The prestigious Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, nestled within the bustling landscape of Los Angeles, is set to host an event that pays homage to the musical heritage of Indian cinema in the context of its influence and recognition within the esteemed Oscars. This unique celebration will underscore the cultural impact of India’s film music on the global stage, with particular focus on the resounding success of three iconic films: “Lagaan” (2001), “Slumdog Millionaire” (2008), and “RRR” (2022). Each of these exceptional films not only captivated audiences worldwide but also gained critical acclaim and recognition at the Academy Awards, a testament to their cinematic and musical artistry.
The exclusive event is slated for May 18 at the David Geffen Theatre located within the Academy Museum complex—a marvel of contemporary design dedicated to the art and science of movies. It promises to be an evening filled with insight, nostalgia, and live performances that mirror the dynamic and emotive essence of Indian film scores.
“Lagaan,” a groundbreaking film directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and featuring Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, emerged as a pivotal force in showcasing Indian cinema to a diverse global audience. While the film secured a coveted nomination for Best International Feature Film at the Oscars, it was its timeless soundtrack composed by the maestro A.R. Rahman that left an enduring mark on the ethos of film music. The composition reflected not just the film’s period setting and dramatic narrative but also the evolving sophistication of Indian film music on international platforms.
Danny Boyle’s “Slumdog Millionaire,” scored by that same A.R. Rahman, became a cultural phenomenon, reaping an astonishing ten Oscar nominations and triumphantly collecting eight golden statuettes. Among its many accolades were those for Best Original Score and Best Original Song for the rousing anthem ‘Jai Ho.’ Rahman’s eclectic score bridged diverse musical traditions and captured the pulsating energy and pathos of the film’s story, cementing his reputation as one of the great global ambassadors of Indian music.
Drawing the arc from the traditional to the contemporary, “RRR” blazed onto the scene with the electrifying song ‘Naatu Naatu,’ composed by M. M. Keeravani. This Telugu-language blockbuster directed by SS Rajamouli showcased the innate power of Indian dance music to transcend language and cultural barriers, as evidenced by its Oscar win for Best Original Song—a rare and prestigious achievement.
Adding to the vibrancy of the event, Aakansha Maheshwari with her celebrated dance troupe Bollypop, and the musical duo Sadubas consisting of Robin Sukhadia and Ameet Mehta, will reinterpret the music from all three acclaimed films. These performances are primed to defy traditional genres as they effortlessly blend dance and live tabla beats, creating an experiential canvas that mirrors the diverse and rich tapestry of Indian film music.
More than just an evening of reflection and melody, this event is a reverent nod to the burgeoning influence of Indian cinema in global popular culture. The music of Indian cinema, with its intricate rhythms, complex melodies, and profound emotional depth, continues to capture hearts across continents. That the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures recognizes and celebrates this influence is a recognition of India’s cinematic journey and an acknowledgment of the universal language of music.
In summary, this event serves as a conduit for cultural exchange and a celebration of the unifying power of music and film. It emphasizes that while Indian cinema has long flourished within its own rich traditions and vibrant community, its soulful music, much like its films, can resonate, inspire, and captivate audiences far beyond its borders.
