Rahman speaks on Slumdog, Sufism and Sindhu Bhairavi
16 Jan 2009, 0020 hrs IST
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CHENNAI: It is night, and unlike the late hours on Wednesday,Rahman's
house is quiet. His younger children Rahima and Ameen spray snow foam on
each other when Rahman's mother comes down and tells the waiting media that
Rahman has just finished dinner. "He hardly slept last night and he will be
down shortly." Rahman talks to TOI
Q: How different was Slumdog Millionaire' (SD) from other foreign
productions ?
A: There was much less work. I did not have to give 190 cues, and director
Boyle gave specific instructions on what he wanted. I had a clear idea on
what should go into the music. Putting the sitar in was a complete surprise.
Q: What has the international response been like?
A: The film was like a holiday to Mumbai for viewers and they could connect
with the hero because USA is also going through recession. It was also a
relief from the usual kind of film scores.
Q:People say you are humble. Who instilled that in you?
A: I follow the Sufi philosophy of destroying your own ego. Not that I have
mastered it, I still land up in situations I could have avoided.
Q: What do you look for in vocalists and instrumentalists?
A: Great personality. Should be a quick learner, and have a feel for the
music. Should have a quality of his own, not copy or imitate.
Q: How do you make time for the ordinary things in life?
A: I do that all the time, because the ordinary things divert you. I took
the children to my flat in London while scoring for SD and it was half-work,
half-holiday. It was great fun.
Q: The defining moment in your career?
A: The National Award for my first film. I thought it comes only when people
retire.
Q: A few of your favourite things?
A: Sindhu Bhairavi(Carnatic raga), home food even if its rasam sadam',
Regent's Park in London and all the music stores in USA.
Q: What went through your mind when you walked down the carpet to the Golden
Globe?
A: Each little moment was the best. My wife Saira had helped me pick an
Armani suit in Thailand, and I was wearing it because it is Hollywood. And
for the first time in my life I felt tense. I prefer kurtas usually.
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regards,
Vithur
