As Indians, we all felt a great sense of pride and happiness when we saw A.R. Rahman win the award for Best Soundtrack for the critically acclaimed film Slumdog Millionaire at the Golden Globes. And why not? It’s not everyday that an Indian musical maestro such as Rahman is honored with such a prestigious award and recognized on an international platform. While Rahman was humble and grateful for being admired for his inborn talent, the rest of Bollywood was bowled over and thrilled.
Lyricist and good friend to Rahman, Gulzar was over the hill with joy. In his words to IANS, he said, “It’s the horse that has won the race!” One of the tracks on the album ‘Jai Ho’ was penned by Gulzar sahib himself. In his opinion, it was a double whammy! Gulzar was all praise for the director who he believes has broken all moulds of otherwise stereotypical Hindi music. The duo will be seen soon again as they are currently working on the music of Mani Ratnam’s Ravan.
The Bachchan khandan were elated for the music director. Beta Abhishek and bahu Aishwarya both consider themselves lucky to have danced to Rahman’s tunes in various films including Yuva, Guru and the upcoming Delhi 6. Papa Bachchan believed his award was “well deserved”.
Other musical greats also had lots to say when news broke of Rahman’s win. Javed Akhtar said, “I’m thrilled, happy and proud, but not at all surprised.” Shekhar Ravjiani of Vishal-Shekhar fame had lots to say, “Rahman is a genius. The music of Slumdog Millionaire is outstanding. It deserves every award on this planet. I’m extremely happy for him.” Singers Sunidhi Chauhan and Shreya Ghosal were excited for one of their favorite music directors, “I’m too too happy to say anything… I’m glad the West is realising his worth,” said Sunidhi while Shreya believed “This is just the beginning for him… I’m very proud of Rahman sir.”
Filmmakers of all statures were exhilarated with Rahman’s win. Everyone from Vishal Bhardwaj, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and Farhan Akhtar clearly all agreed with the Foreign Press’ consensus to honor him with the award. Ashutosh Gowariker who has worked with Rahman in two of his biggest hits, Swades and Lagaan was extremely thrilled upon hearing of Rahman’s big accomplishment. “In one word he is fantastic! He’s a trailblazer,” were his words of praise for the music director.
As you can see Bollywood loves Rahman. Not only for his musical talents but for his humility and simplicity. His speech too was adored by the fraternity. “Short, sweet and superb” were some of the adjectives used to describe his fabulous acceptance speech. So while we count down to the Oscars, pray and hope that Rahman wins the ultimate honor which he deserves, we can’t help but sing, “Jai Ho” Rahman!
