A.R. Rahman, the Oscar-winning composer celebrated for his work on "Slumdog Millionaire," is once again breaking new ground with his score for the historical film "Chhaava." This project marks a significant milestone in Rahman's illustrious career, showcasing his versatility and innovative spirit. The film, directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Maddock Films, has already garnered over $33 million at the box office. Rahman shares insights into his creative process, emphasizing the importance of creating music that subtly enhances the narrative without overshadowing it. Additionally, he discusses ambitious plans to revolutionize India's musical theater scene through infrastructure development and educational initiatives.

Rahman’s collaboration with director Laxman Utekar on "Chhaava" builds on their previous success with "Mimi." For this historical epic, Rahman aimed to craft a score that would resonate globally while staying true to the story's essence. “Chhaava” stars Bollywood sensation Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, a legendary Maratha warrior king. Rahman explains that the film's music was designed to be intrinsic yet unobtrusive, enhancing the overall experience without drawing attention to itself. He began by composing a theme for the protagonist, which director Utekar found particularly inspiring. The ballad "Jaane Tu" emerged early in the process, eventually playing a pivotal role in the film’s emotional climax.

The composer faced the challenge of balancing historical authenticity with contemporary appeal. Rahman sought to create a sound that would resonate with today’s audience while remaining faithful to the period setting. This approach involved avoiding repetition of past ideas and infusing the soundtrack with a fresh, modern feel. The result is a score that seamlessly integrates traditional elements with innovative compositions, making it accessible to a broader audience. Rahman’s partnership with Sony Music India, dating back to 1997, has been instrumental in promoting his work internationally. His album "Vande Mataram" became the label’s largest-selling Indian non-film album, introducing Rahman to global audiences.

Beyond his work in cinema, Rahman is dedicated to transforming India’s musical theater landscape. In collaboration with the VGP Group, he is developing a state-of-the-art 3,000-seat theater in Chennai, alongside other projects supported by the Tamil Nadu government. Rahman emphasizes the need for monumental art centers that can serve as cultural landmarks. He aims to harness India’s architectural talent, often sought after abroad, to create structures that will define the country’s future. Educational initiatives include introducing Broadway faculty to teach musical theater at his KM Music Conservatory, where they are preparing an amateur production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s "School of Rock."

Rahman’s creative vision extends to various ongoing projects, including scores for films like "Thug Life," "Peddi," and "Tere Ishk Mein," as well as UAE director Naila Al Khaja’s "Baab." He remains optimistic about the impact of streaming platforms on music discovery, noting the emergence of new artists who are finding their unique voices. Rahman believes that artists play a crucial role in reflecting societal voids and filling them with beauty and inspiration. With access to advanced tools and technology, he encourages creators to embrace their empowerment and continue pushing boundaries in the world of music.