The nearly four-hour concert drew a capacity crowd, with fans capturing Rahman leading the audience in patriotic renditions that resonated emotionally with many
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Music maestro A.R. Rahman delivered a stirring performance at a sold-out concert at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on January 23, where he performed India’s national anthem Jana Gana Mana and the patriotic song Vande Mataram, moments that quickly went viral on social media.
The nearly four-hour concert drew a capacity crowd, with fans capturing Rahman leading the audience in patriotic renditions that resonated emotionally with many. Videos shared online show the composer opening the concert with Jana Gana Mana,from the soundtrack of Mani Ratnam’s Aayutha Ezhuthu and concluding with Vande Mataram/Maa Tujhe Salaam, prompting widespread applause and shared singing across the arena.
The performance took on added significance against the backdrop of recent controversy surrounding remarks Rahman made in an interview, where he suggested that shifting power dynamics in the Hindi film industry and possible communal bias may have affected his opportunities over the past several years. After the remarks sparked debate and criticism online, fans interpreted his patriotic selections in Abu Dhabi as a powerful artistic response.
Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, who attended the concert, described the show as “exhilarating,” praising Rahman’s ability to connect with the audience through a mix of soulful music and shared cultural pride.
In addition to the patriotic songs, the set included many of Rahman’s celebrated compositions, including his Oscar-winning hit Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire, as fans shared clips capturing emotional and unifying moments from the night.
Rahman later addressed critics directly in a social media video, reaffirming his love for India and clarifying that his intentions are rooted in respect for the country’s diversity and unity, following a period of heightened public discourse over his recent comments