Sai Abhyankkar Replaces AR Rahman As Composer For Suriya-RJ Balaji’s Upcoming Film

The most-streamed Tamil song of 2024 on Spotify Wrapped, "Katchi Sera," has made waves, propelling independent artist Sai Abhyankkar into the limelight. Composed and performed by Abhyankkar, the track's success is even more remarkable given that he is the son of renowned singers Tippu and Harini. In a major career boost, Abhyankkar has been appointed as the music director for Suriya's upcoming film with RJ Balaji, tentatively titled Suriya 45. Initially, AR Rahman was set to compose the music for the film, but Dream Warrior Pictures recently revealed Abhyankkar as the new composer.

Along with Abhyankkar, cinematographer GK Vishnu, known for his work with director Atlee, will also join the project. This marks Vishnu’s first full-length Tamil film outside of his collaborations with Atlee. The announcement follows rumors of AR Rahman taking a break from composing, though his daughter Khatija Rahman has dismissed these claims. While speculation swirled around Abhyankkar replacing Rahman, sources suggest that the shift was due to scheduling conflicts.

Sai Abhyankkar is also set to debut as a music director in Raghava Lawrence's Benz, which is part of the highly anticipated Lokesh Kanagaraj Cinematic Universe. Additionally, Abhyankkar recently completed work on Suriya 44, directed by Karthik Subbaraj. Suriya 45 will mark the first collaboration between Suriya and RJ Balaji, who previously directed Mookuthi Amman and Veetla Vishesham.