Indian 2: The Music Director Swap Explained. The much-awaited sequel to the iconic film “Indian,” aptly titled “Indian 2,” is all set to hit screens on July 12, 2024. Fans of Kamal Haasan and director Shankar have been eagerly anticipating this second instalment in the franchise, which promises action, drama, and political intrigue.
However, one major change has left cinephiles buzzing: the replacement of original composer AR Rahman with Anirudh Ravichander as the music director for “Indian 2.” Let’s delve into the reasons behind this creative decision.
The Legacy of AR Rahman’s Music in “Indian”
Released in 1996, “Indian” (also known as “Hindustani”) featured an iconic soundtrack composed by the legendary AR Rahman. The film’s music, including five unique songs and the memorable Indian theme, became an integral part of Tamil cinema history. Rahman’s ability to blend traditional Indian melodies with contemporary sounds elevated the film’s impact.
Why the Change?
At the recent Indian 2 press meet in Chennai, director Shankar shed light on the decision to replace Rahman. According to the veteran filmmaker, Anirudh Ravichander stepped in because Rahman was occupied with the background score work for their previous blockbuster, “2.0.” The timing didn’t align for Rahman to take on Indian 2, which led to the search for an alternative music director.
Anirudh Ravichander: A Rising Star
Anirudh Ravichander, a talented young musician, was roped in to compose songs and original scores for Indian 2. His fresh approach and contemporary sensibilities appealed to the team. While some cine-goers expressed disappointment over the change, Anirudh’s work has sparked debate among Tamil music lovers.
The Delayed Sequel
Despite the initial plan, Indian 2 faced delays and only began production in 2020. The intricate coordination required for a big-budget film like this contributed to the timeline shift. Anirudh’s involvement ensured that the music remained a focal point, even as the film’s release date shifted.
Revisiting “Indian” on OTT Platforms
Indian 2: The Music Director Swap Explained. For those nostalgic about AR Rahman’s original score in “Indian,” several OTT platforms offer a chance to revisit the classic. Aha Tamil, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and OTTplay Premium host the film, allowing viewers to relive the magic of Kamal Haasan’s iconic character Senapathy.