Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio And A. R. Rahman Announce ‘Naga International Studio’ In Kohima

Nagaland is set to get a major creative landmark with the announcement of the Naga International Studio by A. R. Rahman, a world-class music production and creative facility to be established in Kohima. The initiative was jointly announced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, and Oscar- and Grammy-winning composer Dr. A. R. Rahman.

Conceptualised by Rahman, the studio will house state-of-the-art recording facilities, a performance auditorium and supporting creative infrastructure, aimed at nurturing talent and fostering world-class music creation in the region.

Welcoming Rahman to his native village of Touphema in Kohima district, Chief Minister Rio described the project as a meaningful step towards strengthening Nagaland’s creative ecosystem. He noted that the initiative reflects Rahman’s affection for the Naga people and his commitment to supporting artistic talent in India’s farthest regions. Assuring full support from the state government, Dr. Rio said the project aligns with a shared vision of encouraging creativity, innovation and excellence.

Rahman, in turn, expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Nagaland for their support. He described Nagaland as having a rare and deeply rooted musical soul, adding that the Naga International Studio is envisioned as a space where local heritage can meet global creativity. According to Rahman, the facility will enable young artists from the region to collaborate, experiment and create music with national and international resonance.

During his visit, Rahman also unveiled the trailer of the documentary ‘Headhunting to Beatboxing’, directed by Rohit Gupta and produced by Rahman himself. The film traces Nagaland’s musical renaissance and its evolving creative identity.

The Naga International Studio has been designed by Bluecube Architects and Riyasdeen Riyan, and facilitated by the Task Force for Music & Arts (TAFMA) along with the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), marking a significant step in positioning Nagaland on the global creative map.