Go sell ice cream, AR Rahman tells critics of Ramayana music
The composer responded to debates regarding the musical treatment of the Mangal Rang song from the upcoming Nitesh Tiwari film.
Music composer AR Rahman has responded to criticism regarding the sound of the song Mangal Rang from the upcoming film Ramayana: Rise of a Legend. According to a report by India Today, Rahman quoted Steve Jobs by saying, "If you want to satisfy everyone, go sell ice cream."
The song, which features Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal with lyrics by Kumar Vishwas, has faced debate over its musical arrangement. Some listeners questioned the use of qawwali influences for the wedding of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, while others felt the electronic treatment of the Ravana tandava lacked expected energy.
Rahman told Screen that he spends months with a tune before making a final decision and suggested that listeners should be patient. He compared certain compositions to pickle, stating that some music becomes better as it gets older.
The composer noted that people often focus on a single aspect rather than the entire picture. He also mentioned that the involvement of Hollywood composer Hans Zimmer could generate curiosity among new audiences.
The film is directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra. The cast includes Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Ravie Dubey as Lakshman, and Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman.
The first instalment is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on November 5, 2026, with a second part reportedly planned for 2027.