For a man who's just become the first Indian to win two Oscars, A R Rahman couldn't be any more humble. His first reaction is to thank all those who have prayed for him and supported his music. Rahman takes out a few minutes to tell us what it feels like to win the most prestigious award in world cinema and what it means for India's film industry.
When the evening kicked off, did you think you would end the night with two Oscars?
I had very little expectation to win anything so I was concentrating on the performance. When the first award was announced I was almost mute and then I went on to perform. After the performance when the second award was presented, that’s when I realised the enormity of the occasion. I'm very grateful to all the prayers and wishes of the people in India and the world who have appreciated my music.
What was your favourite moment at the awards?
I really loved having the kids who acted in Slumdog there. The way the kids came in was wonderful and it was so moving. In fact, they were so touched, it was such a big moment for them too that they were all crying in the end.
Are there any plans for a celebration back here in India?
Yes, absolutely. I actually want to host a celebration honouring all the musicians, singers, lyric writers and everyone else from the music industry who has worked with me from the time of my first film Roja. I’ve had this in mind for a while now and since the Oscars have happened, I think its apt to have it now.
The song Jai Ho has become the anthem of the nation. What does it mean to you now?
I always believe that words have a power and that's the reason I sometimes fight with lyricists and tell them not to put negative words in songs. Words mock the action and intention of real life according to me. Subhash Ghai was the one who suggested that I should have a song with the words Jai Ho. So when I read the script of Slumdog I thought it would fit in well. Danny loved it too. There was another song in the contention but I believe it was the destiny of this song to be felicitated.
This success opens many doors for you, will Bollywood continue to be the main focus for you?
Well, I've taken advances and spent them already. [Laughs] So I need to do those films. I'm coming back to India very soon to work on the films that i've commited myself to and I'm a man of my word so I will be back there soon.
According to you, how will Resul Pookutty’s and your triumph impact the film industry and its professionals here?
It is a good starting point. I see this as a bridge for the Indian industry to go truly global. Earlier, there was an aversion when a different kind of cinema was played in America and this actually led to a collusion. Now that Hollywood has accepted Slumdog, I think it sets a trend. If we make more films that can appeal to a global audience then many more Indians can cross over to the international film industries.
What are the perceptions about India in Hollywood and how will this change now?
Everyone treats each other as equals here. think this is a great start and a great time to do some original and credible work and push the envelop to take the Indian film industry to a great height.
Sources From Economic Times
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