- A.R. Rahman wins his seventh National Award at the 70th National Film Awards for the background score of Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1.
- Rahman becomes India’s most-awarded music director, surpassing Ilaiyaraaja’s record of five National Awards.
- His latest work with Mani Ratnam continues a longstanding creative partnership, celebrated across Indian cinema.
A.R. Rahman, one of India’s most influential music composers, has achieved yet another milestone by winning his seventh National Award for Best Music Director (Background Score).
The accolade was awarded for his work on the Tamil film Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1, directed by Mani Ratnam. This win marks a significant moment in Rahman’s career, pushing him ahead of other musical greats like Ilaiyaraaja, who held the previous record with five National Awards.
Rahman Breaks Records: Seventh National Award for the Musical Maestro
Rahman’s award-winning background score for Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1 highlights his deep understanding of Indian classical music blended with modern cinematic elements. His ability to create atmospheric, evocative soundscapes is a testament to his versatility and innovation, particularly in Tamil cinema. His collaboration with Mani Ratnam, a frequent director-partner, continues to produce groundbreaking work that resonates with audiences both in India and internationally.
The award-winning score for Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1 is one of Rahman’s finest works, characterized by its richness and intricate layering of music that perfectly complements the historical epic’s narrative. This musical achievement stands as a testament to Rahman’s versatility and commitment to redefining soundtracks in Indian cinema, making his music an integral part of storytelling.
Rahman’s long-standing collaboration with director Mani Ratnam has yielded numerous iconic films, with Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1 being one of the most recent. Their creative partnership, which began in the 1990s, continues to deliver powerful cinematic experiences through their seamless blend of music and visuals. Their work has frequently pushed the boundaries of traditional Indian filmmaking, setting new standards in both music composition and cinematic presentation.
Beyond accolades and awards, Rahman’s influence stretches far beyond Tamil cinema. His ability to merge Indian classical music with global sounds has earned him acclaim across the world. Known for scores in films such as Slumdog Millionaire and Bombay, Rahman remains an influential figure in global cinema, shaping how music is integrated into the fabric of storytelling.
Rahman’s seventh National Award win for Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1 is more than just a milestone in his career; it symbolizes his enduring influence on Indian and global cinema. His innovative approach to music continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and musicians alike.
“Music is the only language I speak really well. It doesn’t need translation or subtitles, and that’s its beauty.” — A.R. Rahman
