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“So much of indian culture … (has) taken off in a big way”

By September 15, 2010 No Comments

“So much of indian culture … (has) taken off in a big way”

kristen thompson
14 September 2010 05:48

jason kempin/getty images

A.R. Rahman

Indian composer A.R. Rahman, who wrote the Grammy Award-winning song Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire, will be at the Pacific Coliseum tonight for the Vancouver stop of his world tour. Metro caught up with Rahman on his way to the airport.

How has the success of Slumdog Millionaire made South Asian music more popular in the West?

It had to some day, and the whole success of the soundtrack has helped so much. There’s so much of Indian culture — like music and yoga — that has all taken off in a big way (here).

Why did the soundtrack resonate so much with people here?

Normally when you (think of) Indian music you (think of) a Ravi Shankar with sitar, which is good but it doesn’t interest young audiences. This has drum and bass and rock, and makes it more accessible.

What’s changed now that you’re famous in Bollywood and Hollywood?

I just pay more taxes now.

If there were one Bollywood film that Vancouverites should watch, what would it be?

Raavan. (A Hindi film about a bandit leader who kidnaps and then falls in love with a policeman’s wife).

What’s your newest project?

My next project is (the soundtrack) for Danny Boyle’s 127 Hours. It premiered (Monday) night in Toronto.

Metro Vancouver