AR Rahman and Shankar Mahadevan: A Dynamic Musical Collaboration
AR Rahman and Shankar Mahadevan, two stalwarts of the Indian music industry, embarked on their first collaborative journey during the creation of the soundtrack for Mani Ratnam’s iconic film, Bombay. The year was 1995, and little did they know that their partnership would go on to shape the landscape of Indian film music for decades to come.
Shankar Mahadevan, known for his soulful and versatile voice, was enlisted by Rahman to lend his vocals for the background score of Bombay. As they began their work together, Mahadevan quickly realized that Rahman’s approach to music creation was far from traditional. In a recent conversation, Mahadevan reminisced about the unique experience of working with Rahman in the recording studio.
He described the process as “organic,” emphasizing that it was a space where experimentation and exploration thrived. Rahman’s visionary mindset encouraged them to push boundaries and try different approaches, allowing the music to evolve naturally. However, despite the collaborative nature of their work, it was Rahman who ultimately made the final decisions on what would best serve the film.
In the nearly three decades since their first collaboration, Shankar Mahadevan observed that Rahman has remained largely unchanged as a person. He still carries the same down-to-earth and modest demeanor that endeared him to people from the beginning. However, Mahadevan noted that Rahman has grown more courageous in his interactions, shedding the self-consciousness that once accompanied him. This newfound confidence extends not only to his personal interactions but also to his on-stage presence, where he exudes a tenfold increase in self-assurance. Yet, at his core, Rahman remains a deeply spiritual and musically charged individual, retaining the qualities that make him truly special.
Reflecting on Rahman’s evolution as a composer, Mahadevan emphasized his constant pursuit of musical knowledge. Rahman’s unwavering commitment to learning and growth has enabled him to blossom as a musician and technical expert. Mahadevan pointed out that Rahman’s sense of harmony has undergone a remarkable transformation, particularly after collaborating with international artists. The infusion of diverse musical influences has expanded his repertoire, evident in his use of western classical orchestration and modern arrangements. Rahman’s music has evolved, reflecting a harmonious blend of traditional Indian melodies and global influences.
The impact of their collaboration on Bombay’s soundtrack was nothing short of groundbreaking. The music resonated with audiences across India, captivating hearts and minds with its poignant compositions and soul-stirring melodies. Such was the impact of Rahman’s work that Time magazine recognized Bombay’s score as one of the ten best in the world.
The synergy between AR Rahman and Shankar Mahadevan continues to be celebrated and cherished by music lovers worldwide. Their collaboration represents the embodiment of artistic exploration, fearlessly venturing into uncharted territories while remaining true to their musical roots. Their ability to create compositions that seamlessly blend Indian heritage with global sensibilities has made them pioneers in the Indian film music industry.
As Rahman and Mahadevan embark on new musical endeavors, their fans eagerly anticipate the magic that will unfold when these two musical geniuses come together once again. Their legacy serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and the boundless potential of music to transcend cultural boundaries, uniting people through the language of melodies and harmonies.