*Oscar-winning Music<http://www.indiantelevision.com/release/y2k9/may/mayrel32.php#>Maestro A. R. Rahman on CNN’s Talk Asia *
MUMBAI: He’s sold hundreds of millions of albums and was recently named as one of the world’s most influential people by Time Magazine: A R Rahman has risen to global prominence with his work on Slumdog Millionaire, which saw him become the first Indian to win two Academy Awards. The soundtrack also spawned the worldwide hit “Jai Ho”, which was covered by The Pussycat Dolls. This week, Talk Asia travels to Rahman’s home in Chennai, where the media-shy composer sits down for an expansive interview with CNN’s Anjali Rao. He also opens the doors to his recording studio, revealing the composing process which has lead to a glittering music career. Finally, Rahman takes Talk Asia on a tour of his new conservatory, where he hopes to create India’s first philharmonic orchestra. The star composer discusses his inspiration in writing the music for 'Slumdog,' discusses criticism of the film in India and shares the experience of giving an Oscar acceptance speech. He also introduces viewers to his two latest and most prized possessions - his Oscar statuettes. Rahman explains how his accolades are also recognition for India. He says, “I got very emotional when saying this is for India, when you guys truly deserve it because there are so many different film industries<http://www.indiantelevision.com/release/y2k9/may/mayrel32.php#>in India so many different markets, Hindi film <http://www.indiantelevision.com/release/y2k9/may/mayrel32.php#>industry, Tamil film industry, Malayalam, then Bengali, so in a way I think it culminates all their aspirations and so it’s here. He is critical, however, of the use of “Jai Ho” in India’s election campaigning. “I was like in the bed, I was dehydrated, exhausted, and then all these things happened, somebody told me these people are using it. I hate politics I just want people to serve the people. I want governments, whichever government comes in to be unbiased and say there should be justice in the country and that’s my purpose in life.” Rahman also discusses his early years of writing radio jingles, before he shot to stardom with the film “Roja”, which revolutionized film soundtracks. He has since collaborated with music superstars like Michael Jackson and Kylie Minogue and shares the experiences. Anjali Rao presses him on his next project, post-Oscars. “I have a couple of offers from Hollywood <http://www.indiantelevision.com/release/y2k9/may/mayrel32.php#>. Pure American movies which I thought for the heck of it let’s do it and a couple of other surprises that you’ll know very soon if it works out. Big surprises I think.” Video of the interview will be available online at www.cnn.com/talkasiaafter the first airing. http://www.indiantelevision.com/release/y2k9/may/mayrel32.php -- regards, Vithur
