Two-time Academy Award-winning composer and global music icon A.R. Rahman is set to receive the Lakshminarayana International Award at a special ceremony marking the curtain raiser of the 35th Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival. The event will take place on December 15, 2025, at 2 PM at the Rasika Ranjani Sabha in Chennai.
Instituted to honour legendary artists for their contributions to the arts, the Lakshminarayana International Award has previously recognised eminent figures across music and culture. This year, the spotlight turns to Rahman, whose transformative work has redefined the soundscape of Indian cinema and elevated Indian music to global acclaim.
Rahman, trained in Western classical music at Trinity College, London, made a historic debut with Roja in 1992, winning the National Award. Since then, he has earned six more National Awards—the most for any Indian composer—and has sold over 150 million records across more than 100 film soundtracks and albums. His landmark works include Bombay, Dil Se, Taal, Lagaan, Slumdog Millionaire, and 127 Hours. His compositions have consistently blended Indian classical traditions with global influences, creating a unique musical identity.
The Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival, founded by violin maestro L. Subramaniam in memory of his father Professor V. Lakshminarayana, has become a platform for celebrating excellence in music and fostering cross-cultural collaborations. The 2025 edition marks its 35th year, with Rahman’s felicitation serving as a symbolic tribute to his enduring impact on the arts.
Organisers highlighted Rahman’s role in nurturing young talent and promoting Indian music on international stages. His initiatives, including the KM Music Conservatory in Chennai, have trained hundreds of aspiring musicians, furthering his vision of creating a global dialogue through music.
The award ceremony is expected to draw leading figures from the world of music and culture, setting the tone for the festival’s upcoming performances. For fans and fellow artists alike, Rahman’s recognition underscores his stature as one of India’s most influential cultural ambassadors.
