Congress or give a similar fate to the party that the BJP got in the last Lo Sabha elections.

In the meantime there are indications that besides Jai Ho Congress party will build up its election campaign around the aam admi (common man) but its allies in the UPA are unlikely to find place in the propaganda war against the NDA at the national level. The central theme of the campaign is the common man, said a party strategist involved in the campaign strategy.

The Congress in order to woo the electorate has made a three minute film. Set to the tune of the Oscar winning song Jai Ho, the three one-minute spot films highlight the advances made by the aam aadmi under the Congress tutelage. The films focus on the 60-year heritage of the party and its achievements over the last five years.

Pussycat Dolls didn’t want to remix 'Jai Ho!’

2009-03-23T08:13:00.001-07:00

A R Rahman’s remixed version of Jai Ho by the Pussycat Dolls (PCD) has rocked the West and got rave reviews too. But surprisingly, it is now learned that lead singer Nicole Scherzinger never wanted to do this version!

Nicole, who otherwise loves everything Indian — especially dressing up in colourful bindis and dupatas, is quoted on the website Desi Hits! “I was scared, I was afraid to let people hear it, I really didn’t want to do it,” she told Anjula Achari Bath of the website.
The sexy singer was hesitant not because she didn’t like the song, but because the song was already amazing. “I didn’t want to recreate Rahman’s work,” said Nicole, who was inspired by the film and emotionally touched by the track.

Music producer Jimmy Iovine brought the idea of remixing Jai Ho to Nicole. After giving it a lot of thought and after talking things over with him, she thought it would be a great opportunity to put her own English translation into the song. She knew this was a difficult task as she highly respected the original track. “I prayed every night to do this right,” she said. She was so moved by the film that she wanted to be sure to incorporate themes from Slumdog Millionaire such as destiny and love into the song.

Nicole has never been to India but now wants to do charity work here. “I know Jessica (Jessica Sutta, another member of PCD) has already been to Rishikesh and is strongly involved with a charity that works towards improving the lives of children there and I want to go to the orphanages of India,” she said.

I’ve always been an AR Rahman fan: Aishwarya Rai

2009-03-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

Bollywood actor and former beauty queen Aishwarya Rai Bachchan said that she has always been a fan of double-Oscar winner AR Rahman, and feels fortunate that maximum of her films featured maestro’s music.

“Working with Rahman has been an absolute pleasure. It's not just from Taal to Guru, but it''s from Iruvar till Ravana.

In fact, maximum of my films have enjoyed the music of Rahman and as a music lover and fan, I have always admired his music and he is a gifted musician,” Rai said, while addressing a press conference in Kolkata.

The Bollywood actress, who was in Kolkata for the shooting of her upcoming flick Ravana, said she was elated at Rahman’s double win at the Oscars for Slumdog Millionaire.

Rai added, though Rahman was very much celebrated in India but winning Oscar meant the global recognition, which was special.

Talking about Hollywood flick The Pink Panther 2, Rai said the experience of working with actor Steve Martin has been enriching.

“Working with Steve Martin was a good experience since he is the institution of comedy. We grew up watching his movies. So when it came to working with him and since he had already worked in Pink Panther before, so you know the kind of film you are going to be a part of. I am very happy that I got a chance to work with all these great actors because I feel experience is the greatest teacher of all,” the Bollywood star said.

Comparing her character in Ravana with the one in hardcore Hollywood flick, Pink Panther, the former Miss World said her characters in both the films were quite challenging.

“These are very different. One is Mani Ratnam and the other Pink Panther. So you can assume what the audience can expect. Those who watch English movie know about Pink Panther. Mani Ratnam is the kind of filmmaker we know he is, so he will present that kind of cinema only,” Rai opined.

Magic musician AR Rahman turns ‘Dr’ AR Rahman

2009-03-08T11:56:00.000-07:00

Mumbai, Mar 04: More accolades are coming across music maestro AR Rahman’s way! Small wonder, as the magic musician has made the nation proud by bagging two Oscars for his melodious creations in ‘Slumdog Millionaire’.

The reticent, media shy, affable, and down-to-earth composer will be awarded an honorary doctorate by the prestigious Anna University, Chennai, in recognition of his exemplary achievements.

Apart from the composer, space scientist Mayilsamy Annadurai and Local Administration Minister M K Stalin will also be awarded the doctorates at the convocation. The special convocation is to be held towards March-end.

On return from the Oscars, Rahman had said, “It’s a starting point for a lot in my career.” We agree, and we hope that God keeps our favourite ‘Allah Rakha’ in his grace!

A.R.Rahman-Airtel alliance continues

2009-03-08T11:54:00.000-07:00

A.R.Rahman became Airtel’s brand ambassador in 2002. The brand campaign for Airtel in 2002 featuring AR Rahman was the first time he had appeared in a television commercial. When Rahman composed the tune, Airtel has two million customers. Today Airtel has over 90 million customers and the Airtel signature tune composed by A R Rahman is world’s most downloaded piece of mobile music in the world with over 60 million downloads.
Incidentally, this tune has made its appearance in several forms including car reverse music. A R Rahman also composed an exclusive soundtrack to commemorate the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon in 2008.

The National Centre for Performing Arts is presenting “An Evening of Classical Music & Dance” with Buddhadev Dasgupta (Sarod), Sunayana Hazarilal (Kathak), and Zakir Hussain (Tabla) at Tata Theatre on March 2 in collaboration with Natawari.
Barasat Rang, Dhrupad and Khayal Compositions on Holi sung by Ram Deshpande and Sanjeev Abhayankar will be presented at the Experimental Theatre on March 6. The concert celebrates Holi.
Nad Ninad: From Our Archives will be a Guided Listening Session on Vilayat Khan at the Experimental Theatre on March 13 in collaboration with the Indian Musicological Society.

This is a programme that makes available to lovers of Hindustani classical music some of NCPA’s archival recordings. This month, it’s the music of the late sitar maestro Ustad Vilayat Khan of the Imdadkhani-Etawah gharana. This session will be conducted by the sitar maestro Arvind Parikh.
The Vienna Chamber Orchestra with its Artistic Director Stefan Vladar and Conductor Joji Hattori will present a Western Music Concert at the Jamshed Bhabha Theatre on April 15 in collaboration with Embassy of Austria and Indian Council for Cultural Relations.

The Vienna Chamber Orchestra has performed earlier to rapturous acclaim at the NCPA under the baton of Associate Conductor Joji Hattori, who has held that position since 2003.

Living Traditions: A Rajasthani Extravaganza, a folk Dance and Music Performance will be held at the Experimental Theatre on March 20 and 2 in partnership with Jaipur Virasat Foundation.

Over two evenings, the best of the Rajasthan region in an explosion of performing arts forms will see over 60 artistes and a variety of folk dances, traditional musicians and instruments. On March 20, those featured will include Bhanwari Devi from Shekhawati who sings with strength and soul in the bhopa/ bhopi tradition, Suguna, a musician from the Kalbeliya community from Marwar-Jodhpur, Parveen Mirza from the Maand tradition of the royal house of Shahapura, Jaipur gharana; the colourful dances, the Tehra Taali of the Kamad ‘jaati’ of Pali and the Chakri dance of the Kanjar community from Chachhoda, Baran. These are among the best from a variety of traditional forms that are exclusively performed by women.

On the 21st, an evening with Rajasthan’s best known traditional musicians and dancers. Padmaramji, one of the senior-most singers from the Meghwal community of Kundal, Jaisalmer, sings bhajans by poets in the Nirguna tradition, such as Ravidas, Surdas, Kabir and Meerabai. He will use the tandoora as accompaniment. There will also be featured the sons of the Langa and Manganiyar community elders from the villages near Barmer and Jodhpur, boys who have honed their own talent by accompanying their fathers to vocal performances for their patrons. Jumma Khan ‘jogi’ and his Bhapang party are from the Mev community from Alwar (Mewat region) who are a significant name in the Jogi (or Yogi) tradition of singers who still compose songs with a contemporary social and political relevance. The evening ends with two unusual dance forms of the state, one with a group of deru players and dancers from the Churu region in Shekhawati and a fast-paced finale by the traditional male dancers from Tonk, Jaipur, performed to the mellifluous notes of the traditional instrument, the algoza.
Arties Festival India - March 2009 will present a Chamber Music Festival at the Experimental Theatre on March 26 and at the Tata Theatre on March 28 and 29.

Kylie Minogue thrilled to work with AR Rahman

2009-03-08T11:52:00.001-07:00

Aussie pop star Kylie Minogue says she was thrilled to work with Oscar winning music director AR Rahman in Bollywood film Blue. The 40-year-old singer plays herself in the film, and also performs a set-piece song-and-dance routine in the underwater thriller starring Akshay Kumar , Sanjay Dutt and Katrina Kaif.

"It was an incredible experience (to work with AR Rahman),” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted her as saying. "I met AR Rahman at the BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) awards (in London last month). I couldn't believe I was doing a song with him in Bollywood so soon after," she added.

The film is about a sunken treasure ship and is said to have been inspired by the Hollywood production, The Deep. On being asked if she would like to be a part of some of the Bollywood movies in future, Minogue said she would certainly consider.

"I got a lot of love here. Right now this feeling is just sinking in but certainly in future I will do more if I get the chance,” she said. "I didn't know much of Hindi but it does not matter because everyone was very cooperative and I had fun and joy. I Wanted to be part of Bollywood for a while and it was great opportunity that came by," she added.

Congress Party gets copyright for AR Rahman’s Jai Ho song

2009-03-08T11:50:00.000-07:00

Congress Party has got copyright for AR Rahman’s Jai Ho song. The song has become extremely popular not only in India but across the world.

The song also gave AR Rahman an Oscar this year. He won another Oscar too this year.

India’s ruling Congress party has decided to adopt the song ‘Jai Ho’ from the movie ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ as it’s theme song for the coming Lok Sabha elections.

The party has bought the rights to A.R. Rahman’s song from Danny Boyle’s film and the tune from music company T-Series, said a senior Congress leader. The Congress plans to use the song to convey the message that the Congress-led government has been a saga of hope for the common man.

Earlier the Congress party had used the song from Shah Rukh Khan’s movie Chak De! India. It was a song that was on everyone’s lips.

A R Rahman arrives Chennai with Oscar Awards Welcome Reception Images

2009-02-26T19:19:00.000-08:00

About Rahman, Resul Pookutty ( Oscar award Winner )

2009-02-25T03:40:00.000-08:00

Rahman, Resul Jai Ho', 'Jai Ho Rehman, Resul', 'Resul, Rehman, Jai Ho', 'Jai Ho Resul, Rehman'... that's how the Slumdog Millionaire excitement looked in the headlines of dailies on Tuesday morning.
When Resul Pookutty became the fifth Indian and the first Malayali to win an Oscar, Vilakkupara, a village off Kollam, joined predictable datelines of Los Angeles, Mumbai and Chennai. Pookutty's family celebrated the moment at their ancestral house.

Even though Pookutty didn't quote Hindi dialogues or Tamil adages to the glitterati at Kodak Theatre, his Om speech became a hit. BJP daily Janmabhumi was so excited by the acknowledgement that it carried an additional edit on page 1 titled Omkara in Oscar.

"The unexpected words form Resul Pookutty eclipsed all announcements at the 81st Oscar. None of those who represented India at Oscar or other international fora has made such a declaration. Pookutty, who dedicated the award to the country, said he comes from a land which contributed a great sound to the world. When he said Om was that sound, the Keralite was referring to the secular Indian heritage."

Limelight on Vilakkupara (Madhyamam), A moment of prayer for this village (Chandrika), Vilakkupara to Oscar light (Janmabhumi) -- Pookutty's village hogged space on front pages. Malayala Manorama went to town with the second lead, Kerala at the Oscars. Editorials and comments galore.

Rehman, too, was a homegrown boy. His father RK Sekhar had composed a number of songs for Malayalam movies, where he worked with legends like G Devarajan.
Though Gulzar, who wrote the academy award-winning song Jai Ho, gave all credit to Rehman, dailies gave him due acknowledgement. Manorama and Mathrubhumi had Gulzar on the front page.

In the blinding limelight, everything else was eclipsed. chief minister VS Achuthanandan's land distribution in Munnar went to inside pages. Finance minister TM Thomas Isaac saw post-budget discussions coming to an abrupt end. CPI(M) secretary Pinarayi Vijayan's and Congress state chief Ramesh Chennithala's road shows were relegated to the backdrop. After all, Oscars don't come everyday.

Slumdog boosts Rahman CDs and Q&A sales

2009-02-25T03:39:00.001-08:00

Slumdog Millionaire has had its moment of glory with it's eight Oscar sweeps. Everybody now wants a piece of the film, so it comes as no surprise that there has been an increased interest in the book from which the film's screenplay's been adapted - Q&A written by author and diplomat Vikas Swarup.

"Who could've imagined this book I wrote in my posting in London in 2003 would go on to become such a big international phenomenon," said Swarup.

Sales of the book have increased since the movie started creating a buzz last September. Oxford Bookstore and Crossword India confirmed to CNN-IBN.

The book was re-released as Slumdog Millionaire just when the Oscar nominations were announced in January, hooking even more readers.

And this sudden interest is not just limited to the book, the film's Oscar winning soundtrack by A R Rahman too has a whole new league of takers .

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The Oscar nominations were announced on January 22 and since then nearly 2,400 audio CDs were sold all over India. And with the film being made tax free in states like Haryana, this Slumdog is all set to be a millionaire.

It's the inquisitiveness that has helped drive the sales of the British production Slumdog Millionaire. It's a film which India will be proud of for a long, long time.

Rahman dedicates Oscars to god, mother

2009-02-24T12:55:00.001-08:00

LOS ANGELES: "Ella pughalum iraivanuke (All glory and fame is to god)" was how music maestro A R Rahman reacted to his double-Oscar feat

Besides god, the 'Mozart of Madras' also dedicated his Oscars to his "loving" mother Kareema Begum, who was seated among the audience at the Kodak theatre.

Rahman has always dedicated his awards to them. "I always had a choice between love and hate in my life. And I chose love and I am here," a beaming Rahman said at the Awards Ceremony.

Having shouldered the responsibilities of his family at the tender age of 9, Rahman never had an opportunity to get proper education in his life.

Kareema Begum had in an interview to a Tamil weekly said she will feel bad forever for not giving her son an opportunity to enjoy his childhood days.

Raja of Roja (Rahman) becomes Osc'AR Rahman'

2009-02-24T12:53:00.000-08:00

As A R Rahman tapped his feet to `O Sayya' and belted out `Jai Ho!' for the audience in Hollywood, the transformation was complete. The Music composer AR Rahman wins two Oscars for Best Original Song and Original Score for 'Slumdog Millionaire'. (AP Photo) More Pictures shy, nervous Dilip Kumar who never spoke, the boy who never looked up, the boy who used to turn out the lights before he sang in front of anyone, had morphed into an international star.

He always knew he wanted to be famous. He dreamt — and told his friends too — that he wanted his music to be played all over the world. But it was a dream that took a long time to realize. As a young boy of 11, Rahman, then known as Dilip Kumar, saw his father R K Sekhar, a music arranger and composer, die of cancer. He didn't have time to mourn though, he had to pick up from where his father had left off and earn for the family of five. While his three sisters focused on academics, the young Dilip never managed to give books enough time. In the words of his teachers in Padma Seshadri Bala Bhavan, the school he went to until the ninth grade, ``He managed to scrape through.''

The young ARR spent all his time after school at the recording studio, playing keyboards for composers (having got the first set of job offers thanks to the goodwill of his father). There were days when his mother would be seen waiting for him outside school in the morning, uniform and breakfast in hand, according to his teachers. A studio van would drop off the tired Dilip who would be fed and changed by his mother before being rushed to school. The only reason the school remembers him is that during all the school programmes they needed him to play the keyboard — he was the best in school. He would also be called out of the classroom whenever there was a recording because his family simply could not afford to say no.

ARR had finally to drop out of Padma Seshadri in the ninth grade, and then out of school altogether, midway through class XI because he could not cope with both his studies and work. ``When I was a teenager, I was spending most of my time with 50-year-olds and 60-year-olds. They were very sweet people, yes. I felt I was one among them, it took a while to realise that I was actually much younger,'' says Rahman about his early life as a musician in the film industry when he played his keyboard for bigwigs of the Tamil industry such as Ilayaraja.

``What I learnt from them were values and ethics. And then there were things I learned not to do...I learned not to become complacent,'' he adds. ``And to look beyond what you are forbidden to look beyond.''

A lot has changed in A R Rahman's life over the years in terms of his personality as well as his music, but the two most important aspects of his life remain constant — God and his mother. He doesn't just say it every time he is on stage because it seems like the right thing to say. He truly believes that the first is the driving force in his life, the reason he is who he is. The second, quite simply, is the reason he is where he is.

A R Rahman: UN Partner For Musical Show

2009-02-24T12:50:00.000-08:00

Washington, New Delhi, Oct 22 (UNI) Musical maestro A R Rehman has partnered with the United Nations and Endemol for a musical show for a cause. In what can be seen as a first initiative of its kind on Indian television, the legendary music director and singer Rehman, the United Nations and Endemol partner with the soon-to-be-launched Hindi General Entertainment Channel, 9X, for an entertaining show aimed at communicating the essence of the Millennium Development Goals across the length and breadth of the country.

Titled 'Mission Ustaad', the show will feature Rehman and some of the best singers, and entertainers, who will provide riveting musical entertainment for a cause.

Speaking on their channel's association with Rahman, promoter and group executive director, INX Media, Indrani Mukerjea, said,''It gives us great pleasure to partner with A R Rehman, the United Nations and Endemol India to present this unique show on Indian television.

I am convinced that the partnership would bring about the desired awakening among Indian viewers
Besides entertaining millions of viewers on 9X, 'Mission Ustaad' would communicate the essence of the Millennium Development Goals across the length and breadth of the country. We are confident that along with the rest of the line-up of the upcoming programmes on 9X, 'Mission Ustaad' would truly capture the hearts of the Indian viewers.''

Commenting on the show, A R Rehman said,''I am delighted to be part of 'Mission Ustaad' on 9X, where I would be joined by many eminent names from the entertainment industry. I am convinced that the partnership between 9X, UN and Endemol would bring about the desired awakening among Indian viewers, and the show would touch the hearts of the nation in a very entertaining manner.''

Said the UN Resident Coordinator, Maxine Olson,''we want to make poverty history through awareness and action around the MDGs. We believe 'Mission Ustaad', our joint endeavour, would inspire millions to action and thereby fulfill every Indian’s right to decent work, education and good health.''

Added the Director of the United Nations Millennium Campaign, Salil Shetty,''If India does not achieve the MDGs by 2015, the world would not achieve them. For the marginalised people of India - - the Dalits, the adivasis, minorities, and particularly women - - the Goals offer a real hope to achieve better education, health and livelihoods.

'Mission Ustaad' will act as a reminder that time is running out.'' At the United Nations Millennium Summit in 2000, world leaders committed their nations to stronger global efforts to reduce poverty, improve health, promote peace, human rights and environmental sustainability.

On behalf of their people, they signed the Millennium Declaration and set out a series of time-bound targets -- the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) -- with a deadline of 2015,. India is among the 192 countries that have pledged to achieve the MDGs: the right of each person on the planet to food, decent work, health, education and shelter.

Rahman's Jai ho echoes at the Oscars

2009-02-24T12:48:00.001-08:00

It was a remarkable journey from Chennai to Hollywood for music maestro Allah Rakha Rahman who made a billion Indians proud, adding another feather in his cap by bagging two Oscars for his score in Slumdog Millionaire.

It was a Jai ho for the soft-spoken Rahman, hailed by Time Magazine as the 'Mozart of Madras', when he walked to receive the award for Best Original Score and Best Song Jai Ho.

The 'Mozart of Madras', who redefined contemporary Indian music and has been a role model for millions of Indians, has already won a Golden Globe and a BAFTA for his music in Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire.

The 43-year-old music wizard, who has enthralled audience in the country and abroad with his heartwarming symphonies, is creating waves on the international stage with his composition in Slumdog Millionaire.

Born as A S Dileep Kumar in a musically affluent family in Chennai on January 6, 1966, he changed his name to Allah Rakha Rahman after his family converted to Islam in the late 1980's.

Rahman was forced to shoulder the responsibilities of his family at the age of nine after his father R K Shekhar, who was a composer, arranger and conductor for Malayalam movies, died due to illness.

The music genius came to the limelight with his music for a Bombay Dyeing ad and Leo Coffee in 1980's which became very popular.

But the major break in his career came when noted filmmaker Mani Ratnam approached Rahman, who was then a keyboard player with composer Illayaraja, to compose for his film Roja in 1992.

The music of the film, which was a refreshing change from the run-of-the-mill renditions, made Rahman a star overnight and brought him his maiden Best Music Director trophy at the National Film Awards, the first time ever by a debutante film composer.

Rahman was introduced to the Hindi film industry in Ram Gopal Verma's Rangeela. The music of the film became a rage and the genius continued to give some brilliant compositions for films such as Bombay, Dil Se, Taal, Lagaan and Rang De Basanti among others.

What made Rahman's music click with the listeners was the refreshing use of percussions, sound and melody, most of which were inspired from the Indian folk music.

Rahman developed a trademark by mixing traditional Indian tunes with International beats from African drums to electronic funk. The composer is also famous for his fondness to the newest sound and technologies in the world of music.

His 1998 super-hit composition Chaiyya Chaiyya which was deeply rooted in Sufi mysticism, became a rage among Indians and is still considered one of the best compositions of the musician.

Rahman gradually became a known face on the international platform and in 1999 he performed with Michael Jackson in Munich for Michael Jackson and Friends Concert.

In 2002, he gave the music for his maiden stage production Bombay Dreams directed by legendary musical theatre composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber. Rahman's music was also a hit from London's West End to New York's Broadway.

In 2004, with Finnish folk music band Varttina, he composed the music for The Lord of the Rings theater production.

Rahman's composition Jai Ho for British director Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire has been lapped up by western audiences and made headlines when world renowned fashion designer John Galliano used it as a theme during his fashion show.

The music has already earned him the Critics Choice Award for Best Composer in 2008 and the Golden Globe in the category of Best Original Score.

A four-time National Award winner, Rahman was honoured with the Padma Shri and received six awards at the Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, besides 11 awards for his scores at the Filmfare and Filmfare Awards South each.

In 2006, he received an honorary award from Stanford University for his contributions to global music. In 1995, he also received the Mauritius National Award and a Malaysian Award.

The music director, who is known for his humble demeanour, gave a new definition to patriotism with his modern rendition of Vande Mataram. His latest tract Jiya Se Jiya is another attempt to send the message of peace and love through music.

Rahman, who maintains a low-profile, tied the knot with Sairo Bano in 1995 and the couple has three children -- Khadijah, Rahima and Aman.

The music composer is also involved with charitable causes and had conducted concerts to raise funds for cancer patients.

In 2004, Rahman was appointed as the global ambassador of the Stop TB partnership, a project by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

He also recently launched the A R Rahman foundation, which is a step towards eradication of hunger and poverty.

A R Rahman's wife walks the red carpet

2009-02-24T12:46:00.001-08:00

Oscar-winning music maestro A.R. Rahman's media-shy better half Saira Banu walked the red carpet at the Kodak Theatre here for the 81st Annual Academy Awards.

Clad in a black kurta-churidar by Sabyasachi Mukherjee, the demure wife of the maestro has by choice always maintained her distance from the limeligh till date. She was not a much known face among the Indians, let alone on the global platform before appearing at the awards.

Saira Banu was all over the TV screens worldwide when she walked the red carpet clinging to her husband's right arm throughout the ceremony.

Not much of a speaking lot, both husband and wife have had perhaps the maximum number of public appearances courtesy the worldwide success of Danny Boyle's Mumbai-based rags-to-riches story Slumdog Millionaire.

Rahman won two golden statuettes - for best original song Jai ho and best original score for the film.

A R Rahman deserves the Oscar awards

2009-02-24T12:42:00.001-08:00

The world is roaring at his feet. He was India’s past; he is truly India’s present and will for sure be India’s future too. The 81st Academy Awards will forever remain and will be cherished not just by the ace musician, but will be celebrated by every Indian living across the nation. Yes, A.R. Rahman is certainly the man of the moment, a name which is famous even on the slum children’s mouth.

Indian music maestro, A.R. Rahman has won two Oscars awards for Best Original song for “Jai Ho” and best background score. Rahman's win comes as the crowning glory and he truly deserves the honour, not just for this movie, but for the fabulous music he has been making for over a decade. Our heartiest congratulation goes to the musical genius A.R. Rahman. Let us take a sneak peak at his filmi (musical) career graph.

Born in Madras (now Chennai) on 6th January, 1966, Allah Rakha Rahman. Rahman played many instruments and later joined people like Zakir Hussain, M.S. Vishwanathan, and Ramesh Naidu on world tours. He soon obtained a degree in Trinity college, Oxford where he graduated with a degree in western classical music.

Rahman tasted the fruit of success in 1992 by providing music score and sound track to Mani Ratnam’s Roja. He was awarded with Rajat Kamal and best music director at National film awards.

Rahman worked wonders in many Tamil and Telugu movies. Some of his noted and renowned work in Hindi cinema which created a vibe for more than a decade are Roja (1992), Bombay (1995), Rangeela (1995), Fire(1996), Daud (1997), Dil Se, Earth (1998), Taal (1998), Zubeidaa, Nayak (2000), Lagaan (2001), Sathiya (2002), Lakeer, Meenaxi (2003), Yuva, Kisna, Swades (2004), Rang De Basanti, Guru (2006), Jodhaa Akbar, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, Yuvraaj, Ghajini (2008), Slumdog Millionaire, Delhi 6 (2009). Rahman is working on many more projects which are yet to create history.

This is just a brief on the great renowned singer. He is truly a masterpiece in his department. He is certainly someone who has redefined the meaning of music and things related to music. We hope he brings us many more Oscars in the years to come. Jai Ho!

Oscar 81st Annual Academy Awards 2009 Complete List of Winners (Results)!

2009-02-23T12:51:00.002-08:00

Slumdog Millionaire Bagged (Eight Out of Ten Awards):

Original Song - “Jai Ho,” A.R. Rahman and Gulzar for Slumdog Millionaire

Original Score - A.R. Rahman for Slumdog Millionaire

Best Picture - Slumdog Millionaire

Director - Danny Boyle for Slumdog Millionaire

Adapted Screenplay - Simon Beaufoy for Slumdog Millionaire

Cinematography - Slumdog Millionaire

Film Editing - Slumdog Millionaire

Sound Mixing - Slumdog Millionaire

Actor in a Leading Role - Sean Penn for Milk

Actress in a Leading Role - Kate Winslet for The Reader

Actor in a Supporting Role - Heath Ledger for The Dark Knight

Actress in a Supporting Role - Penélope Cruz for Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Art Direction - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Original Screenplay - Dustin Lance Black for Milk

Animated Feature Film - WALL-E

Foreign Language Film - Departures from Japan

Makeup - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Costume Design - The Duchess

Animated Short Film - La Maison en Petits Cubes

Live Action Short Film - Spielzeugland

Sound Editing - The Dark Knight

Visual Effects - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Documentary Feature - Man on Wire

Documentary Short Subject - Smile Pinki

Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award - Jerry Lewis

A R Rahman wins two Oscars

2009-02-23T12:51:00.001-08:00

A R Rahman wins two Oscars awards as he wins the millions of hearts with his musical magic. A R Rahman won the best original song award for the song Jai Ho which was penned by Gulzar. While receving the first award he ended his speech as “Mera Pass Maa Hai” (I have my mom with me) and he dedicated his award to God as Yella Puzhalum Iraivanukke (all praises to God).

A R Rahman Getting Oscar

2009-02-22T22:19:00.000-08:00

Jay Ho Remix Pussycat Dolls

2009-02-11T17:44:00.000-08:00

Jay Ho Song Remixed for PussyCat Dolls. The Golden Globe Award winning Song Jay Ho from Slum Dog Millianare, Composed By the Indian Music legend A R Rahman. Hear It From Here or Download It...

Below click on the Download Link...

Download

AR RAHMAN RECIEVING BAFTA AWARD

2009-02-10T18:24:00.000-08:00

Dear Rahmaniac Brothers & Sisters, see our Boss winning BAFTA [British Academy of Film and Television Arts] AWARD. It is considered as the toppest award for movies in U.K. It is cited as a British equivalent to the Oscars.

A R Rahman hopes to win at least one Oscar

2009-02-08T17:59:00.001-08:00

London, Feb 6 (PTI) Indian music maestro A R Rahman, who has bagged three Academy Award nominations in two categories for his compositions in 'Slumdog Millionaire', believes he will win at least one Oscar with "God's blessings".
"I hope, we get at least one (Oscar). I cannot wait for the announcement," Rahman was today quoted in The Daily Telegraph as saying.

Only two Indians have ever won an Oscar -- costume designer Bhanu Athaiya for Gandhi (1982) and renowned filmmaker Satyajit Ray who received a lifetime achievement award in 1992.

However, with three Academy Award nominations this year for Slumdog Millionaire - one for overall score and for two songs - the Chennai-based composer looks likely to be the third, the report said.

He is also up for the Best Music award at Sunday night's Baftas.

"We've been waiting for this for 80 years," said Rahman.

"I believe that whatever comes at a particular time is a blessing from God," he said.

While Rahman first came to the attention of Western audiences with his film music for Elizabeth: The Golden Age (2007) and stage shows Bombay Dreams and The Lord of the Rings, his already stellar profile will go into overdrive should be win the Oscar on Feb 22. PTI

Music maestro AR Rahman is the ‘Global Indian of the Year’

2009-02-02T10:53:00.000-08:00

Mumbai, Feb 02: After bagging the ‘Golden Globe’ honour and enlisting himself for the biggest international recognition - the Oscars, AR Rahman was honoured with the ‘Global Indian Award’ by a news channel.

The music maestro, whose tremendous efforts in music has won several accolades across the world, is the new face of India internationally. His humble and modest nature is often an addition to superlative personality.

Though absent, AR Rahman was represented by his mother and sister at the award ceremony. On receiving the honour, Rahman said in a video recorded recognition speech, “I pay my respect to everyone – my family, my friends and my fans, who have always prayed for my success, I am thankful to all of them.”

“Every art is special - be it acting, dancing or singing. I am glad to know that music is the first in peoples’ minds and that is what has brought me where I am today. I owe my success to you all. This success is a message to all the musicians, their works should be aimed towards the progress of a collective nation.”

Overwhelmed by Rahman’s success, his sister said, “I am very happy that my brother has been honoured for his work.”

Adding weight to the extravaganza, renowned musician Pandit Ravi Shankar said, “We are waiting for Rahman’s success at the Oscars, too. But, above all that, I would like to state that AR Rahman is a genius.”

Well, we all agree to that!

DELHI 6 Songs MP3

2009-01-30T13:02:00.000-08:00

Download Delhi 6 Mp3 Songs from here...

Starring
Abhishek Bachchan ....
Sonam Kapoor ....
Waheeda Rahman ....
Rishi Kapoor ....
Om Puri ....
Atul Kulkarni ....
Divya Dutta ....

Director : Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Lyricist : Prasoon Joshi
Musician : A R Rahman

Bhor Bhaye

Delhi 6

Dil Gira Dafatan

Genda Phool

Hey Kaala Bandar

Masakali

Noor

RehnaTu

AR Rahman to remix Jai Ho with Pussycat Dolls

2009-01-29T00:07:00.000-08:00

The American girl band Pussy Cat Dolls are known for their sometimes cheeky pop and dance tunes that even got them a Grammy nomination for their 2005 self titled album.

But who would have imagined that our simple and far from cheeky composer A R Rahman is planning to team up with them to give his Oscar nominated track Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire a funky twist that would make it a fresh single all together.

Meanwhile, back home, musicians like Bandish Project are not waiting for Rahman's proposal to mix the soundtrack around. Ahmedabad boys Mayur Navekar and Udayan Sagar - who've spent a decade doing Asian electronica - have produced their own remix of Oh Saya as have a few other lesser known DJ's.

"There is potential in the track to reach out as a dance version," says Navekar.

These remixes and more have made their way to the decks of many clubs.

The score to Slumdog Millionaire is party hopping quite a bit along its way to the Oscars and if Rahman wins, not only will the party versions of its tracks multiply but DJ's and remixers will have probably be queuing up at Rahman's doorstep to let them take out an official remix album all together of the entire soundtrack.

With three Oscar nominations, India certainly has its eyes on AR Rahman. And we've now learnt that he's receiving the same attention in the west.

It has emerged that AR Rahman will be remixing the song 'Jai Ho' with the Pussycat Dolls. The sexy ladies will be joining forces with Rahman for the remix video track of 'Jai Ho'. The original song done by Indian rap-bhangra artiste Sukhwinder Singh will now feature Pussycat Dolls in its video version. The singer has reportedly hooked up with American music producer Jimmy Iovine for the said album.

I am deliriously happy: A R Rahman

2009-01-24T08:00:00.001-08:00

The honour of being the first Indian music director to be nominated for three Oscars sits lightly on the shoulders of A.R. Rahman, who attributes his success and fame to divinity.

"Allah the merciful has blessed Indian music. I am lucky to be one of his chosen representatives," said Rahman.

The humble music maestro is, however, proud of India's musical heritage.

"Our scintillating sounds have moved billions for ages. Our musical gurus could make the oceans throb and the skies pour nectar to quench mother earth's thirst. But we have waited for eight decades for this sort of recognition," said Rahman.

Rahman received the three Oscar nominations for the music he composed for British filmmaker Danny Boyle's rags-to-riches Bollywood style musical Slumdog Millionaire. While one nomination is for best original score, two are for the best original songs - Jai ho and O saya.

"My inspiration to compose the music was the movie, its thought and the message in the film," he said.

"I am already deliriously happy about the nominations. But the happiness will be manifold if and when we get at least one Oscar," Rahman added.

After winning a Golden Globe award for his music for the same film earlier this month, Rahman had said: "For the people of India to get an Oscar is a big thing. So for their sake, more than mine, I hope my song Jai ho and my music score in Slumdog Millionaire win the Oscar."

Born as A.S. Dileep Kumar on Jan 6, 1966, Rahman's family converted to Islam in 1989. His father R.K. Shekhar, a music arranger for Malayalam films, died when Rahman was just nine years old. The family earned its living by hiring out musical instruments.

Rahman began his musical Odyssey at the age of 11 as an accompanist in a troupe that hired his father's wares. It was run by the then rage of Tamil films Ilayaraja.

Soon Rahman was also seen in the company of another maestro M.S. Vishwanathan. His arranging in the band Roots with childhood friend and percussionist par excellence Sivamani provided opportunities to create jingles, musical ambiences for television serials and documentaries.

Rahman got his first big break in Mani Ratnam's "Roja" and later composed music for many films in southern India. His first full-fledged Bollywood project was Ram Gopal Varma's hit "Rangeela". Most of the songs, including "Tanha Tanha", "Hai Rama" and "Yaaro sun lo Zara", were chartbusters. After that there was no looking back for him.

In the late 90s, S.S. International, one of the earliest FM radio companies, approached Rahman for a byte on New Year.

"My late husband Aiyappan went with his portable recorder and was asked to wait by Rahman 'for a few minutes' that lasted for almost three hours," recalled the company's director A. Chitra.

"Finally, Rahman came out from his music room with a cassette that had a short composition. When it was broadcast, fan mail flooded us for a fortnight. They were enough to fill 10 sacks," Chitra added.

Rahman became a household name with soulful compositions in Dil Se , 1947 Earth, Taal, Lagaan, Guru, Rang De Basanti and Jodhaa Akbar.

Rahman not only won hearts in India, but also made a mark on the global music scene. He got his first international break when Andrew Lloyd Webber invited him to compose music for Broadway musical Bombay Dreams, which won him immense international fame. He also composed for the stage adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord Of The Rings that premiered in Canada in 2006 and in London in 2007.

Rahman launched his first full-fledged orchestra last year. It has been named Global Music and is the first homegrown orchestra.

He is all set to enthral his fans with his upcoming projects Delhi-6 and Blue.

A.R. Rahman: I am so elated … we’ve been waiting for 80 year

2009-01-23T10:19:00.000-08:00

CHENNAI: When A.R. Rahman bagged three Oscar nominations on Thursday, one for original
score and two in the original song category — ‘Jai Ho,’ with lyricist Gulzar and ‘O saya’ with lyricist Maya Arulpragasam — it was a dream come true for India.
“We have been waiting for this for nearly 80 years, haven’t we?” I am so elated,” A.R. Rahman told The Hindu on Thursday, soon after the nominations were declared.

Another nomination for the film in the sound mixing category has added to his joy. “I am really happy. I hope we get at least one award,” he said with a chuckle.

“It is an amazing moment. I cannot wait for the announcement,” he said, one month ahead of the Oscars night when Indians may have a chance to hold one or more of the coveted statuettes.

These are among the 10 nominations that the Golden Globe-winning Slumdog Millionaire got.

Rahman Capured 3 Oscar nominations, Slumdog ... 10

2009-01-23T10:15:00.000-08:00

BEVERLY HILLS: Inching closer towards an Oscar, composer A R Rahman on Thursday got himself nominated for three Academy awards for his score in British-Indian movie "Slumdog Millionaire", which was in all shortlisted for 10 categories including best film and best director.

"Something good is happening and I am really happy about it," was the reaction of Rahman, who became the first Indian to win a triple Oscar nomination.

43-year-old Rahman was nominated for Best Original Score and the numbers 'Jai Ho' and 'O Saya' were shortlisted for the Best Original Song.

Close on the heels of the dual-language film winning four Golden Globes, including one for Rahman, earlier this month, Danny Boyle and Simon Beaufoy were shortlisted for best director and best adapted screenplay categories.

The film also won nominations in cinematography, sound mixing, sound editing and film editing.

David Fincher's romantic periodical "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button", starring Brad Pitt, topped this year's race with a whopping 13 nominations.

The nominations were announced at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' Samuel Goldwyn Theatre by Oscar-winning actor Forest Whitaker. The winners will be named on February 22 at Hollywood's Kodak Theatre.

Only two Indian have won the coveted Oscar till date, Bhanu Athaiya (for costume design in "Gandhi") and Satyajit Ray, who was given an honorary Oscar for his contribution to films. (MORE)

This is also the first time that an Indian has won more than one nomination in Oscars history.

Reacting to the nominations, Rahman said, "I did not think it will get there. God has been really kind. And I have to really thank the prayers of all the people and their good wishes.

"There is a kind of optimism in the film and so much of positive vibes as you leave the movie hall."

In the original score category, Rahman will compete with Alexandre Desplat ("The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"), James Newton Howard ("Defiance"), Danny Elfman ("Milk") and Thomas Newman ("WALL-E").

Rahman will compete with Peter Gabriel and Thomas Newman ("Down to earth" from "WALL-E") in the original song category. Gulzar has penned the lyrics of "Jai Ho" and Mia Arulpragasam "O Saya".

Co-director Loveelyn Tandon said "We have proved everyone wrong. It's a crazy feeling beyond words. Ten nominations is something unbelievable." She said all Rahman's work has been awarded and the "world has finally woken up to his talent".

A R Rahman: Slumdog millionaire in his own right

2009-01-23T10:08:00.000-08:00

CHENNAI: "Chinna Chinna Aasai", a mellifluous Tamil song from the 1992 movie "Roja", set in the backdrop of a village in Tamil Nadu is apparently about small desires. The soothing instrumentals coupled with a gentle rendition made the song an instant hit, in the original Tamil version and the dubbed Hindi version "Dil Hain Chota Sa." In the last decade and a half, thousands of fans, as they hummed this song into the silence of nights, have come to realise that the desires the song lists out are anything but small. They are about reaching out to moon, and kissing it. They are about the world coming around oneself.

The song, which announced the arrival of AR Rahman on the Indian music scene, was prophetic. Almost like the song he first composed, Rahman's compositions, which first found a place in Tamil cinema, have in a span of 17 years, transcended regional, national and international borders.

Even before the news of his winning the Golden Globe sunk in, there was news about his getting three Oscar nominations for the music he composed for The Slumdog Millionaire, a historic feat and a proud moment for every Indian.

The Slumdog Millionaire, a rag to riches story of a boy who grows up in the slums of Mumbai, will probably strike a personal chord with the film's music director. The tireless perseverance and struggle to reach the top, in a way, reflects Rahman's own meteoric rise over the decades, after battling many a personal and financial hardship.

His father, a music composer himself, died when he was nine and his family had to rent out musical equipment to make ends meet. But, his mother, a pillar of strength and source of inspiration, ensured that financial strife did not come in the way of her son's aspirations.

"You have to go through many a hardship before you see the kind of success that Rahman has seen today," well-known percussionist A Sivamani told ET on Friday. "His strongest influence during his early years was his mother, who saw it to it that whatever Rahman wanted, was there for him," he added. Sivamani has known Rahman since he was 12 years old.

About the changes that he has seen in Rahman over the last 21 years, Sivamani said, "the only change is that he is very comfortable in front of the camera now. But, in terms of Rahman the person, he is still the same down-to-earth, simple person, who is in love with his art." On his long-time friend's Oscar nomination, he said, "it's a big thing for the country. If Rahman doesn't jump with joy, I will."

We can't be sure of Rahman winning an Oscar this time. But we are sure of this: if he wins, he will quietly walk up to the stage, listening perhaps to a beat that most others miss in the flamboyance of the event, recieve the coveted award with a shy smile, and give a very brief acceptance speech. As if he would rather have his music speak for him.

Whether in receiving the Golden Globe recently, or in receiving umpteen awards in India over the years, he has remained supremely composed.

Industry compatriots, friends and film critics, who have interacted with Rahman for long believe music, rather than awards, is his stimulant. There is a certain sense of even-temperedness and reticence that strikes you when you meet the music director. This, of course is completely in contrast to the persona he has among singers who have worked with him.

"He is really fun-loving and rarely gets angry. You feel really bad when you leave his studio after the recording," says singer Naresh Iyer, who made his debut in Rahman's Rang De Basanti and went on to win a National Award for the same. Carnatic singer Bombay Jayashree adds, "he is fun and forthcoming and knows exactly what he wants from a singer. You will sing 15-20 versions in his studio but the final cut will be completely different."

But, outside of the studio, Rahman prefers his music to do the talking. Ask him questions about what makes him successful and his standard reply is, "nothing. I believe that whatever comes at a particular time is a blessing from God."

Even if Rahman were to win an Oscar, it is highly unlikely that he will shift base abroad lured by new projects. His other international projects such as London Dreams and Lord of the Rings required him to spend two-thirds of his year in London a few years ago, not his idea of home or hearth. About his international sojourn, Rahman had told ET in an earlier interview, "I missed Chennai. London is a wonderful city, but it's not Chennai, not home."

AR Rahman : It’s all about the faith

2009-01-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

It’s prayer time for A R Rahman. After Slumdog Millionaire’s worldwide music acclaim, the music maestro has apparently become extra meticulous about rituals. Rahman said, “I have been particular about prayers for the last 15 years. With success and acknowledgement my faith and conviction in the strength of prayers has only increased ten folds.”

A source close to the musician revealed, “Even when Rahman has a tedious schedule, he makes it a point to offer Namaaz five times a day, especially so after the awards. Recently, he asked a producer to hold the release event of Delhi 6 music earlier so that he could attend the Friday Namaaz.”

Rahman confirmed this and said, “It’s true that I pray from 1 pm to 3 pm, so I requested the producers to wind up the event in the morning so that I get the afternoon free.”

Clarifying his stance on religion, he said, “Religious sounds rather vulgar these days, I am more of a spiritual person. And I believe in being consistent with my spirituality. As one grows in life, one realises the magnitude of spirituality. It is the most beautiful passion. It raises you above all the negativities. For me and my music, spirituality is the most important element and I don’t think I can create the kind of music I do, if I don’t practice spirituality.”

Rahman has taken Indian music to new heights: Gulzar

2009-01-16T07:27:00.000-08:00

New Delhi, Jan 14 (PTI) Noted lyricist Gulzar, who originally penned the 'Jai Ho' track for Rahman, feels that Rahman has taken Indian music to new heights by becoming the first Indian to win the Golden Globe awards for his music in 'Slumdog Millionaire'.
Rahman received the coveted prize for the Best Original Music Score for his track in British filmmaker Danny Boyle's Mumbai-based saga. The film went on to bag three more prestigious prizes at the 66th Golden Globe including the Best Film.

"Rahman is an great artist and with this win he has taken Indian music to new heights," Gulzar told PTI in an interview.

"I am very happy with 'Jai Ho' from 'Slumdog Millionaire' getting the Golden Globe. It means a lot for Indians and the music here," said Gulzar.

Interestingly, the award-winning song was originally penned by Gulzar for Subhash Ghai's film 'Yuvvraj' but went to 'Slumdog' after Ghai did not use it in his movie.

"I had written the song 'aaza aaza Shamiyane ke tale...' for Ghai's film 'Yuvvraj' but he felt the song did not suit his film and Rahman suggested that the track should be used in 'Slumdog' and it fitted well with the movie," Gulzar said.

"When we talked to Ghai about it he agreed readily and we are thankful to him for that," he added.

The veteran lyricist, who has paired with Rahman to give music for hits like 'Dil Se,' Sathiya,' 'Yuva,' Guru,' and 'Yuvvraj', feels that 'Jai Ho' is a great confluence of melody and love.

'Slumdog Millionaire' is the heartwarming underdog winner story of a Mumbai slumdweller Jamaal, who goes on to participate and win the Indian version of US reality show 'Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?' in his effor to win back his childhood love.

The film is releasing in India on January 23 in India. PTI

Jayalalithaa congratulates Rahman

2009-01-16T07:24:00.000-08:00

Chennai (PTI): AIADMK chief Jayalalithaa today congratulated music Director A R Rahman for winning the Golden Globe award..

In a letter to him, she said "it was with considerable pride and pleasure that I read about your winning the golden globe award for Best Original Music Score for 'Slumdog Millionare'. Pride, because you are the first Indian to achieve this prestigious award, pleasure because this landmark award has gone to one from the Tamil film Industry."

"I am sure that you will one day win the Oscar award and bring further glory and pride to India and Tamil Nadu," she said.

The Hindu : Thursday, January 15, 2009 : 2045 Hrs

I dedicate this award to my nation: A.R. Rahman

2009-01-16T07:20:00.001-08:00

The name A.R. Rahman seems to have become a mantra for everyone! This musical maestro has done something that no one else had been able to do in the 98-year history of Indian Cinema! By winning a Golden Globe (for best original score in Slumdog Millionaire), A.R. Rahman has put a broad smile on the face of every Indian.

When this national hero arrived at Chennai airport on Thursday, a humungous crowd and 100 plus artists who are participating in the ongoing Chennai Sangamam gave him a rousing welcome. Though obviously tired from his long and arduous journey, a patient Rahman answered several queries of the reporters. Through them, he thanked the entire nation for their love and support and announced that he is dedicating the award to them.

A.R. Rahman also thanked Danny Boyle for giving him the opportunity to work in the film and also said that Vipul Shah and Simon Beaufoy’s script inspired him to come up with this brilliant composition.

On his reaction to winning the award, the maestro said that he is very happy, more so because he was able to fulfill the longstanding wish of the nation for an individual Golden Globe or an Oscar. He once again thanked them all for their prayers and affection.

Rahman’s Exclusive Interview to Indiaglitz

2009-01-16T07:17:00.000-08:00

IndiaGlitz [Friday, January 16, 2009]

‘Many a mile to go….winning the Golden Globe is most certainly not the end of my dream’ said A. R. Rahman, the tremendous Indian sensation who has rocked the world with mind-blowing original musical compositions for the film ‘Slumdog Millionaire’.

In an exclusive interview to Indiaglitz after winning the coveted Golden Globe, the music wizard speaks about what his mindset was before and after his name was announced as the winner. ‘I wanted to win this for India’ declared Rahman who was visibly happy at the recognition.
Rahman has a wish ….

“I hope all violence in India and all parts of the world is avoided. It is foolish to kill another human being. If you kill an innocent human being, you have killed the whole of humanity. That is what the Prophet has said and I believe so much in that. Hope people come to their senses”.

A. R. Rahman had a look at the thousands of wishes sent to him by his fans through Indiaglitz and was moved with gratitude.

‘It is really gratifying to see all this….your unconditional love for me’ he said.

Will Rahman continue to rock the world and make India proud? Is the West taking note of Rahman’s incredible talent? We got an insight into all of these when Rahman talked about winning all the three awards in Los Angeles.

“When we went to LA, our team’s idea was to win all three awards there (two Critics’ Awards & the Golden Globe). Happy to have won all three. When I won the first award, they didn’t even want me in the photographs. When I won the second award, they wanted me in the group. After the Golden Globe they wanted to have individual snaps of me. I guess the western press also got introduced to me stage by stage”.

A.R. Rahman critics' choice for best composer

2009-01-15T08:43:00.000-08:00

Washington: Noted Indian music director A.R. Rahman won the Best Composer award as the Mumbai-set hit film Slumdog Millionaire swept the 14th Annual Critics' Choice Awards, winning five top prizes including Best Picture of 2008.

The film also won Best Director for British director Danny Boyle, Best Writer for Simon Beaufoy, and Best Young Actor/Actress for the British Indian actor Dev Patel.

Patel plays the protagonist in the film telling the heart warming story of an 18 year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai who goes on to win a staggering Rs20 million (Dh1.5 million) on India's Who Wants to be a Millionaire? game show.

The awards were presented in Los Angeles on Thursday night by the Broadcast Film Critics Association, which represents 200 of the top film critics across the United States.

Oscar indicator

The Critics' Choice Awards have been a strong indicator of the Oscar front-runners, with 70 per cent of its award winners also going on to win at the Academy Awards. Last year, No Country for Old Men from Joel and Ethan Coen won Best Picture and Best Director from the BFCA and went on to win those same awards at the Oscars.

Starring Anil Kapoor, Irrfan Khan, Dev Patel, and Freida Pinto, the film is also nominated for four Golden Globe Awards, which will be presented tomorrow, including Best Picture - Drama, Best Director, Best Screenplay and Best Score.

Earlier on Thursday, the Directors Guild of America (DGA) named Danny Boyle among its five nominees for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Feature Film for the year 2008.

The DGA's announcement of its pick of the winner on January 31 will be closely watched, as the DGA winner usually goes on to win the Academy Award for Best Director as well.

In fact, in its 60-year history the DGA's pick also won the Oscar a stunning 54 times. Last year, the Coen brothers won the DGA award as well as the Oscar for directing No Country For Old Men.

Award-winner

Slumdog Millionaire has now won nominations for the top award by all five of the US film industry's major artistic guilds - the Screen Actors Guild, the Producers Guild of America, the DGA, the Writers Guild of America, and the American Society of Cinematographers.

Members of these groups represent a substantial block of the 5,810 voting members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which will award the Oscars on February 22.

story from : http://www.gulfnews.com/world/India/10274023.html accessed on 14/1/2009

Shreya Ghoshal Singing Munbe Vaa in front of A.R.Rahman (Filmfare Awards)

2009-01-15T08:41:00.000-08:00

I think it's our turn for Oscars now: A R Rahman

2009-01-15T08:34:00.000-08:00

Chennai, Jan 15 (PTI) Having pocketed the prestigious Golden Globe award, music maestro A R Rahman believes it is now India's turn to get the Oscars.
"I think it's a cycle actually. All the people in different countries have got Oscars like Italy, Japan, and China. I think it's our turn now. We make good films and good music," Rahman said after his return to his hometown today as he was literally chased by a battery of reporters and fans.

Asked what change the Golden Globe has brought in his life, he quipped, "To give more." Rahman received the coveted Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score in the British-Indian film "Slumdog Millionaire" for his track 'Jai Ho'.

He, however, said he was not expecting Oscars and his attention was focused on his work for the time being.

"Next is all my pending work. I am just going to finish all that. Oscar is a different chapter. There are different panel of people who are selecting. So there's really no expectations from me. But I am really thrilled to share golden globe awards with all the people of India," he said.

Rahman said the story of "Slumdog Millionaire" has an universal resonance despite being based in India.

"It's a story from India but with a universal sensibilities. It is about optimism, hope. That is what we all need. That's the feeling which is universal. In that way, we have achieved a lot," he later told a news channel.

Directed by British filmmaker Danny Boyle, the film tells the magical story of a Mumbai slum dweller who goes on to win USD 20 million in the Indian version of "Who Wants to Be A Millionaire?". PTI

'Slumdog Millionaire' Global award for Rahman

2009-01-11T22:28:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles, Mumbai-based drama "Slumdog Millionaire" has won four Golden Globes including best original score motion picture for A.R. Rahman.
The renowned, Crazy, music director A R Rahman won the famous Golden global nomination award for his best music score for the film “Slum dog Millionaire”, Directed by a Britain Director Danny Boyle.This picture has earned three more nominations as Best picture-drama, Best Director for Boyle and for Best Screen play for simon beufoy for 2008 golden global awards given out by the Hollywood Foreign press. This week, this picture bags two awards by Los Angles Critics Association for best director award to Boyle and best music director award to A R Rahman.At present this picture “Slum dog millionaire” is screening in 165 theatres in USA.
Slum Dog Millionaire won two awards from the Los Angeles Film Critics Association - Best Director for Boyle and Best Music for Rahman.
The film, set and shot in Mumbai, has also won the Best Cinematography prize from The New York Film Critics' Circle and earned six Critics Choice Award nominations for Picture, Director (Boyle), Writer (Simon Beaufoy), Young Actor (Dev Patel), Composer (Rahman), and Song ("Jai Ho").

Apart from AR Rahman getting nominated for “Slum Dog Millionaire” the other nominees for the music award in the best original score – motion pictures category are Clint Eastwood (Changeling), Alexander Desplat (The curious case of Benjamin Button),James Newton Howard (Defiance), Hans Zimmer (Frost/Nixon)Nominees:

The Golden Globe award for Best Original Score is being given since its institution in 1947. The organization Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HEPA) is an organization of journalists who cover the United States Film Industry but are affiliated with publications outside North America.

The prestigious GG awards are regarded as the forerunners of the Oscar awards.

Slumdog Millionaire Song

2009-01-08T17:53:00.000-08:00

Slumdog Millionaire (2008) Soundtrack done by A R Rahman

The story of Jamal Malik, an 18 year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, who is about to experience the biggest day of his life. With the whole nation watching, he is just one question away from winning a staggering 20 million rupees on India's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" But when the show breaks for the night, police arrest him on suspicion of cheating; how could a street kid know so much? Desperate to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the story of his life in the slum where he and his brother grew up, of their adventures together on the road, of vicious encounters with local gangs, and of Latika, the girl he loved and lost. Each chapter of his story reveals the key to the answer to one of the game show's questions. Each chapter of Jamal's increasingly layered story reveals where he learned the answers to the show's seemingly impossible quizzes. But one question remains a mystery: what is this young man with no apparent desire for riches really doing on the game show? When the new day dawns and Jamal returns to answer the final question, the Inspector and sixty million viewers are about to find out. At the heart of its storytelling lies the question of how anyone comes to know the things they know about life and love.

DOWNLOAD MUSIC

O...Saya

Riots

Mausam And Escape

Paper Planes

Paper Planes (DFA Remix)

Ringa Ringa

Liquid Dance

Latika's Theme

Aaj Ki Raat

Millionaire

Gangsta Blues

Dreams On Fire

Jai Ho

Download Ghajini MP3 All Songs High Quality

2008-11-22T14:59:00.000-08:00

Download the most awaiten Songs of Ghajini which done by A R Rahman . The Songs are of Superb Quality . Download All Mp3 From Below.

The original version of the film was inspired by Christopher Nolan's critically acclaimed Memento. The film depicts the life of an anterograde amnesiac, in search for the man who murdered his wife. Ghajini will feature Aamir Khan, Asin Thottumkal and Jiah Khan in lead roles.

A Racy Screenplay, Slick Photography On Par with Hollywood movies and Extra-ordinary Special effects were some of the best features of this film...

Producer : Allu Arvind

Director : AR Murugadoss

Music : A. R. Rahman

Download From Below

Guzarish Lyrics

Behka Lyrics

AyeBachchu Lyrics

Latoo Lyrics

KaiseMujhe Lyrics

KaiseMujhe ( Instrumental )

Ghajini Songs Lyrics and Downloads

2008-11-18T20:46:00.000-08:00

NOT YET RELEASED

But Got one

heres the link

DOWNLOAD

The Lyrics For the above Song

Tu meri adhuri pyas pyas
Tu agayi mann ko ras ras
aab thoooo

Tu meri adhuri pyas pyas
Tu agayi mann ko ras ras
aab tho thu aaja pass passsssss
hain Guzarishhhhhh

Hain haalat dil ka tang tang
thu rang ja mere rang rang
bas chalna mere sang sang
hain Guzarishhhhhh

kehde thu han tho zindagi
Jharno se chhutke hasegi
moti hunge moti rahon meinnn
yeh yeh yeh

Tu meri adhuri pyas pyas
Tu agayi mann ko ras ras
aab tho thu aaja pass pass
hain Guzarishhhhhh

Sheeshe ke khwaab lekke
raaton mein chal raha hon
takrana jao kahinnnn

aasha ki lon hain roshan
phir bhi toffan ka dhar hain
lon bhuj na jaye kahin

bas eak haan ki guzaarish
phir hogi khusiyon ki baarish

Tu meri adhuri pyas pyas
Tu agayi mann ko ras ras
aab tho thu aaja pass passsssss
hain Guzarishhhhhh

hmmm mmm mm mmm mmm mm mmm hmmmmm mm…

oho ohhhhhhhhhh oho ohhhhhhhhh..

chanda hain aasman hain
aur badal bhee gane hain
yeh chandaaa chup jaye naaa

tanhayi das rahin hain
aur dhadkan bad rahi hain
eak pal bhi chain aaye na

kaisi aajab dastaan hain
bheecha

Download Vande Matharam Album A R Rahman

2008-11-18T08:48:00.000-08:00

The Most Valuable Work Done by A R Rahman....
download from here....

1. Maa Tujhe Salam

2. Vande Mataram Revival

3. Gurus Of Peace

4. Only You

5. Thai Manne Vanakkam ( Tamil)

6. Theme Music

Guru Hindi High Quality Songs Download

2008-11-17T17:05:00.000-08:00

Download High Quality songs of the Film Done by A R Rahman Guru

This Film has Got the National Film Award for Music To A R Rahman.

DOWNLOAD from the links below

Barsoremeghamegha

Basilaga

Bolenomuche

Dumdarodumdaro

Jaagihaidil

Dummaro

MayyaMayya

Download Jane Tu ya Jane Na Songs MP3

2008-11-14T14:05:00.000-08:00

Download Jane Tu Yaa Jane Naa Songs

1. Kabhi Kabhi Aditi Zindagi

2. Pappu Cant Dance

3. Pappu Cant Dance Remix

4. Jane Tuu Mer Kya Hai

5. Kahin Tu Hogi Ho

6. Nazrein Milaana Nazrein Churaana

7. Tu Bole Main Boloon

8. JaaneTuMeraKyaHaiAditi

GHAJINI FULL SONG PROMO HQ

2008-11-10T04:59:00.000-08:00

Download

Audio File

Video File

Akon-A.R. Rahman to collaborate?

2008-11-06T08:59:00.000-08:00

Hip-hop singer Akon and A.R. Rahman will work together in an album

Looking at his fame in Asian countries, especially in India, Akon has decided to release a special album which would be a conglomeration of bhangra and hip-hop. And to accomplish this, he is rumoured to have contacted A.R. Rahman.

Kollywood grapevine says that Akon had sent his manager to contact A.R. Rahman and discuss this idea. It also confirms that Akon's manager and ARR had a positive round of discussions and agreed to work together to release an exclusive album which will be a mixture of Afro-American and Indian music.

Akon is also said to have contacted Sonu Nigam, famous Bollywood playback singer who is touted as the "next Mohammed Rafi", for a similar project. Well, if this project takes off, it would be lovely to hear Sonu's mesmerizing voice serving as the background to Akon's rap.

Akon rose to fame in India with the song 'Mr. Lonely', an international chartbuster featured in his debut album Trouble and this magic was repeated in 'Smack that' (Konvicted). His 'Belly dancer' from his debut album 'Trouble' did well too, making Akon an international symbol of hip-hop music.

List of A R Rahman Movies

2008-11-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

Year	Film	Language	Notes
1992	Roja	Tamil
1992	Yodha	Malayalam
1993	Pudhiya Mugam	Tamil
	Gentleman	Tamil
	Kizhakku Cheemayile	Tamil
	Uzhavan	Tamil
	Thiruda Thiruda	Tamil
1994	Vandicholai Chinnaraasu	Tamil
	Super Police	Tamil
	Duet	Tamil
	Kadhalan	Tamil
	Pudhiya Mannargal	Tamil
	May Madham	Tamil
	Pavithra	Tamil
	Karuththamma	Tamil
	Manitha Manitha	Tamil
	Gangmaster	Telugu
1995	Bombay	Tamil
	Indira	Tamil
	Rangeela	Hindi
	Muthu	Tamil
1996	Love Birds	Tamil
	Indian	Tamil
	Kadhal Desam	Tamil
	Fire	Hindi
	Mr. Romeo	Tamil
1997	Anthimanthaarai	Tamil
	Minsaara Kanavu	Tamil
	Iruvar	Tamil
	Daud: Fun On The Run	Hindi
	Ratchagan	Tamil
	Mona Lisa	Tamil
	Vishwavidhaata	Hindi
	Kabhi Na Kabhi	Hindi
1998	Jeans	Tamil
	Dil Se…	Hindi
	Earth	Hindi
	Doli Saja Ke Rakhna	Hindi
1999	En Swasa Kaatre	Tamil
	Padayappa	Tamil
	Kadhalar Dhinam	Tamil
	Taal	Hindi
	Sangamam	Tamil
	Jodi	Tamil
	Takshak	Hindi
	Mudhalvan	Tamil
	Taj Mahal	Tamil
2000	Pukar	Hindi
	Alaipayuthey	Tamil
	Kandukondain Kandukondain	Tamil
	Fiza	Hindi	1 song
	Rhythm	Tamil
	Thenali	Tamil
	Zubeidaa	Hindi
2001	One 2 Ka 4	Tamil
	Nayak: The Real Hero	Hindi
	Love You Hamesha	Hindi
	Lagaan	Hindi
	Star	Tamil
	Parthale Paravasam	Tamil
2002	Alli Arjuna	Tamil
	Kannathil Muthamittal	Tamil
	The Legend of Bhagat Singh	Hindi
	Baba	Tamil
	Kadhal Virus	Tamil
	Saathiya	Hindi
2003	Parasuram	Tamil
	Boys	Tamil
	Warriors of Heaven and Earth	Mandarin / Japanese
	Enakku 20 Unakku 18	Tamil
	Kangalal Kaithu Sei	Tamil
	Tehzeeb	Hindi
2004	Udhaya	Tamil
	Naani	Hindi
	Warriors of Heaven and Earth	English
	Lakeer - Forbidden Lines	Hindi
	Meenaxi: A Tale of Three Cities	Hindi
	Aayitha Ezhuthu / Yuva	Tamil / Hindi
	New / Nani	Tamil / Telugu
	Dil Ne Jise Apna Kahaa	Hindi	3 songs
	Swades	Hindi
	Kisna - The Warrior Poet	Hindi	1 song
2005	Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero	Hindi
	The Rising - Ballad of Mangal Pandey	Hindi
	Anbe Aaruyire	Tamil
	Water	Hindi	5 songs
2006	Rang De Basanti	Hindi
	Sillunu Oru Kaadhal	Tamil
	Varalaru - The History of the Godfather	Tamil
2007	Guru	Hindi
	Provoked	Hindi
	Sajni	Kannada
	Sivaji: The Boss	Tamil
	Azhagiya Thamizh Magan	Tamil
	Elizabeth: The Golden Age	English	With Craig Armstrong
2008	Jodhaa Akbar	Hindi
	Al Risalah	Hindi	1 song
	Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na	Hindi
	ADA: A Way of Life	Hindi
	Sakkarakatti	Tamil
	Yuvvraaj	Hindi
	Ghajini (2008 film)	Hindi
	Slumdog Millionaire	English / Hindi
	Chennaiyil Oru Mazhaikalam	Tamil
	Nairsan	English
2009	Marmayogi	Tamil / Hindi
	Raavan	Hindi
	Ashokavanam	Tamil
	Sultan - The Warrior	Tamil
	What's Your Raashee?	Hindi
	Manavar Dhinam	Tamil
2010	Endhiran	Tamil

Ghajini Full length Song Download

2008-11-01T03:44:00.000-07:00

Download Ghajini Guzaridh song from here.. but its of low quality.

128kbps and and the song is 4.01 mins long

Download the song

Download Yuvaraj Music From A R Rahman

2008-10-31T15:06:00.000-07:00

Yuvaraj Music From A R Rahman wa recently launched. Here is the updateof the song in 128 kbit Format. U r free to Download from here..

To Download Plz Vist the following Links.......

Main Hoon Yuvaraaj Lyrics

Manmohini Morey Lyrics

Shano Remix

Tu Meri Dost Hain Lyrics

Shano Shano Lyrics

Zindagi Lyrics

Tu Muskura Lyrics

Dil Ka Rishta Lyrics

Mastam Mastam Lyrics

Ghajini Hindi Movie Trailor Music Done By A R Rahman

2008-10-30T23:12:00.000-07:00

The 19th Step

2008-09-02T01:52:00.001-07:00

The 19th Step

Director - Bharatbala

Producer - Manas Malhotra, Bharatbala [Bharatbala Productions]

Script - M.T.Vasudevan Nair

- The 19th Step is the only Indian film to have ever been selected for the prestigious Hong Kong Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF).

- The 19th Step will be the first martial art film from India. It will also be the first Indo-Japanese co-production of its kind. It is a film about one culture's journey into the other, telling a universal story aimed a larger worldwide audience, tracing the origins of the martial arts to Kalarippayattu, a fighting style practiced in Kerala in Southern India. Kerala and Japan both have highly evolved forms of martial arts, literature and performing arts; and are uniquely linked through similar cultural practices. The 19th Step will be the first film to explore this cultural linkage.

- Kenji, a bloodthirsty Samurai warrior haunted by the ghosts of his turbulent past, travels to India seeking the infinite power of the ancient martial art Kalarippayattu, but ends up acquiring powers far greater & beyond the martial art’s 18 steps of learning – into the realms of a mystical 19thStep.

Ekam Satyam (single with Michael Jackson)

2008-09-02T01:51:00.001-07:00

Ekam Satyam (single with Michael Jackson)

Lyrics - A.R.Parthasarathy (Sanskrit), Kanika Myer (English)

Choreographer - Raju Sundaram

Singers - A.R.Rahman (Sanskrit), Michael Jackson (English)

On stage in Munich - A.R.Rahman, Michael Jackson, Prabhu Deva, Shobhana and 30 German dancers.

- The song was recorded with MJ in September 1999.
- Performed at "Michael Jackson and Friends: What More Can I Give? " concert in Munich, Germany on June 1999. LINK
- Michael Jackson appeared on stage with folded hands wearing a white outfit designed by Indian fashion designer Manish Malhotra.
- The concert proceeds went to charities and aid agencies and a children's fund set up by former South African President Nelson Mandela.

CURRENT STATUS - No idea regarding the fate of this one, especially after Michael Jackson's split with Sony Music last year. We can only keep our fingers crossed and hope that we will get to hear the song soon.

The Heart of India (IMAX)

2008-09-02T01:50:00.001-07:00

The Heart of India (IMAX)

http://www.tajmahalfilm.com

Cast - Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Director - Bharat Bala

Script Writer - Michael Caulfield

Producer - TriColor Films and MacGillivray Freeman Films

Executive Producer - Sushil Tyagi (President of Tricolor Films)

Associate Director, Editor - Kanika Myer

Director Of Photography - Reed Smoot

Historical Consultant - Martand Singh

Production Designer - Dashrath Patel

- This is India's first IMAX film. Other working titles for the film are Journey Across India and Taj Mahal: The Great Indian Experience
- This movie adheres to the 40- to 45-minute giant screen format.

- 4 songs complete ( 2 Hindi & 2 English) ; English songs written by Don Black.

- The movie takes a journey across India, through its ancient cities, mountain passages, and vast desert kingdoms. Follow the history behind the Taj Mahal, a testament to the timeless art and culture of India, and a monument to love for the entire world.

CURRENT STATUS - Shooting 50% complete. Expected to release in 2008/2009.

Solo pop album for UK-based pop singer, Karen David

2008-09-02T01:48:00.002-07:00

Solo pop album for UK-based pop singer, Karen David

http://www.karendavid.com<

- ARR has composed 2 songs for this album.

- "Shillong Shillong "

- "Carry Me Home "[Visit official website to hear 30 second song clips]

- The album will also feature a lot of compositions that Karen made with other co-writers and producers. The ARR collaboration will be available next year - when Karen has signed a new record deal. Carry Me Home will be available as a limited edition independent release soon - watch the website for more details coming soon. [Info courtesy - Gopal, ARRYG]

TRIVIA - Karen David has previously sung for Rahman in the title song of Bombay Dreams.

CURRENT STATUS - Karen David is releasing this album sometime soon. The album will feature the above 2 songs, as well as Provoked song " Alive".

Orchestral piece for CBSO

2008-09-02T01:48:00.001-07:00

Orchestral piece for CBSO [City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra]

http://www.cbso.co.uk

Here's a picture of A.R.Rahman in the conductor's podium at the Birmingham Symphony Hall on April 10, 2003. CLICK HERE

- This orchestral work will be based on The Conference of the Birds, a 12th century Persian poem by Farid Uddin Attar from Nishapur.
- Rahman will also conduct an autumn concert for the CBSO featuring his Bollywood film music.
- A.R.Rahman : "It was while I was at the Birmingham Film and Television Festival 2000 that I met people involved in the music industry in Birmingham and was encouraged to write a piece with the CBSO. I love the different cultures that Birmingham has and this collaboration provides a bridge between the East and West nations at an important time in history. I chose Birmingham because of its rich diversity and the friendly people. I would very much like to see Birmingham become Capital of Culture - it seems to be the only place in Britain where different cultures live happily alongside each other. Art is the only way to transcend our different cultures and I am very excited to be involved in this project. I will be composing the piece over the next six months between Birmingham, New York - where Bombay Dreams goes to Broadway - and my present home in Madras." [ Birmingham Post]

CURRENT STATUS- Advanced Booking had been opened from July 7, 2003. First part of the concerts were held on March 5th and 6th, 2004.
No official announcement regarding when the second part based on The Conference of the Birdswill be held.

Bombil and Beatrice

2008-09-02T01:47:00.001-07:00

Bombil and Beatrice

http://www.bombilandbeatrice.com

Cast - Prashant Narayanan, Katie McGuinness, Piyush Mishra

Director - Kaizad Gustad

Producers - Quest Films Limited & Crossover Joint Ventures in association with Medient Corp and TFK Films

Cinematography - Trevor Forrest

Editor - Steve Mercer, Robert Wallace

Production Design - Ayesha Shroff

Art Direction - Narendra Rahurikar

- One hundred years ago, a beautiful young English woman named Beatrice promised a young Indian man named Vilas that she would wait for him. For a hundred years, if need be. At the height of the British Raj, these star crossed-lovers shared a love that defied both their worlds. On the night of New Year's Eve, Beatrice escapes from her family and elopes to her lover. But tragedy strikes instead.........
One hundred years later, in the urban slums of today's Mumbai, Beatrice tracks down the reincarnation of her lover from a century ago. Vilas is now Bombil, the hitman, and she has a job for him. At the appointed hour, at the appointed time, one hundred years after destiny struck, what will he do? Can he redeem himself in this lifetime for promises made in the last? Can he kill the very thing he loved? Bombil and Beatrice. Love Doesn't Die.

Slumdog Millionaire

2008-09-02T01:46:00.000-07:00

Slumdog Millionaire

Cast - Anil Kapoor, Irrfan Khan, Dev Patel

Director - Danny Boyle

Script Writer - Simon Beaufoy [The Full Monty]

Producer - Christian Colson

Cinematographer - Anthony Dod Mantle

Lyrics - Gulzar

- The film is based on the bestselling novel "Q and A" by Vikas Swarup. Production began in Mumbai in November 2007.

- A.R.Rahman is collaborating with UK based hip-hop artiste M.I.A aka Maya Arulpragasam on this project.
- One song "Jai Ho" - sung by Sukhwinder Singh. According to Sukhwinder, "It's a very innocent song, but it's also energetic and stylish. When you hear the beginning, you will feel that you have started some bhajan, it's a soothing number with a style element."

- An illiterate Indian streetkid from Mumbai wins the jackpot on Kaun Banega Crorepati.
He had gone onto the game show to reach his missing girlfriend, who he knows watches the show religiously. When he wins the jackpot, he is suspected of cheating.
- The director plans to film partly in Hindi and mostly in English, expressing his love for Hinglish films as the influence.

CURRENT STATUS - Shooting complete. The movie will be premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (from September 4 - 11, 2008).

Download Pray For Me Brother Song by A R Rahman

2008-08-25T17:16:00.000-07:00

Download Pray For Me Brother Song by A R Rahman a Valuable english Song which is dedicted for people for Peace

1. Download Pray For Me Brother.mp3

Download Rang De Basanti Remix

2008-08-21T19:27:00.000-07:00

Download Rang De Basanti Absolutely 'Don't Give It Up' Radio Rework

Rang De Basanti Absolutely 'Don't Give It Up' Radio Rework

Emergence of A R Rahman

2008-08-19T22:58:00.000-07:00

After MSV the creator and Ilayaraja the pioneer came Rahman the innovator. The 1990s belonged to him. Rahman emerged at a time when technology was a given, and was creating global access to musical sounds from anywhere to anywhere. He was moulded by the age of jingles and music videos, downloads and virtuality.

Rahman is the innovator of what may be described as `Studio music'. It is often critiqued that while Ilayaraja controls the machine, it is the machine that controls Rahman! Harsh as this criticism might be, Rahman's music is the outcome of separately and distinctively worked out multi-track musical phrases and sounds that are subsequently mixed and patched together as one layered musical piece. The lyric is often fitted in.

In contrast to MSV and Ilayaraja's virtuosity, Rahman's music reflects his effort to synergise his musical vision with the possibilities of technology and musical arrangement. His is studio music that does not easily accommodate a sense of the `live'. One is often amused by Rahman's stage shows where the technical sound is cleverly managed, but the singers struggle to cope with their breathless songs simply because the songs were never meant to be sung live. They are musical phrases pieced together for a cinema trend that itself is predominantly cut-and-paste.

What makes Rahman the numero uno of Indian film music? Despite contemporaries like Anu Malik, what has made Rahman the first among equals?

It is clearly a combination of his audio and visual appeal. His musical arrangement is technically excellent and justifies his musical vision. He has the special talent to enhance the digital ambience to produce sound with a three-dimensional feel. He has the ability to evoke energy and mood through a song, and create touching moments through sound. He is intuitive in picking on the right inspiration for the right musical moment, say, Arabic for Hamma Hamma ("Bombay"), Indian raga-pop for Que Sera Sera ("Pukar") or Turkish for Maya Maya ("Guru"). And even if he is not the first to pick on the right inspiration, he will ensure some kind of a `first' — a new voice, a new instrument or just a new turn of phrase. And he is the best at wrapping and delivering sound so that a nation swings to it.

International profile of A R Rahman

2008-08-19T22:56:00.000-07:00

There is the international profile to boot. Rahman packages what is now known as global music. He simplifies the main melody, fuses it with sounds from world music and arranges it skilfully. This has made his music more edible and sought after in the international scene. From the remixed versions of Vande Mataram and the Indian national anthem to the Broadway musical "Bollywood Dreams", Rahman is the mascot for new-age nationalism and international merchandising.

In an era when people see rather than hear music, Rahman is also camera-friendly. He comes across as an eclectic fusion of spirituality and youth. He is casual and yet not informal. He exudes humility and confidence at once. He is the cool dude that the young can identify with, and the elderly find endearing. Along with the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, he has fulfilled the great Indian populist need for a `national hero'

Now, a rap-remix version of Tamil classic `Thirukkural'

2008-08-19T22:55:00.000-07:00

hennai, July 30 - Disc Jockeys and upcoming musicians Khalid and Blaise said Wednesday they are all set to create a remix rap version of 'Thirukkural' under the baton of ace music director A.R. Rahman.

'We had several rounds of meetings with Rahman before he approved the tracks of remixing the couplets with classical music tracks of his score,' Khalid told IANS Wednesday.

'Since Rahman's path-breaking version of the patriotic song Vande Mataram has already appealed to India, under his supervision Thirukkural will win the world,' Blaise added.

Sources close to Rahman revealed that rap artiste Blaaze -, who sang in 'Bunty Aur Babli', has been signed to render the Tamil work into music appealing to all ages and continents.

The singer, whose real name is Lakshminarasimha Vijaya Rajagopala Seshadri Sharma Rajesh Raman, calls himself Blaaze and has achieved repeated success through screenings of his work on television channels.

Incidentally, Blaaze was the first Indian to be featured on VH1 music channel.

Blaaze has also sung in the recent Rajnikant hit 'Sivaji The Boss', besides the Amitabh-Abhishek-Rani Mukherjee starrer 'Bunty Aur Babli'.

Saint Thiruvalluvar, who is believed to have been born 30 years before Jesus Christ, authored 'Thirukkural'.

His 1330 couplets' compendium of Thirukkural is an interpretation of the right and wrong in every aspect of life.

Its philosophy has a global appeal and it has been translated into over 60 languages. The Tamil calendar was named after him.

Rahman awarded best music director

2008-08-19T22:49:00.000-07:00

A.R. Rahman was named the best music director for his score in Guru at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) 2008 awards held at Bangkok on June 8. He was also honoured for outstanding achievement by an Indian in international cinema.

Shreya Ghoshal won the honours for the best playback singer (female) for Barso re from Mani Ratnam's Guru. The film also bagged awards for the best background score by A.R.Rahman and best song recording by H. Sridhar.

The best playback singer (male) award was bagged by Shaan for Jab se tere naina from Saawariya.

Veteran Javed Akhtar was named the best lyricist for Om Shanti Om.

Ada --A.R.Rahman[2008] Hindi Movie Song Download

2008-08-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

Download the latest A.R.Rahman's Release Ada, hindi film songs for free

1. Ishq Ada - Male Version: A R Rahman

2. Hawa Sun Hawa: A R Rahman

3. Gumsum: A R Rahman

4. Gulfisha: A R Rahman

5. Meherbaan: A R Rahman

6. Tu Mera Hai: A R Rahman

7. Hai Dard: A R Rahman

8. Ishq Ada - Female Version: A R Rahman

9. Milo Wahan Wahan: A R Rahman

10. Mehrabaan - Instrumental: A R Rahman

Chakkarakatti Songs High Quality Mp3 Download

2008-08-18T15:41:00.000-07:00

Download Chakkarakatti Songs High Quality Mp3. Music done by A R Rahman in the year 2008. Look down for download links.

1. Chinnamma

2. Elay

3. I Miss You Da

4. Taxi Taxi

5. Naan Epoudhu

6. Marudaani

The audio-launch of 'Chakkarakatti', which marks the launch of veteran actor-director K. Bhagyaraj's son Chantanu as hero, was held in the city recently. The film has music be A.R. Rehman.

'Kalaipuli' Thanu is the producer while his son Kalaprabhu will be making his directorial debut with 'Chakkarakatti'. The event was attended by Poornima Bhagyaraj, Saranya and Chanthanu besides Bhagyaraj himself. The audio CDs were released by president of TFPC Rama Narayanan and were received by Karima Begum, Rehman's mother and Poornima Bhagyaraj.

Speaking at the event, Bhagyaraj came down heavily on some frontline heroes who were very adamant in starring in movies directed only by known and 'successful' directors. 'If one were to work only with known faces, there couldn't have been a Bhagyaraj nor could there have been an A.R. Rehman had Mani Ratnam been so adamant in the early nineties' he thundered.

He asked whether these heroes didn't believe in their own star power and acting prowess to carry the film forward. He said that a hero, who has had 3-4 flops in a row can still bounce back with a hit film whereas it would be very difficult for newcomer directors to get another chance if their first film fails to create any impression.
He said he would like to make a personal request to these heroes to commit themselves to act in at least a single movie in a year in a newcomer's film. By that way, many upcoming directors would be benefited.

While one might not find any fault with Bhagyaraj's view, it may not be out of place to mention that in the cut-throat world of Tamil films, heroes too have their own justification in not willing to go with a newcomer as a director.

These heroes normally don't do more than two films in a whole year; if one of them by a newcomer miserably flops, it might prove to be a major setback for a leading hero in the stiff competition he is facing now. In that scenario, the heroes need to be extra-careful in deciding about their directors to further their own careers, if not for anything else. And, there are a few new directors, who have failed to make use of the opportunities given by the leading actors.

A.R. Rahman to compose music for the multi-starrer Blue

2008-08-18T11:29:00.000-07:00

Music maestro A.R.Rahman has given some really diverse music this year. While he started the year with Ashutosh Gowariker's period film Jodhaa Akbar, he surprised everyone with the young and peppy tunes which he composed for Aamir Khan Productions' Jaane Tu…Ya Jaane Na.

If you think that's all you get to hear of Rahman this year, then you are wrong. While his music for Subhash Ghai's magnum opus Yuvraaj is being awaited with bated breath, he is also composing the music for Aamir Khan's Ghajini.

And for all you die-hard Rahman fans, there is some more good news. The music maestro has also been roped in by Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Ltd. to compose the music for their multi-starrer Blue. Blue has been in the news recently as major portions of the film featuring actors like Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, Lara Dutta, Zayed Khan and Katrina Kaif were shot in the exotic locations of Bahamas. With Rahman coming into the picture this adventure ride only gets bigger and better.

Kamal Hassan woos A R Rahman for Marmayogi

2008-08-18T11:28:00.001-07:00

Kamal Hassan finally signs music maestro AR Rahman for his home production, Marmayogi . It is going to be Kamal Hassan’s next venture after Dashavtaram . Kamal himself will co-produce, direct and act in this film.

Rahman was in Mumbai for a short visit, when he revealed his next venture. A smiling Rahman in a black suit discloses, “It’s strange, but Kamal and I have never worked together. We stay in the same city, work in the same industry, but we have never got an opportunity to work together. But this is an interesting project and I will be working on the tracks as soon as I reach Chennai.”

However there were several rumours doing the rounds about Rahman turning into a film producer. This question actually got the composer to burst out laughing. He retorts, “Me and produce films? When will I compose music if I am dealing with production hassles? Even I have heard that I have approached Aamir Khan and Kamal Hassan to direct a film for me. Well, it is utter rubbish. I am not trying my hands at screenplay either. I will leave that to the experts.”

It can be recalled that before this, Kamal Hassan’s film was backed by Bharat Bala Production along with Adlabs. Though Marmayogi will be made in Hindi it will be dubbed in Tamil and Telugu.

A. R. Rahman begins composing for 'Robot'

2008-08-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

A. R. Rahman has begun composing songs for the Rajini starrer 'Robot'.

Sources close to the music composer say that work has already begun in earnest as director Shankar is keen to started filming this August.

The director is on a location hunting spree while Rahman is busy composing the tunes. With Rajinikanth having completed the shooting for 'Kuselan', it looks certain that 'Robot' will begun in this August.

'Robot', produced by Ayngaran International, will have Aishwarya Rai playing the heroine. The mega-budget movie will be shot in various locations across the globe.

DOWNLOAD ROJA 5.1

2008-08-11T14:20:00.000-07:00

ROJA SONGS HIGH QUALITY MP 3

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1. Puthu vellai Mazhai

2. Kaadal Rojave

3. Rukumani Rukumani

4. Chinna Chinna Aasai

5. Tamizha Tamizha

Dil Se Re

2008-08-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

Dil se re

Soundtrack

2008-08-01T07:22:00.000-07:00

Jodhaa Akbar (2008) (performer: "Khwaja Mere Khwaja")

Sivaji (2007) (performer: "Athiradee") ("Sivaji", "Balleilakka", "Style", "Athiradee", "The Boss", "Sahana", "Sahara")
... aka Sivaji: The Boss (India: English title: long title)

Guru (2007) (performer: "Ay Hairathe", "Jaage Rahe", "Tere Bin") ("Barso Re", "Ay Hairathe", "Jaage Rahe", "Ek Lo Ek Muft", "Maiyya Maiyya", "Tere Bin", "Baazi Laga", "Shauk Hai", "Dhoom Dhamaka")
... aka Gurukant (India: Telugu title)
... aka Mani Ratnam's Guru (India: English title: complete title)

Inside Man (2006) (writer: "Chaiyya Chaiyya - Bollywood Joint", "Chaiyya Chaiyya")

Rang De Basanti (2006) (performer: "Khalbali", "Luka Chuppi", "Rubaroo") ("Rang De Basanti", "Khalbali", "Khoon Chala", "Luka Chuppi", "Pathshaala" (Part 1), "Pathshaala" (Part 2 - "Be a Rebel"), "Rubaroo", "Tu Bin Bataye")
... aka Paint It Yellow (International: English title)

Lord of War (2005) (writer: "Bombay Theme Tune") (performer: "Bombay Theme Tune")

The Rising: Ballad of Mangal Pandey (2005) (performer: "Al Maddath Maula") ("Mangal Mangal", "Mangal Mangal" (Agni Version), "Mangal Mangal" (Aatma Version), "Main Vari Vari", "Holi Re", "Rasiya", "Takey Takey", "Al Maddath Maula")
... aka Mangal Pandey (India: Hindi title)
... aka Mangal Pandey: The Rising (India: English title)

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero (2005) (writer: "Azadi") (performer: "Azadi") ("Desh Ki Mitti")
Swades: We, the People (2004) (performer: "Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera") ("Yeh Tara Woh Tara", "Saanwariya Saanwariya", "Yun Hi Chala Chal", "Aahista Aahista", "Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera", "Pal Pal Hai Bhaari", "Dekho Na")
... aka Our Country (International: English title) (USA)
... aka Desam (India: Tamil title: dubbed version)

Yuva (2004) (performer: "Dhakka Laga Bukka", "Kabhi Neem Neem", "Fanaa")
... aka The Youth (International: English title)

Meenaxi: Tale of 3 Cities (2004) ("Yeh Rishta", "Chinnamma Chilakkamma", "Do Kadam Aur Sahi", "Dhuan Dhuan", "Rang Hai", "Noor-un-ala-Noor", "Cyclist's Rhythm", "Potter's Village")

Tehzeeb (2003) ("Khoye Khoye Aankhen", "Meherbaan", "Aapko Mujhse Gila Hota Na Shikwa", "Sabaq Aisa", "Mujhpe Toofan Uthaye", "I Wanna Be Free")

Saathiya (2002) ("Saathiya", "Aye Udi Udi", "Chhalka Chhalka Re", "Chupke Se", "Mera Yaar Mila De", "O Humdum Soniyo Re", "Naina Milaike", "Mangalyam", "Chori Pe Chori")

Bollywood/Hollywood (2002) ("Extract")
... aka Bollywood Hollywood (Canada: English title: DVD box title)

The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002) (performer: "Desh MEre Desh")

Yadon ilaheyya (2002) (writer: "Mumbai Theme Tune") (performer: "Mumbai Theme Tune")
... aka Chronicle of Love and Pain
... aka D.I.
... aka Divine Intervention
... aka Göttliche Intervention - Eine Chronik von Liebe und Schmerz (Germany)
... aka Intervention divine (France)

Nayak: The Real Hero (2001) ("Chalo Chale Mitwa", "Shakalaka Baby", "Sooki Sooki Roti")

Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (2001) (music: "Ghanan Ghanan", "Mitwa", "Radha Kaise Na Jale", "O Rey Chhori", "Chale Chalo", "Waltz for a Romance", "O Palanhaare", "Lagaan - Once Upon a Time in India") (performer: "Chale Chalo")
... aka Lagaan (India: Hindi title: short title)
... aka Land Tax (International: English title: informal literal title)

Zubeidaa (2001) (music: "Dheeme Dheeme", "Main Albeli", "Mehndi Hai Rachnewaali", "So Gaye Hain - 1", "Hai Na", "Pyaara Sa Gaon", "So Gaye Hain - 2", "Chodo Mori Baiyaan")

Fiza (2000) (music: "Piya Haji Ali") (performer: "Piya Haji Ali")

Pukar (2000) (music: "Kay Sera... Sera", "Sunta Hai Mera Khuda", "Humrahi Jab Ho Mastana", "Hai Jaana... Hai Jaana", "Kismat Se Tum Hum Ko Mile", "Ek Tu Hi Bharosa")

Taal (1999) (performer: "Ishq Bina") ("Taal Se Taal Mila", "Taal Se Taal Mila" (Modern Remix), "Kahin Aag Lage", "Ramta Jogi", "Ni Main Samajh Gayee", "Nahin Saamne Tu", "Ishq Bina", "Kya Dekh Rahe Ho Tum")
... aka Thaalam (India: Tamil title)

Mudhalvan (1999) ("Azhagana Ratchashiyae", "Kurukku Chiruthvale", "Mudhalvanae", "Shakalaka Baby", "Ulundhu Vithakkaiyilae", "Uppu Karuvadu")
... aka Oke Okkadu (India: Telugu title: dubbed version)

Dil Se.. (1998) (performer: "Dil Se Re") ("Chal Chaiyya Chaiyya", "Thaiyya Thaiyya", "Jiya Jale, Jaan Chale", "Dil Se Re", "E Ajnabi", "Satrangi Re")
... aka From the Heart (USA)
... aka Prema Tho (India: Telugu title: dubbed version)
... aka Uyire (India: Tamil title: dubbed version)

Daud: Fun on the Run (1997) ("O Bhavre", "Zahreela Pyar")

Minsaara Kanavu (1997) ("Awara Bhavre")
... aka Merupu Kalalu (India: Telugu title: dubbed version)
... aka Minsara Kanavu (India: Tamil title: alternative transliteration)
... aka Sapnay (India: Hindi title: dubbed version)

Fire (1996) ("Bombay Theme" (1995), "Ek Ho Gaye Hum Aur Tum" (1995))

Bumbai (1995) ("Bombay Theme", "Antha Arabi" (Hindi: "Ek Ho Gaye Hum Aur Tum"), "Kannalanae" (Hindi: "Kehna Hi Kya"), "Kuchi Kuchi", "Uyire" (Hindi: "Tu Hi Re"), "Poovukku Enna" (Hindi: "Kuch Bhi Na Socho"))
... aka Bombay (India: English title)
... aka Bombayi (India: Telugu title: dubbed version)

Rangeela (1995) (performer: "Mangta Hai Kya") ("Tanha Tanha", "Hai Rama", "Mangta Hai Kya")
... aka Full of Colour (USA: TV title)

Roja (1992) ("Roja")
... aka Roja (India: Malayalam title) (India: Telugu title: dubbed version)
... aka The Rose (International: English title)

List of A. R. Rahman awards

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This page presents a list of awards and nominations awarded to film composer and instrumentalist A. R. Rahman.
2000 - Padma Shri (India)
National Film Awards (India)
1993 - National Film Award for Best Music Direction - Roja
1997 - National Film Award for Best Music Direction - Minsaara Kanavu
2002 - National Film Award for Best Music Direction - Lagaan
2003 - National Film Award for Best Music Direction - Kannathil Muthamittal
Filmfare Awards South (India)
1993 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Roja
1994 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Gentleman
1995 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Kadhalan
1996 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Bombay
1997 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Kadhal Desam
1998 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Minsaara Kanavu
1999 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Jeans
2000 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Mudhalvan
2001 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Alaipayuthey
2006 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Sillunu Oru Kadhal
2007 - Filmfare Best Music Direction - Sivaji

Filmfare Awards (India)
1995 - Filmfare Best Music Director Award - Rangeela
1998 - Filmfare Best Music Director Award - Dil Se
1999 - Filmfare Best Music Director Award - Taal
2001 - Filmfare Best Music Director Award - Lagaan
2002 - Filmfare Best Music Director Award - Saathiya
2002 - Filmfare Best Background Score - The Legend of Bhagat Singh
2004 - Filmfare Best Background Score - Swades
2006 - Filmfare Best Music Director Award - Rang de Basanti
He also won a "Filmfare R D Burman Music Debutant Award" for Roja's dubbed Hindi version.
2007 - Filmfare Best Music Director Award - Guru
2007 - Filmfare Best Background Score - Guru

[1]
Tamil Nadu State Film Awards
1993 - Best Music - Roja
1994 - Best Music - Gentleman
1995 - Best Music - Kadhalan
1996 - Best Music - Bombay
1997 - Best Music - Minsaara Kanavu
2000 - Best Music - Sangamam
Zee Cine Awards (India)
2000 - ** 2002 - Zee Cine Award Best Music Director - Lagaan
2007 - Zee Cine Award Best Music Director - Rang De Basanti
2008 - Zee Cine Award Best Music Director - Guru
2008 - Zee Cine Award Best Background Music - Guru
GIFA Awards (Malaysia)
2006 - GIFA Award for Best Music - Rang De Basanti
2006 - GIFA Award for Best Background Music - Rang De Basanti
IIFA Awards (India)
2008 - Outstanding contribution by an Indian in International Cinema
2008 - IIFA Best Music Direction - Guru
2008 - IIFA Best Background Music - Guru
2007 - IIFA Best Music Direction - Rang De Basanti
2002 - IIFA Best Music Direction - Lagaan
2003 - IIFA Best Music Direction - Saathiya
2000 - IIFA Best Music Direction - Taal
Star Screen Awards
2002 - Best Background Music
2007 - Best Background Music- Rang De Basanti
2007 - Best Music - Rang De Basanti
2008 - Best Music - Guru
Vijay TV Awards
2006 - Best Music- Sillunu Oru Kaadhal , Varalaru - The History of the Godfather
2007 - Best Music- Sivaji
Swaralaya Yesudas Award (India)
2006 - Swaralaya-Kairali-Yesudas Award for outstanding performance in music field

Music style

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Rahman's instant success is owed to his clever usage of Western instruments. His interest in the works of Classical and Romantic period composers, Carnatic composers, early film composers and predecessors K. V. Mahadevan and Vishwanathan-Ramamoorthy of the film industry of Tamil Nadu and others continued through his late teens. He further explored and trained in Carnatic music, Western classical, Hindustani music and the Qawwali style of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, in addition to numerous other styles. His interest and outlook in music is said to stem from his love of experimentation.[4][7] As a result, his scores have alternated from songs and themes composed covering a variety of genres, with unconventionally-grouped instruments, and different vocal styles being used and combined together in some of his film soundtracks, to more traditional orchestral themes with leitmotif techniques composed in others. Rahman's works often feature a mix of minimalist songs and evocative, thematic pieces, building on his differing chord progressions and rhythms. He has written scores and songs with new and varied melodic and percussive sounds from instruments of different music systems.

Summary Of Carriers

2008-08-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

In 1991, Rahman began his own music recording and mixing studio, attached to backyard of his house, called the Panchathan Record Inn. He initially composed music jingles for advertisements, Indian Television channels and music scores in documentaries, among other projects. In 1992, he was approached by film director Mani Ratnam to compose the score and soundtrack for Ratnam's Tamil film Roja. The debut led Rahman to receive the Rajat Kamal award for Best Music Director at the National Film Awards, the first time ever by a first-time film composer. Rahman has since then gone on to win the award three more times (for his scores for Minsaara Kanavu (Electric Dreams, Tamil) in 1997, Lagaan (Tax, Hindi) in 2002, Kannathil Muthamittal (A Peck on the Cheek, Tamil) in 2003, the most ever by any composer.[5]

Roja's score met with high sales and acclaim, in its original and dubbed versions, bringing about an effective transformation in film music at the time, and Rahman followed this with scores for films including, among others, Bombay, Kadhalan, Indira, Minsaara Kanavu, Muthu and Love Birds, which gained him notice. His soundtracks gained him recognition in the Tamil film industry and across the country for his versatality in classical, folk, jazz, reggae, soft rock and other styles in his pieces. Rangeela, directed by Ram Gopal Varma, marked Rahman's debut in Hindi films. Many popular and superhit scores for films including Dil Se and Taal followed. The sales of these albums prompted several film producers to take film music more seriously.

Rahman's work is also unique in the fact that his collaborations with some film directors have always resulted in successful soundtracks. In particular, he has worked with Mani Ratnam on ten films until 2006, all of which have been musical hits. Also notable is his collaboration with the director S. Shankar in the films Gentleman, Kadhalan, Indian, Jeans, Mudhalvan, Nayak, Boys and Sivaji.

His first movie album Roja was listed in TIME's "Top 10 Movie Soundtracks of All Time" in 2005.[6] Rahman continued to record frequently in his studio, the Panchathan Record Inn. In 2005, a newly developed recording studio, attached to the Inn called A.M. Studios was opened. It is considered to be the most developed, equipped and high tech studio of Asia. In 2006, Rahman launched his own music label, KM Musiq. Its first release was his soundtrack to the film Sillunu Oru Kaadhal which it released worldwide, in August 2006. His latest work includes Saathiya, Rang De Basanti, Sillunu Oru Kaadhal, Guru, Varalaru - The History of the Godfather, Sivaji: The Boss, Azhagiya Tamil Magan, Jodhaa Akbar, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na* Sakkarakatti and ADA: A Way of Life . Rahman has also scored for the movie Provoked, co-scored Elizabeth: The Golden Age,. He is a recipient of the Padma Shri award from the Government of India.

Upcoming Films

2008-08-01T07:11:00.000-07:00

Chennaiyil Oru Mazhaikalam (2008)
Puli (2008)
Ghajini(Hindi Remake) (2008)
Dilli 6 (2008)
Main Yuvraj (2008)
What Is Cooking? (2008)
Sultan: The Warrior (2009)
Nairsan (2009)
Exclusion (2009)
Dhun (2009)
Chamki Chameli(2009)
Manavar Dhinam (2009)
Marmayogi(2010)
Robot (2010)
Blue (Announced)
What's Your Raashee? (Announced)
Ponnar Shankar (Announced)

Filmography

2008-08-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

as Music DirectorRoja (1992)
Yodha (1992)
Uzhavan(1993)
Thiruda Thiruda (1993)
Pudhiya Mugam (1993)
Gentleman (1993)
Vanryryewryedicholai Chinnaraasu (1994)
Super Police (1994)
Pudhiya Mannargalyhery (1994)
Pavithra (1994)
May Madham (1994)
Kizhakku Cheemayile (1994)
Karuththamma (1994)
Kadhalan (1994)
Duet (1994)
Manitha Manitha (1994)
Gangmaster (1994)
Indira (1995)
Rangeela (1995)
Muthu (1995)
Bombay (1995)
Love Birds (1996)
Indian (1996)
Kadhal Desam (1996)
Fire (1996)
Mr. Romeo (1996)
Anthimantharai (1996)
Minsaara Kanavu (1997)
Iruvar (1997)
Daud: Fun On The Run (1997)
Ratchagan (1997)
Mona Lisa (1997)
Jeans (1998)
Dil Se… (1998)
Earth (1998)
Doli Saja Ke Rakhna (1998)
Kabhi Na Kabhi (1998)
En Swasa Kaatre (1999)
Jodi (1999)
Padayappa (1999)
Taal (1999)
Takshak (1999)
Kadhalar Dhinam (1999)
Pukar (1999)
Sangamam (1999)
Mudhalvan (1999)
Taj Mahal (2000)
Alaipayuthey (2000)
Fiza (2000) (1 song)
Kandukondain Kandukondain (2000)
Rhythm (2000)
Thenali (2000)
Zubeidaa (2000)
One 2 Ka 4 (2001)
Nayak: The Real Hero (2001)
Love You Hamesha (2001)
Star (2001)
Lagaan (2001)
Parthale Paravasam (2001)
Alli Arjuna (2001)
Kannathil Muthamittal (2002)
The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)
Baba (2002)
Kadhal Virus (2002)
Saathiya (2002)
Udhaya (2003)
Naani (2003)
Parasuram (2003)
Boys (2003)
Enakku 20 Unakku 18 (2003)
Kangalal Kaithu Sei (2003)
Tehzeeb (2003)
Warriors of Heaven and Earth (2004)
Lakeer - Forbidden Lines (2004)
Meenaxi: A Tale of Three Cities (2004)
Aayitha Ezhuthu / Yuva (2004)
New / Nani (2004)
Dil Ne Jise Apna Kahaa (2004) (3 songs)
Swades (2004)
Kisna - The Warrior Poet (2004) (1 song)
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero (2005)
The Rising - Ballad of Mangal Pandey (2005)
Anbe Aaruyire (2005)
Water (2005) (5 songs)
Rang De Basanti (2006)
Sillunu Oru Kaadhal (2006)
Varalaru - The History of the Godfather (2006)
Guru (2007)
Provoked (2007)
Sajni (2007)
Sivaji: The Boss (2007)
Azhagiya Thamizh Magan (2007)
Elizabeth: The Golden Age (2007) (with Craig Armstrong)
Jodhaa Akbar (2008)
Al Risalah (1 song) (2008)
Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na (2008)
ADA: A Way of Life (2008)
Sakkarakatti (2008)

Vande matharam

2008-08-01T07:01:00.000-07:00

He made an album Vande Mataram (1997) on India's 50th anniversary of independence to immense success. He followed it up with an album called Jana gana mana, a conglomeration of performances by many leading exponents/artists of Indian classical music. In addition to writing jingles for ads, he has composed several orchestrations for athletic events and T.V. and internet media publications, documentaries and short films.

Vande Matharam Composed by A R Rahmaan

India's national Anthem Composed by ARR

Film scoring and soundtracks 2

2008-07-09T01:24:00.000-07:00

His first movie album Roja was listed in TIME's "Top 10 Movie Soundtracks of All Time" in 2005.[7] Rahman continued to record frequently in his studio, the Panchathan Record Inn. In 2005, a newly developed recording studio, attached to the Inn called A.M. Studios was opened. It is considered to be the most developed, equipped and high tech studio of Asia. In 2006, Rahman launched his own music label, KM Musiq. Its first release was his soundtrack to the film Sillunu Oru Kaadhal which it released worldwide, in August 2006. His latest work includes Saathiya, Rang De Basanti, Sillunu Oru Kaadhal, Guru, Varalaru - The History of the Godfather, Sivaji: The Boss, Azhagiya Tamil Magan, Jodhaa Akbar, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na* Sakkarakatti and ADA: A Way of Life . Rahman has also scored for the movie Provoked, co-scored Elizabeth: The Golden Age,. He is a recipient of the Padma Shri award from the Government of India.

Rahman has been involved in several projects aside from film. He made an album Vande Mataram (1997) on India's 50th anniversary of independence to immense success. He followed it up with an album called Jana gana mana, a conglomeration of performances by many leading exponents/artists of Indian classical music. In addition to writing jingles for ads, he has composed several orchestrations for athletic events and T.V. and internet media publications, documentaries and short films.In 1999, Rahman, along with choreographers Shobhana and Prabhu Deva Sundaram and a dancing troupe from the Tamil film industry performed with Michael Jackson in Munich, Germany, for his "Michael Jackson and Friends Concert." In 2002, he composed his maiden stage production Bombay Dreams (2002) following a commission from famous musical theatre composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. Furthermore, Rahman, along with the Finnish folk music band Värttinä, composed the music for The Lord of the Rings theatre production. He composed the piece "Raga's Dance" for Vanessa-Mae's album Choreography (2004).

Film scoring and soundtracks 1

2008-07-08T01:23:00.000-07:00

n 1991, Rahman began his own music recording and mixing studio, attached to backyard of his house, called the Panchathan Record Inn. He initially composed music jingles for advertisements, Indian Television channels and music scores in documentaries, among other projects. In 1992, the first time he got chance to enter in film field, through a Malayalam film named Yodha. Its director Sangeeth Sivan who realise Rahman's talents already. And with this good entry he was approached by film director Mani Ratnam to compose the score and soundtrack for Ratnam's Tamil film Roja. The debut led Rahman to receive the Rajat Kamal award for Best Music Director at the National Film Awards, the first time ever by a first-time film composer. Rahman has since then gone on to win the award three more times (for his scores for Minsaara Kanavu (Electric Dreams, Tamil) in 1997, Lagaan (Tax, Hindi) in 2002, Kannathil Muthamittal (A Peck on the Cheek, Tamil) in 2003, the most ever by any composer.
Roja's score met with high sales and acclaim, in its original and dubbed versions, bringing about an effective transformation in film music at the time, and Rahman followed this with scores for films including, among others, Bombay, Kadhalan, Indira, Minsaara Kanavu, Muthu and Love Birds, which gained him notice. His soundtracks gained him recognition in the Tamil film industry and across the country for his versatality in classical, folk, jazz, reggae, soft rock and other styles in his pieces. Rangeela, directed by Ram Gopal Varma, marked Rahman's debut in Hindi films. Many popular and superhit scores for films including Dil Se and Taal followed. The sales of these albums prompted several film producers to take film music more seriously.
Rahman's work is also unique in the fact that his collaborations with some film directors have always resulted in successful soundtracks. In particular, he has worked with Mani Ratnam on ten films until 2006, all of which have been musical hits. Also notable is his collaboration with the director S. Shankar in the films Gentleman, Kadhalan, Indian, Jeans, Mudhalvan, Nayak, Boys and Sivaji.

Lux Cee Cine Award London 2008

2008-07-06T19:20:00.000-07:00

Early life and influences

2008-06-09T01:21:00.000-07:00

A. R. Rahman was born to R. K. Shekhar, a composer, and conductor for Malayalam-language films. His father was a famous music director in Kerala. But he did not get enough opportunities there. His father died when Rahman was nine years old, and his family rented out musical equipment as a source of income. Rahman is an adherent of Sufism. His family converted to Islam from Hinduism in the late 1970s.
During these early years, Rahman served as a keyboard player and an arranger in bands such as "Roots" and "Nemesis Avenue" with friends including Sivaman, embracing numerous music genres. He played the keyboard and piano, in addition to, among others, the synthesizer, the harmonium and the guitar. His curiosity in the synthesizer in particular increased because, he says, it was the “ideal combination of music and technology".He began early training in music under Master Dhanraj. At the age of 11, he joined, as a keyboardist, the troupe of Ilaiyaraaja,one of many composers to whom musical instruments belonging to Rahman's father were rented to. Rahman later played in the orchestra of M. S. Viswanathan and Ramesh Naidu, accompanied Zakir Hussain, Kunnakudi Vaidyanathan and L. Shankar on world tours and obtained a scholarship to Trinity College of Music in London, where he graduated with a degree in Western classical music.
Once in an interview with Vijay TV's Coffee with Anu, Rahman described P. Susheela as his most favourite singer ever, whom he worked with in the Tamil film Pudhiya Mugam

NDTV Indian of year

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