A.R. Rahman, Imtiaz Ali Pay Tribute To Indian Armed Forces At Attari Border Ahead Of Main Vaapas Aaunga
The celebrations concluded with Rahman's patriotic anthem Maa Tujhe Salaam
The celebrations concluded with Rahman's patriotic anthem Maa Tujhe Salaam
Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali and Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman paid tribute to India's armed forces at the Attari Border on June 7 through a special musical event titled Jai Ho – A Musical Salute to the Bravehearts.
Held during the iconic Beating Retreat Ceremony, the event marked Rahman's first-ever live performance at the Attari Border Post, drawing thousands of spectators to celebrate patriotism, sacrifice and national unity.
Addressing the gathering, Imtiaz Ali described the performance as a tribute to the spirit of the nation and the courage of the Border Security Force and Indian Army personnel. He also reflected on the themes of his upcoming film Main Vaapas Aaunga, which is set against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition.
Speaking about the project, Ali said the film explores the emotional aftermath of Partition, highlighting stories of separation, loss and enduring human connections. He noted that while homes and lives were disrupted, the deepest wounds were often matters of the heart, adding that the film ultimately carries a message of love and humanity.
The event also served as a showcase for Main Vaapas Aaunga, with Ali, actor Vedang Raina and producer Mohit Choudhary dedicating the film's forthcoming soundtrack to the bravery and sacrifice of India's defence forces.
The evening began with Rahman's rendition of Chanda Suraj Lakhon Taare and featured performances from the film's music album by Mohit Chauhan, Nilanjana Ghosh, Pooja Tiwari, Nargis and Vedang Raina. The celebrations concluded with Rahman's patriotic anthem Maa Tujhe Salaam.
Set in Imtiaz Ali's signature world of love, longing and human relationships, Main Vaapas Aaunga stars Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari Wagh and Vedang Raina. The film features music by A.R. Rahman and lyrics by Irshad Kamil.
Produced by Birla Studios, Applause Entertainment and Window Seat Films, the film is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on June 12, 2026.