AR Rahman Calls For A Revival Of Indian Classical Music: ‘We Don’t Know Who’s Next’

The Indian music landscape is currently dominated by Punjabi uptempo beats, rap, hip-hop, and indie tracks, leaving Indian classical music struggling for visibility. Concerned about the genre’s diminishing influence, Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has called for a “collective revival” of Indian classical music.

In a conversation with Hindustan Times, Rahman emphasized the urgent need to nurture classical talent. “We have lost so many legends—Ustad Zakir Hussain, Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, Ustad Rashid Khan, and Bismillah Khan sahab. The next big artiste is yet to emerge. I want to dedicate my time to identifying and mentoring the right classical talent,” he shared.

Rahman recently made headlines for his electrifying performance with global superstar Ed Sheeran in Chennai. He has also been actively performing Sufi concerts worldwide, including Haazri, his Mumbai concert last month—his first in the city in five years.

Beyond performances, Rahman has launched the Bharat Maestro Awards, an initiative aimed at recognizing and uplifting classical musicians. Explaining its purpose, he stated, “Classical musicians deserve greater respect for their years of dedication and practice. This initiative is about finding exceptional talent, giving them the right platform, and identifying the future masters of Indian classical music.”

A staunch advocate of Sufi music, Rahman has often infused its spiritual essence into his compositions. He describes the genre as his “natural calling,” appreciating its ability to transcend religious boundaries and connect with humanity on a profound level.

With a legacy of timeless compositions in films like Dil Se, Slumdog Millionaire, and Amar Singh Chamkila, Rahman continues to shape the Indian music industry—not just through his own work, but by ensuring the future of its classical roots.