Music composer Rahman might be working with several directors and languages across the globe, and be winning awards at international levels. But he is someone who doesn’t forget his roots, or his mother tongue!


Case in point: – When he received the Oscars, he addressed the gathering in Tamil and famously said Ella Pugazhum Iraivanukke. Even at the recently held IIFA, the Mozart of Madras announced the award for Best Actor (for a Hindi film) in Tamil.

“Rekha and Rahman were called on stage to announce the Best Actor Award, and the two obliged. While Rekha spoke in English, Rahman took over the mike and said, ‘Sirandha Nadigarukkana Virudhu _ Ranbir for Rockstar’ (The Best Actor Award goes to Ranbir for Rockstar). The crowd burst into cheers, especially Radhikaa and Sarath Kumar and Neetu Singh, when Rahman made the announcement in Tamil,” a source says.

Interestingly, Rahman will be part of the panel for IIFA Utsavam, which will honour artists from south Indian film industry.