AR Rahman Sets Record with 7th National Award for Music, Leading All Indian Composers

On 16th August Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman achieved a remarkable milestone by securing his 7th National Film Award for Best Music Director (Background Score) for his work on Mani Ratnam’s 2022 film Ponniyin Selvan – Part 1. The announcement of the 70th National Film Awards for films released in 2022 saw Rahman once again at the forefront, showcasing his enduring influence in the world of music.

AR Rahman’s As Only Music Director with 7 National Awards

AR Rahman’s win for Ponniyin Selvan – Part 1 marks a significant achievement in his illustrious career. With this victory, Rahman now holds the record for the most National Film Awards won by any music director in India. This achievement surpasses the previous record held by Isaignani Ilaiyaraaja, who has won five National Awards for music, with his last win occurring in 2015 for the Tamil film Tharai Thappattai. Following closely behind Rahman and Ilaiyaraaja, Hindi music director Vishal Bhardwaj has secured four National Awards, while Jaidev Kumar has won three.

Rahman’s Journey Through Indian Cinema

AR Rahman’s journey into Tamil cinema began with his groundbreaking work on Mani Ratnam’s Roja in 1992. This marked the start of a career that would redefine the landscape of Indian film music. Rahman’s first National Award came for Roja, followed by another win for Minsara Kanavu in 1996. By the year 2000, Rahman’s work had expanded into multiple languages, and he continued to make waves with his National Award-winning score for the Hindi film Lagaan in 2001. His success did not stop there; he followed up with another win for Mani Ratnam’s Kannathil Muthamittal in 2002.

Despite his growing international acclaim, including prestigious awards such as the Golden Globes, Critics Choice Movie Awards, and Oscars for films like Slumdog Millionaire and 127 Hours, Rahman’s connection to Indian cinema remained strong. It was not until 15 years later that he once again made a mark at the National Awards with wins for both Mani Ratnam’s Kaatru Veliyidai and the Hindi film Mom starring Sridevi. With his recent award for Ponniyin Selvan – Part 1, Rahman has solidified his place in Indian cinema history.

The Mani Ratnam Connection

One of the most significant aspects of AR Rahman’s career is his collaboration with acclaimed director Mani Ratnam. Rahman’s innovative approach to Tamil music was evident from the outset, catching the attention of Ratnam, who was instrumental in launching Rahman’s career. In an interview with Deadline, Ratnam recalled their first encounter, stating, “He (Rahman) played something he’d recorded for a jingle, and the sound was just unbelievable. It was something that I’d never heard before in such a small studio.” Ratnam was immediately impressed by Rahman’s unique sound and decided to work with him on Roja.

The partnership between Ratnam and Rahman has proven to be one of the most successful director-composer duos in Indian cinema. Ratnam has described each film with Rahman as a special journey, appreciating the newness and innovation Rahman brings to every project. Notably, four of Rahman’s National Awards have been for films directed by Ratnam, highlighting the depth of their professional bond. Rahman, in turn, regards Ratnam as a brother and mentor, acknowledging the significant role Ratnam has played in his career over the past 32 years.

Rahman’s Unique Musical Style

When AR Rahman burst onto the Tamil music scene with Roja, it was a game-changer. His fresh compositions, innovative melodies, and novel use of sounds captivated audiences across age groups. Rahman’s ability to blend Indian and Western musical elements brought a new dimension to Tamil film music, setting a high standard for future composers. His signature style—merging Indian classical music with global influences such as Broadway orchestrations, jazz, pop, Sufi, and reggae—created a distinctive sound that became his hallmark.

AR Rahman’s global success is a testament to his musical genius. From his base in Madras, he has performed worldwide and collaborated with some of the most prominent names in Hollywood and international cinema. His philosophy on life and music reflects his commitment to authenticity and self-belief.

Rahman has shared his wisdom with aspiring musicians, advising them, “Don’t let other people put you down, just believe in yourself, pursue your passion and one day you will surprise the world. Also, while it is fine to get inspired by someone, find what is charming in your personality, develop it. Then everybody will come to you because no one else can be you.” Rahman’s words underscore his belief in the power of individuality and perseverance

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