AR Rahman Celebrates Global Recognition of Indian Music with Upcoming Tour
A New Era for Indian Artistes
Renowned music composer AR Rahman, known for his remarkable achievements including Grammy Awards, expresses his belief that Indian artists are finally receiving the international acclaim they deserve. As he prepares for his highly anticipated The Wonderment Tour, Rahman emphasizes that this is an exciting time for musicians.
He reflects on the past, stating, 'The music industry was often overlooked. When someone mentions, 'My child is a singer,' the response is often skepticism about their career choice. This perception still lingers.'
Rahman notes the increasing visibility of independent bands at major events like Coachella, saying, 'This is a dream come true, and it’s happening. Artists are winning Grammys now.'
In February, Indian-American singer Chandrika Tandon won a Grammy for Best New Age Album for her work Triveni, following a year when five Indian musicians received the prestigious award. Recently, rapper Hanumankind made his debut at Coachella 2025, showcasing the growing presence of Indian talent.
At 58, Rahman believes in the 'universality' of Indian music, which he feels can resonate with audiences worldwide. He states, 'India has a rich cultural heritage. The challenge now is to share it globally, especially in a world influenced by Western culture. People are seeking alternative cultures, and we have the potential to appeal to them. We already have dedicated fans in places like Russia and Japan.'
The upcoming concert is described by Rahman as a heartfelt tribute to the blessings he has received throughout his 30-year career. He shares, 'It's thrilling to perform for those who appreciate your music. I always see myself as part of the audience, which influences our song choices, arrangements, and visuals.'
He adds, 'I wanted to return to a theme that honors every blessing we've received. This is my wonderment—a celebration of every breath, every moment of love, and the reasons fans choose to support us.' Rahman’s first live concert took place in Malaysia in 1996 for a charity event.
The tour's global premiere is set to be a spectacular concert during the WAVES summit in Mumbai from May 1 to 4. Tickets can be purchased through the Zomato app.