AR Rahman Wins Second Oscar for Best Original Score in 'The Last Maharaja'

Indian music composer AR Rahman added another Academy Award to his collection on Sunday night, winning the Best Original Score Oscar for the historical drama 'The Last Maharaja'. The film, directed by Mira Nair and produced by a US-India co-production team, tells the story of India's last princely state and its peaceful integration into the Indian republic.

A Night to Remember

Rahman's score blends classical Hindustani ragas with a Western orchestral palette, creating what critics have called a "sonic tapestry that transcends cultural boundaries." The composer used a 90-piece orchestra recorded in Mumbai and London, combined with traditional Indian instruments including the santoor, sarangi, and bamboo flute.

This is Rahman's third Oscar nomination and second win, following his dual victories for 'Slumdog Millionaire' in 2009. In his acceptance speech, an emotional Rahman thanked his mother and dedicated the award to "every music student in India who dreams of creating something that speaks to the world."

"AR Rahman doesn't just compose music — he creates worlds. His score for 'The Last Maharaja' doesn't just accompany the film, it elevates it to something transcendent," Mira Nair told reporters backstage.

The win has been celebrated across India, with congratulatory messages from the Prime Minister, film industry figures, and fans worldwide. Rahman's team has announced a concert tour of 15 cities to celebrate the victory, with proceeds going to the KM Music Conservatory's scholarship fund for underprivileged music students.