A.R. Rahman – The Mozart of Madras
A.R. Rahman, born as A.S. Dileep Kumar on January 6, 1967, in Chennai, India, is one of the most iconic music composers in the world. Known for blending Indian classical music with electronic sounds, orchestral arrangements, and world music, Rahman has redefined the sound of Indian cinema and left a global mark on music.
Early Life & Musical Roots
Rahman was born into a musically inclined family. His father, R.K. Shekhar, was a film-score composer, and Rahman began learning piano at the age of 4. After his father’s early death, the family struggled financially, but young Rahman supported them by playing keyboard in music troupes.
He later studied at Trinity College of Music, London, and earned a diploma in Western classical music. Rahman’s foundation in both Indian and Western traditions gave him a unique musical voice.
Breakthrough with Roja (1992)
Awards & RecognitionRahman’s big break came in 1992 with director Mani Ratnam’s film Roja. The music became an instant hit and changed the sound of Indian film music forever. The Roja soundtrack was also listed among TIME magazine’s top 10 soundtracks of all time.
Awards & Recognition
A.R. Rahman has received countless national and international awards, including:
2 Academy Awards (Oscars) – for Slumdog Millionaire (Best Original Score & Best Original Song – “Jai Ho”)
2 Grammy Awards
1 BAFTA Award
1 Golden Globe
6 National Film Awards (India)
15 Filmfare Awards
Padma Bhushan – India’s third-highest civilian award (2010)
Global Collaborations
Rahman has worked with international artists and filmmakers such as:
Andrew Lloyd Webber – on the musical Bombay Dreams
Mick Jagger, Will.I.Am, Dido, and Hans Zimmer
Scored music for Hollywood films like 127 Hours, People Like Us, Million Dollar Arm, and more
Style & Innovation
Rahman is known for:
Mixing Indian classical with techno, folk, Sufi, rock, and electronic
Using cutting-edge technology and sound engineering
Promoting fresh talent and diverse voices
He also founded KM Music Conservatory in Chennai to train the next generation of musicians.
Humanitarian Work
Beyond music, Rahman supports several causes:
Education and empowerment of underprivileged children
Environmental sustainability
Peace and interfaith harmony
Popular Albums & Songs
Some of his most loved Indian film albums include:
Roja, Bombay, Dil Se, Taal, Lagaan, Rang De Basanti, Guru, Rockstar, Jodhaa Akbar, Yuvvraaj, Highway, OK Jaanu, Atrangi Re
His songs like:
“Jai Ho”, “Kun Faya Kun”, “Tere Bina”, “Tum Tak”, “Agar Tum Saath Ho”, “Luka Chuppi”, “Maa Tujhe Salaam” remain iconic.
Fun Facts
Nicknamed “The Mozart of Madras”
Originally composed over 300 ad jingles before entering film music
Converted to Islam after a personal family tragedy
Has an asteroid named after him: 27413 Rahman
Legacy
A.R. Rahman is not just a composer — he’s a revolution in Indian music. His soundtracks have inspired generations, his humility and spirituality continue to win hearts, and his music transcends borders, languages, and genres.
“Music is not just about entertainment; it’s a way to connect people.”
— A.R. Rahman