From Roja to Rockstar, AR Rahman’s music has given us some unforgettable tracks. Here’s a look at some of his most iconic songs that still resonate with us today.
There’s something magical about AR Rahman’s music. It’s not just the melody or the rhythm, it's how his songs make you feel. Each note pulls you in, and every track takes you to a place you didn’t even know you needed to go. And no matter how many times you’ve heard his songs, that rush of excitement when the first note drops? It never gets old. Let’s take a trip down memory lane to revisit the moments Rahman’s music made us stop, listen, and go, “This man is a genius.”
1. Roja
It all started with Roja. With “Dil Hai Chotasa,” Rahman made longing feel like the most beautiful emotion in the world. And then there’s “Roja Jaaneman”—a track so powerful, it could make anyone believe in love. This wasn’t just a soundtrack; it was an awakening.
2. Bombay
Every track in Bombay feels like a deep breath and a punch to the gut all at once. “Tu Hi Re,” for example, is pure emotion wrapped in melody, and the theme itself gives you chills every time. The music was its beating heart, turning every moment into something unforgettable. Even years later, you can still feel each note.
3. Dil Se
If you haven’t danced to “Chaiyya Chaiyya” like no one’s watching, are you even living? But it’s not all upbeat energy, Dil Se was filled with emotional gut punches. “Jiya Jale” has a beauty that still takes me back in time, and that’s just one of many tracks that blend intense passion with tenderness. Rahman’s ability to make us feel so deeply is unmatched and if you’ve listened to Dil Se and not felt anything, we need to talk.
4. Taal
Taal was a game-changer. Rahman fused traditional sounds with modern beats, and the result is a timeless soundtrack. Tracks like “Ishq Bina” make it impossible not to get lost in the music, while “Ramta Jogi” is pure energy that makes you want to dance. It’s a vibe that still holds up today.
5. Rang De Basanti
I was rewatching Rang De Basanti a few days ago and let’s be honest, this film is a rollercoaster of emotions no matter how many times you watch it. One minute you’re crying to “Luka Chuppi,” and the next, you’re shouting “Pathshala” and "Khalbali" at the top of your lungs. Then there’s “Roobaroo,” and man have I wished to experience friendship and love like this film.
6. Swades
Swades Is one of my favourite films of all time, and a film that will never make it out of that list. The moment that track starts, you’re filled with a deep, indescribable feeling, pick any song from the film. The film's idea about the feeling of belonging, and home, and Rahman's beautiful compositions make this one the best.
7. Slumdog Millionaire
When Rahman won two Oscars for Slumdog Millionaire, it felt like a victory for everyone. “Jai Ho” became a global anthem, but it was the hauntingly beautiful “Latika’s Theme” that gave the film its emotional depth. There are some films you keep going back to when you want that motivation and the feels and that film for me will always be Slumdog Millionaire.
8. Rockstar
There’s no other way to describe Rockstar but as a masterpiece. There might be people who call it a cult classic, and I've also met people who think it isn't a good film for various reasons but I've never met a single person who isn't a fan of its album. Tracks like “Sadda Haq”, “Tum Ho” and "Kun Faya Kun" make you feel things you haven't felt before. The album dives deep into love, pain, and self-discovery, and every track feels like a new emotional journey.
AR Rahman’s music for us is an experience and always will be. Whether it’s about love, loss, or revolution, his songs transport you to places beyond the ordinary. Today, as we celebrate AR's birthday, I couldn’t help but revisit the beautiful masterpieces the musician has given us. And to be honest, this list isn’t even half of how many of his albums I actually like. So, what’s your all-time favorite Rahman track?
Comment List