A. R. Rahman – Oscar-Winning Composer & Indian Music Icon

A. R. Rahman, a two-time Academy Award (Oscar) winner and five-time nominee, is celebrated worldwide as the man who redefined contemporary Indian music. With global sales of over 150 million albums and soundtracks in more than six languages, Rahman has created landmark scores for films such as Roja, Bombay, Dil Se, Taal, Lagaan, Jodhaa Akbar, Slumdog Millionaire, and 127 Hours.

Born with a passion for music, Rahman began his career assisting leading Indian musicians before composing jingles and television scores. He later earned a degree in Western classical music from Trinity College of Music, London, and founded his own state-of-the-art studio, Panchathan Record Inn in Chennai. His big break came in 1991 when director Mani Ratnam offered him Roja—a runaway success that not only won him national fame but also his first Indian National Award for Best Music Composer, the first ever for a debutant. Since then, Rahman has won the National Award three more times, more than any other Indian composer.

Beyond film, Rahman is known for his global collaborations. In 2011, he joined the supergroup SuperHeavy alongside Mick Jagger, Joss Stone, Damian Marley, and Dave Stewart. His work has seen collaborations with legends like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Michael Jackson, M.I.A., Sarah Brightman, Hans Zimmer, and Akon. Rahman’s compositions have also been performed live by world-renowned ensembles including the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

From his early Indian cinema milestones to his international acclaim as an Oscar-winning composer, producer, and performer, A. R. Rahman continues to be one of the most influential and innovative figures in global music.

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