10th August 2023, Mumbai: AR Rahman, the maestro of musical innovation, has stirred conversations anew with his candid revelation about a conversation with the legendary Kamal Haasan. Their rendezvous took place in the hallowed halls of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles last month, infusing the air with creative camaraderie.
Rahman’s Encouraging Voice: Kamal Haasan’s Path to Hollywood and Creative Freedom
Rahman unreservedly shared his thoughts on their interaction. He recounted how he had encouraged Kamal Haasan to venture into Hollywood’s realm, to craft an English film that transcends the bounds of judgment. The music virtuoso remarked, “I feel like he got trapped in this industry over the years. It’s a good thing for us; but for him… I don’t know. 20 years ago, when he had the money, he should have just gone to Hollywood and made a film there. As an experiment perhaps, without worrying about success or failure. He can still do it actually. That’s what I told him now; to make an English film just for the heck of it and not be judgmental about it.” The words reverberate, echoing the sentiment of pursuing creative endeavors without the weight of expectation.
Rahman and Kamal Haasan’s LA Encounter
Their LA Tour also included an encounter with the cinematic marvel “Oppenheimer,” an experience that the virtuoso shared with Kamal Haasan. This cinematic rendezvous was followed by a convivial lunch, during which the depth of Kamal’s storytelling prowess left Rahman enchanted. Rahman marveled at Kamal’s lineage, rooted in six generations of filmmaking, and relished the anecdotes that flowed effortlessly from the actor. Kamal’s insatiable appetite for cinema, his ability to recollect scenes, dialogues, and trivia from a multitude of films, stirred a connection in Rahman, reminding him of the wonder and enthusiasm that the industry holds.
Kamal Haasan and AR Rahman’s Creative Collab
Reflecting on their shared adventures, Kamal Haasan took to Instagram to post a picture, aptly captioned, “Boys in the wood !! Found a young man who is older than I am, and that’s why I keep young company. @arrahman.” The photograph captures the essence of their bond, their creative souls resonating in the heart of Hollywood. Looking ahead, Kamal Haasan’s cinematic voyage continues with projects that promise to captivate audiences. The highly anticipated “Indian 2,” a sequel to the iconic Tamil classic “Indian,” awaits his charismatic presence. Additionally, the star graces the cast of “Kalki 2898 AD,” a cinematic extravaganza that brings together luminaries like Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Disha Patani.
AR Rahman’s candid words illuminate the pursuit of creative endeavors beyond boundaries. His sage advice to Kamal Haasan resonates far beyond the realm of cinema, embracing the spirit of unfettered experimentation and a refusal to be swayed by conventional expectations. As the two titans of the creative world converged, their collaboration kindles a fire that fuels dreams and breaks chains, inspiring all to embark on journeys uncharted.
By Yashika Desai.