Imagine winning two Oscars, only to feel like your best work is behind you. That's the surprising reality AR Rahman describes, revealing the pressure he feels to constantly prove himself. He admits that some people have, in a way, 'gaslighted' him, suggesting his more recent music doesn't measure up to his earlier iconic work like 'Roja'.
While Rahman acknowledges a slowdown in Hindi film projects over the past eight years, he counters that the last six years have been a period of intense creativity and productivity. He's been incredibly busy!
In a recent interview, Rahman shared that he worked on an impressive 20 to 30 films between 2019 and 2025. This wasn't by accident; it was a deliberate strategy to re-establish his presence and connect with a new generation of listeners. He noticed that audiences often view his work through a lens of nostalgia, especially those familiar with his music from the '90s. He explained that people would often say, 'In the '90s, you did Roja (1992). That’s very good music, sir!' This can feel like a subtle criticism, implying that his current work isn't as good.
But here's where it gets controversial... Rahman felt this kind of feedback could be detrimental. To combat this perception, he made a conscious choice to immerse himself in back-to-back projects. His aim was to create a body of work that would resonate with contemporary audiences. He wanted to prove that he was still at the top of his game. He says now, directors approach him and praise his recent work. He's got a solid foundation for the future.
Rahman also emphasized the importance of constant reinvention and letting go of familiar creative formulas. He wants to evolve, adapt, and embrace what's new. He believes that if he enjoys the music coming out of the radio or TV, then he's on the right track. He's willing to discard old methods and embrace the next big thing, even if it means taking risks.
And this is the part most people miss... Rahman revealed that his personal motivation is more important than past accolades. He loves his awards, but he needs to regain his self-esteem and confidence by constantly proving himself. He doesn't want to rely on past achievements. He believes that the next project will be the best one, not because of past glories, but because of his drive to create something new. He says that he doesn't even mention his Oscars or Grammys in his social media bios. It's a fresh start for him in 2026.
Looking ahead, Rahman is focusing on co-composing the score and songs for Nitesh Tiwari's two-part adaptation of the Indian epic Ramayana, which is scheduled for theatrical releases this Diwali and the next. He's also set to reunite with his longtime collaborators Imtiaz Ali and Mani Ratnam on their upcoming directorial ventures.
What do you think? Do you agree that artists face pressure to constantly evolve and meet the expectations of different generations? Or do you think it's okay for artists to rest on their laurels and stick to what they know? Share your thoughts in the comments!
