EXCLUSIVE: AR Rahman Talks About The Evolving Concert Culture In India; Admits, “There Is A Growing Necessity For Experiences”

A.R. Rahman is an internationally acclaimed Indian composer, singer, and music producer known for revolutionizing Indian film music with his unique blend of classical, electronic, and world music influences. Rahman rose to fame with his debut score for Roja, which marked a turning point in Indian cinema’s soundscape. Over the decades, he has composed for iconic films like Dil Se, Lagaan, Rang De Basanti, Slumdog Millionaire, and many more.

Winner of numerous national and international awards, including two Academy Awards, two Grammys, a BAFTA, and a Golden Globe, Rahman is celebrated not just for his musical genius but also for his deep spiritual and humanitarian outlook. In an exclusive chat, AR Rahman talks about the growing concert culture in India.

AR Rahman On The Concert Culture In India

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Bubble, AR Rahman shares an anecdote about the growing concert culture in India, “I think the world is going through a phase where India, in a way, has the youngest audience—around 60% of them. Most of them are educated and well-paid. There is a growing necessity for experiences. Earlier, people used to be penny-wise, pound-foolish. But now, they seek experiences—they value life. Every breath is precious, which is what ornament is all about. You treat every breath as a blessing.”

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He added, “Every relationship is a blessing, because you might not have it tomorrow. I think people who want to come will come. People have gone to the Kumbh Mela—they know what they’re getting into, and they want that experience. They want to do things they may never get a chance to do again. The concept is also very similar. That phase of your life never comes back. You may not be married now, or maybe you just got married. Then you have a child, and suddenly, you don’t have the freedom to go watch a concert. So there are many aspects of life that dictate your freedom, right?”

Upcoming Concerts

A.R. Rahman has upcoming concerts as part of “The Wonderment Tour” with a global premiere in Navi Mumbai on May 3, 2025, at the D Y Patil Sports Stadium. Additionally, he is scheduled to perform in various cities across North America, including Tacoma, Oakland, Los Angeles, Sugar Land, and Grand Prairie, starting in July and continuing into August. 

Watch Full Interview

Also Read: AR Rahman & Shiamak Davar Unite For The Grand Mumbai Premiere Of The Wonderment Tour