In a surprising revelation, director and film writer Ram Gopal Varma has shed light on the true origins of the hit song ‘Jai Ho’, which garnered widespread acclaim as the main score of the film Slumdog Millionaire and earned composer A.R. Rahman two Academy Awards.
Unveiling the Truth
During an interview with Film Companion, Ram Gopal Varma recounted an incident involving director Subhash Ghai, which brought to light the real composer behind ‘Jai Ho’. Ghai, in his pursuit of a suitable song for his film ‘Yuvvraaj’, expressed dissatisfaction with ‘Jai Ho’ as a potential fit for the project, starring actors Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif.
Varma revealed that A.R. Rahman enlisted the help of Sukhwinder Singh to craft the tune for ‘Jai Ho’, as Ghai was eager for the song’s prompt delivery. However, when ‘Yuvvraaj’ did not materialize, Rahman repurposed ‘Jai Ho’ for Slumdog Millionaire.
Iconic Exchange
Upon learning of this sequence of events, Subhash Ghai confronted A.R. Rahman, questioning why he had involved Sukhwinder Singh in the composition process when Rahman himself was being handsomely compensated. Rahman’s response, as described by Varma, was nothing short of iconic. Rahman asserted that he was being paid for his name and brand value, implying that any creation under his name would inherently be considered an A.R. Rahman musical. He challenged Ghai’s ability to discern the true composer, humorously suggesting that even his driver could have contributed to the composition.
Musical Accolades
Despite the revelation, ‘Jai Ho’ remains a pinnacle of musical success, earning Rahman prestigious awards such as the Golden Globe, Grammy, and BAFTA, in addition to the Academy Awards. The song’s recognition has propelled Rahman’s career to unparalleled heights, solidifying his status as a musical maestro on the global stage.
Reflections on the Industry
This revelation prompts reflection on the dynamics of fame and recognition in the film industry. The acknowledgment of authentic talent and genuine hard work often takes a backseat to considerations such as celebrity status and brand value. The disclosure underscores the complexities of attribution and recognition in an industry where big names wield significant influence.
Ram Gopal Varma’s revelation adds an intriguing layer to the legacy of ‘Jai Ho’, shedding light on the intricacies of musical creation and the nuances of fame in the world of cinema.
