AR Rahman Opens Up About His Intense Six-Year Creative Surge
Music maestro AR Rahman recently made a candid admission. He acknowledged that Hindi film projects have indeed slowed down for him over the past eight years. However, he quickly highlighted a fascinating counterpoint. The last six years, according to Rahman, have been among the most intense and productive phases of his entire celebrated career.
A Deliberate Decision to Reassert His Relevance
In a revealing interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, the composer shared his strategic thinking. Between 2019 and 2025, he consciously worked on nearly 20 to 30 films. This was not by accident. It was a deliberate decision. Rahman wanted to reassert himself in the industry. More importantly, he aimed to forge a genuine connection with a newer, younger generation of listeners.
He reflected on a common challenge faced by artists of his stature. Audiences often view his work through a powerful lens of nostalgia. "For the past six years, to be frank, when people come to you, the ’90s generation have a certain nostalgia, certain affinity towards your music," Rahman explained. "The same goes for those born in 2000s, and so on for those from the next decade."
Challenging the 'Gaslighting' of Nostalgia
Rahman described how this nostalgic praise can sometimes feel like a subtle critique. "They come and gaslight you. They say, 'In the ’90s, you did Roja (1992). That’s very good music, sir!' That feels like now, you’re not doing good music, right?" He admitted this perception could be harmful. "It actually harms your thinking if you’re not in your best mood."
To directly challenge this narrative, Rahman chose a path of relentless creation. "So I thought what if I go on a rampage and keep doing movies, songs after songs?" he said. His strategy has paid off. He noted that directors now reference his recent work, like the sequence in Mani Ratnam's Thug Life, rather than only his classics.
"So, all the examples now are from the last six years. I’ve done 20-30 movies in the last six years. So, I’m safe now. I’ve got enough for the next generation. That was intentional," Rahman stated with clarity.
Embracing Evolution and Letting Go of Formulas
The Oscar-winning composer also spoke about the artistic necessity of constant reinvention. "It’s the modern, the new me. You want to keep evolving, drop your formulas," he asserted. Rahman emphasized that his personal taste must guide his work. "We’re growing old, so is the listener. Whatever comes out of the radio or TV, I should like it first. I should not think I’m still doing my own style."
He described a process of selective curation from his vast experience. "Whatever I’ve learnt, some of the stuff I keep, some of it I just throw. You jump onto what’s next. Even if it’s going to fail, it’s fine." This mindset reflects a fearless approach to creativity.
Looking Forward, Not Back at Awards
Rahman shared a powerful perspective on motivation and legacy. While he appreciates his past achievements, he does not let them define his present drive. "I love that stuff, but within me, I need to get my self-esteem and confidence back, and prove myself. What I’m doing next is going to be the best thing," he explained.
He cautioned against resting on laurels. "Not rely on the past, and be like, ‘Oh, I've won 2 Oscars.’ That thought drains you. You’re not motivated to do anything, It can be a burden." In a telling detail, Rahman revealed his social media bios contain no mention of his Oscars or Grammys. "It’s a fresh start, 2026," he declared.
What's Next for the Maestro?
Looking ahead, Rahman's calendar is packed with monumental projects. He will be largely occupied co-composing the score and songs for Nitesh Tiwari's highly anticipated two-part adaptation of the Indian epic Ramayana. The films are slated for theatrical release this Diwali and the next.
Fans can also look forward to his musical reunions. Rahman is set to work once again with longtime collaborators Imtiaz Ali and Mani Ratnam on their upcoming directorial ventures. This ensures his voice will continue to shape the soundtracks of Indian cinema for years to come.
AR Rahman's journey is a masterclass in artistic resilience. By consciously flooding the market with new work, he has built a bridge to the future. He has ensured his music remains relevant, not just remembered.
