Indian 2: A Symphony Without Its Maestro AR Rahman
The return of the iconic duo, Kamal Haasan and Shankar, with Indian 2 was a cinematic event eagerly awaited by millions. The original Indian was a cinematic masterpiece that resonated with audiences on multiple levels, and a significant contributor to its soul was AR Rahman’s music. When the sequel was announced, expectations were sky-high, but the absence of Rahman in the music department raised eyebrows.
The Unforgettable Symphony of Indian
The original Indian was more than just a film; it was an experience. Rahman’s music was a vital cog in this cinematic machine, elevating every emotion and amplifying the film’s impact. The haunting melodies, the energetic beats, and the poignant undertones were inseparable from the film’s narrative, creating a symphony that resonated long after the credits rolled. Rahman’s music was not merely a background score; it was a character in itself.
A New Maestro for a New Era?
When Indian 2 was announced, the absence of AR Rahman was a shock to many. In his place was Anirudh Ravichander, a talented composer with a massive fan following. While Anirudh has proven his mettle with energetic and youthful compositions, the question on everyone’s lips was: Could he fill the shoes of a legend like Rahman?
Anirudh’s music in Indian 2 is undeniably catchy and energetic, aligning with his signature style. However, it’s the emotional depth and grandeur that many felt was missing. The original Indian dealt with profound themes of social justice and personal sacrifice, and its music reflected this gravity. In contrast, Indian 2’s music, while undeniably entertaining, seemed to lack the same emotional resonance.
So even Google did not recognise Anirudh, Thank God Bing Did!
A Matter of Taste or a Missed Opportunity?
The debate around the music of Indian 2 boils down to personal preference. While some found Anirudh’s compositions refreshing and in line with the film’s contemporary tone, others felt a void where Rahman’s music should have been. It’s essential to acknowledge that music is subjective, and what resonates with one person might not with another.
However, the impact of music on a film’s overall atmosphere cannot be ignored. The original Indian is often cited as an example of how music can elevate a film to another level. While Indian 2 is a visually stunning film with powerful performances, the absence of a similarly iconic score might have left a lingering sense of something missing for some viewers.
A Bold Choice or a Missed Chance?
Director Shankar is known for his bold choices, and the decision to opt for Anirudh over Rahman was undoubtedly a gamble. Perhaps he envisioned a younger, more energetic sound for the sequel, or maybe he believed that Anirudh’s style was better suited to the film’s action-packed sequences.
Regardless of the reasons behind the decision, the fact remains that the absence of AR Rahman is a topic of discussion, even months after the film’s release. This speaks volumes about the enduring impact of his music on Indian cinema.
The Impact on the Film’s Narrative
Beyond the subjective nature of music preference, it’s worth considering how the music might have influenced the narrative of Indian 2. Rahman’s music in the original Indian often acted as a character itself, foreshadowing plot developments, enhancing emotional moments, and even providing social commentary. Did Anirudh’s music achieve the same level of integration with the narrative?
Some critics argued that the music in Indian 2 felt more like a standalone element rather than a symbiotic part of the storytelling. While Anirudh’s compositions might be individually enjoyable, they didn’t always complement the film’s narrative as seamlessly as Rahman’s did in the original.
The Broader Implications
The choice of music for Indian 2 also raises questions about the evolving role of music in Indian cinema. Is the industry moving towards a more commercial, youth-oriented sound, even at the cost of emotional depth? Or is it a matter of finding the right balance between catering to different audiences while maintaining artistic integrity?
Ultimately, Indian 2 is a film with its own strengths and weaknesses. While the music might not have reached the same heights as its predecessor, it doesn’t overshadow the film’s other merits. However, the question of whether the film truly benefited from the change in music composers will continue to be a subject of debate among cinephiles.
Disclaimer: This post is based on people reviews and opinions of the film. Individual preferences, insights and experiences might be different.
Read more reviews
IMDB Review
A recent Reddit discussion in the r/kollywood subreddit explores about this topic
Would Indian 2 have got more reach if it is AR Rahman rather than Anirudh?
byu/_j_a_g_ inkollywood