Roja, Bombay and more: When AR Rahman, Mani Ratnam created magic on the big screen

AR Rahman, one of India¡¯s finest music composers, posted a long and emotional note on X (formerly known as Twitter), on November 19 to inform fans that he has decided to part ways with his wife Saira Banu. The maestro, who married Saira nearly three decades ago, said that the decision brought the relationship to an ¡®unseen¡¯ end and thanked his well-wishers for respecting his privacy.

¡°We had hoped to reach the grand thirty, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end. Even the throne of God might tremble at the weight of broken hearts. Yet, in this shattering, we seek meaning, though the pieces may not find their place again. To our friends, thank you for¡­

¡ª A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) November 19, 2024

AR Rahman, who has been an integral part of the film industry for nearly three decades, began his career with Roja (1992). The Tamil drama marked his first collaboration with Mani Ratnam and established the future ¡®Mozart of Madras¡¯ as a force to reckon with. AR Rahman subsequently collaborated with the ace filmmaker on a regular basis and became an integral part of his films. Here is a look at a few terrific movies that made ARR and Mani Ratnam as a terrific combination

Roja (Tamil, 1992)

Roja was a hard-hitting yet emotional drama that highlighted the devastating impact of terrorism on human relationships. It featured earnest performances from Arvind Swami and Madhoo, which helped the audience connect with the narrative. The soundtrack featured chartbusters such as the heart wrenching Kaadhal Rojave and the innocent Chinna Chinna Asai.

Bombay ( Tamil, 1995)

Bombay, starring Arvind Swami and Manisha Koirala, was an emotionally-gripping romantic drama that centred on the events that take place when two people from different backgrounds fall in love despite facing opposition from their respective families. The film featured several passionate romantic scenes and a gripping climax, set against the backdrop of the Bombay Riots. AR Rahman hit the right notes with compositions such as Uyire and Hamma Hamma, which upped the recall value of the reel romance.

Dil Se (Hindi, 1998)

AR Rahman wooed the Hindi audience with his work in Dil Se, the third and final installment of Mani Ratnam¡¯s ¡®Terrorism Trilogy¡¯ . The film centred around the events that transpire when an AIR executive falls for a charming woman only to learn a dark secret about her. The film featured songs such as Chaiyya Chaiyya and Ae Ajnabi, which became a rage among the audience and went on to attain cult status.

Guru (Hindi, 2007)

Guru was an inspiring and engaging drama that revolved around a self-made industrialist who finds success despite facing opposition from all corners. The film featured Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai as the lead pair and proved to be a gamechanger for them. AR Rahman¡¯s music was the backbone of the film. Tere Bina, a soulful romantic number, added a touch of tenderness to the reel romance. Similarly, the foot-tapping Mayya Mayya was a treat for those fond of racy dance numbers.

OK Kanmani (Tamil, 2015)

The Dulquer Salmaan-led romantic drama explored contemporary issues such as friendship and live-in relationships. AR Rahman¡¯s songs did complete justice to the film¡¯s urban setting and became quite popular. Mental Manadhil, in particular, proved to be a favourite because of the refreshing musical arrangement.

Interestingly, its lyrics were penned by Rahman himself.

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