Why AR Rahman’s National Role Needs A New Songbook

On the auspicious day of Basant Panchami, when Indian classical musicians traditionally invoke Raag Basant and dedicate themselves to Saraswati , the goddess of knowledge and artistic inspiration, it’s worth reflecting on the role of India’s most celebrated music composer in the broader cultural and national landscape. Basant is a season of renewal, creativity and deep artistic introspection, and this Basant moment invites us to consider how music for Bharat might evolve as India navigates both artistic identity and national purpose.

A recent controversy around an interview with AR Rahman exemplifies a larger question: what does it mean for a towering artistic figure to represent India not just culturally, but nationally? The original article argues that Rahman , whose journey from Chennai to international acclaim has made him a symbol of India’s soft power , now faces a moment where the nature of his contribution must shift from individual artistry to collective cultural stewardship.

Rahman’s music has long served as a bridge between classical traditions and contemporary sensibilities, drawing from deep roots while engaging global audiences. But as Indian society confronts questions of identity, heritage and cultural prioritisation, the piece suggests that Rahman’s role may need to expand beyond composing melodies for cinema or international projects. Instead, he is called upon to serve as a custodian of India’s diverse musical legacy, advocating for deeper engagement with classical forms, indigenous instruments, and the voices of traditional maestros whose art is often sidelined.

The article highlights how conversations about music too often get diverted into political framing or superficial debate, rather than engaging with the substance of art and tradition. A.R. Rahman’s own journey , deeply rooted in both Carnatic and global music practices ,positions him uniquely to help bridge these worlds. But the author argues that merely celebrating Rahman as a global icon does not do justice to his potential role as a champion for India’s classical and folk music lineages.

From the perspective of India’s musical ecosystem, the call is not for Rahman to abandon his personal creative path, but to redefine his national contribution. This could mean more active mentorship of emerging artists steeped in tradition, preserving rare musical forms, or leveraging his platform to ensure India’s vast musical heritage gets the recognition and continuity it deserves.

Underlying the argument is a broader cultural observation: music is not merely entertainment, it is knowledge (vidya) ,a discipline that carries history, identity and collective memory. In invoking Basant, the article urges a reinvigoration of this worldview, suggesting that India’s greatest musicians , including Rahman , should help shape not just soundtracks, but national cultural consciousness.

In essence, the piece does not diminish Rahman’s achievements; rather, it proposes a larger stage for his influence , one where artistic excellence and national cultural guardianship go hand in hand. As India’s cultural ambitions grow, the argument goes, so too should the roles its icons play in nurturing and defending the musical soul of the nation.