Music composer A.R. Rahman gave his fans, admirers and well-wishers yet another reason to celebrate on Monday by winning two Grammy awards.
Though the Mozart of Madras has received some of the most coveted awards, the Grammy is, indeed, special for a musician.
Playback singer S.P. Balasubramaniam felt Rahman truly deserved the honour. “He has already received the pinnacle of awards, but he will continue receiving every coveted award in the field of music.”
Observing that Rahman’s victory was not something that came overnight, he said: “I’ve known him from when he was a child. He is a completely self-made musician who has put in tremendous hard work. Importantly, he is a very good human being.” “He has certainly put Dr. Subbarayan Nagar on the world map of music.”
Rage since its launch
“It is quite fitting that a musical genius like him has won the Grammy awards,” said director Gautam Menon. The music of his impending film Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya, scored by Rahman, has been a rage since its launch. “It is astounding to see how the awards come through. Twenty years ago, the Indian film industry was nowhere near Hollywood. Now the world’s eyes are set on Indian films and film music, thanks to Rahman,” he said, adding that more awards were lined up for his musical innovations. Working with Rahman is a thing of pride for drummer Sivamani. “Grammy is the best thing a musician can ever get. It is such a proud moment for all of us.” Extolling Rahman’s compositions, Sivamani said the genius had been giving some extraordinary numbers for long and only now recognitions had begun to come his way.
“Now that the world has recognised his talent, there is no stopping him.”
Family overjoyed
Rahman’s family in Chennai is also visibly overjoyed. His sister Rahane heard the news from her mother who is with Rahman.
“She called me to break the good news and it was great to know he won not one, but two awards. He has won a series of awards, but the Grammy is a musician’s dream! I am extremely happy for him. God has blessed him.”
While Rahane felt this would open the doors for him further, she hoped he would come up with more video albums. “That would be really nice.”
Of course, Rahman in his inimitable style, said: “This is insane…I never even dreamt about winning all these awards. I once again want to thank the Almighty.” He also thanked his colleagues, associates and family.
