Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman wins Tamil Nadu State Award for Best Music Director for Ponniyin Selvan – I. Rahman thanks the state government and continues to be celebrated for his iconic film music.
Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman has been honored with the Tamil Nadu State Award for Best Music Director for his exceptional work in Mani Ratnam’s historical epic Ponniyin Selvan – I.
Sharing the news on X, A R Rahman expressed his gratitude to the state government, saying, “I am deeply honored to receive the Tamil Nadu State Award for Best Music Director for Ponniyin Selvan – I. My heartfelt thanks to the Government of Tamil Nadu for this recognition. Warm congratulations to all the other awardees.”
Honoured to receive the Tamil Nadu State Award for Best Music Director for Ponniyin Selvan – I.
My sincere thanks to the Government of Tamil Nadu for this recognition.
Warmest congratulations to all the other awardees.#EPI @mkstalin @CMOTamilnadu @udhaystalin #Maniratnam
— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) January 30, 2026
Recognition for Iconic Film Score
A R Rahman’s compositions for Ponniyin Selvan – I were widely acclaimed for blending classical Indian music with cinematic grandeur, significantly enhancing the film’s emotional and narrative depth. This accolade adds to Rahman’s already extensive list of state, national, and international awards, cementing his status as a leading figure in Indian cinema.
Rahman to Attend Melania Trump Documentary Premiere
In other news, A R Rahman is set to attend the premiere of the documentary “Melania” at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC on January 29 (ET). The film provides a behind-the-scenes look at the First Lady during critical political moments.
The globally celebrated composer will share the event with high-profile personalities including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, hip-hop artist Waka Flocka Flame, and Jordan Belfort, whose life inspired The Wolf of Wall Street.
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Addressing Recent Controversy
Recently, Rahman faced criticism following remarks in an interview where he mentioned, “People who are not creative have the power now to decide things, and this might have been a communal thing also, but not in my face.”
Responding to the backlash, Rahman released a video message on Instagram, clarifying his intentions: “India is my inspiration, my teacher, and my home. Intentions can sometimes be misunderstood, but my purpose has always been to uplift, honor, and serve through music. I have never wished to cause pain, and I hope my sincerity is felt.”
Music as a Bridge to Culture
The 59-year-old composer emphasized that music has always been his medium to connect with people and celebrate India’s cultural diversity. Rahman, known for legendary works in films like Roja, Bombay, and Dil Se, reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to using music as a tool for unity, inspiration, and cultural respect.