Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman opened up about his experience composing music for Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayan, reflecting on his unique position as a Muslim working on a Hindu epic alongside fellow composer Hans Zimmer. Speaking on BBC Asian’s YouTube channel, Rahman emphasized that art transcends religious and cultural boundaries, and he drew on his early education in a Brahmin school, where he studied the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Rahman said, “The story is about virtue and higher ideals. People may argue, but I value all those good things—any lessons you can learn from. Knowledge is invaluable, no matter its source.” He added that individuals should rise above small-mindedness and selfishness, highlighting the collaborative and universal nature of the project. “Hans Zimmer is Jewish, I am Muslim, and the Ramayana is Hindu,” Rahman noted, underscoring the cross-cultural dimension of the soundtrack.

Discussing the creative process, Rahman explained that scoring such an iconic tale is both thrilling and challenging. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, he described working with Zimmer on soundscapes and incorporating Sanskrit lyrics to give audiences a fresh yet authentic experience. “We have to give something to the world—from India to the world,” he said.

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Rahman also highlighted the need to balance tradition with innovation. Collaborating with Dr. Kumar Vishwas on lyrics, he said they are unlearning instinctive approaches to the Ramayana while embracing the epic’s timeless qualities. “Every atom of his body speaks Ramayana,” Rahman said of Vishwas, praising his deep knowledge and passion.

The film, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, features a star-studded cast including Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, Ravi Dubey, Sunny Deol, Kajal Aggarwal, Arun Govil, and Indira Krishnan. Rahman expressed pride in the project, noting it is a labor of love designed to resonate with audiences worldwide while honoring India’s rich cultural heritage.

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