Renowned composer and Oscar winner, AR Rahman, recently shared his insights on the intersection of scent cinema, artificial intelligence, and the reinvention of Indian music culture at the India Global Forum London 2025. Rahman emphasized the importance of nurturing creative freedom and cultural innovation in the arts, urging artists, institutions, and governments to support and promote these values.
During the discussion, Rahman revealed his inspiration behind his immersive project, Le Musk, which combines scent, touch, and narrative to create a unique theatrical experience. He emphasized the need for artists to push boundaries and explore new forms of expression beyond traditional cinema formats.
Rahman also highlighted the importance of preserving traditional Indian music and supporting emerging talent in the industry. Through initiatives like JHAALA, Rahman aims to platform and preserve Indian classical arts, ensuring that these rich cultural traditions are not lost to time.
When discussing artificial intelligence, Rahman expressed both caution and curiosity, noting the potential of AI to enhance creativity and innovation in the arts. He encouraged artists to embrace technology and use it as a tool for accelerating mundane tasks, rather than fearing its impact on human creativity.
In addition to his insights on technology and art, Rahman called for a national cultural renaissance in India, drawing parallels to the success of K-pop in South Korea. He emphasized the need for government support and collective action to reinvent the Indian music industry and promote cultural growth on a global scale.
Throughout the conversation, Rahman emphasized the importance of artistic freedom and the transformative power of music in bridging cultural divides. He concluded by reminding the audience that music transcends religion and nationality, serving as a universal language that connects people on a deeper level.
The India Global Forum London 2025 provided a platform for thought leaders, artists, and innovators to explore the future of creativity and cultural exchange in a rapidly changing world. As the event marked a decade since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to the UK, it celebrated the ongoing collaboration between the UK and India in shaping the future of global culture and commerce.
For more information on the India Global Forum and to stay updated on future events, visit their website at indiaglobalforum.com. Follow their social media handles and hashtag #IGFLondon for the latest updates and discussions on art, culture, and innovation in the global landscape.