Ram Gopal Varma has shared candid memories about the creation of his 1995 film Rangeela’s iconic soundtrack, revealing the frustrations he experienced while working with composer AR Rahman.
The director recently discussed Rahman’s unconventional work habits during an interview, describing how the composition of “Hai Rama” tested his patience. According to Varma, the duo traveled to Goa specifically for the song’s creation, but the five-day trip yielded unexpected delays. Each day brought new excuses rather than progress, with Rahman admitting he’d spent the entire time watching television instead of composing.
Varma admitted his exasperation reached a breaking point, though he stopped short of acting on his frustration. The wait ultimately proved worthwhile when Rahman finally delivered the composition, leading Varma to acknowledge that exceptional artistry sometimes requires patience.
The director’s initial reaction to “Hai Rama” was far from enthusiastic. Seeking something sensual in the vein of “Kaate Nahi Katte” from Mr India, Varma was bewildered when Rahman presented what sounded like classical Carnatic music. He questioned whether Rahman had sent the wrong track entirely.
Rahman stood by his creative vision, insisting the composition suited the intended scene perfectly. Though skeptical at first, Varma found the melody growing on him with repeated listening until it became impossible to shake from his mind.
Despite its rocky creation, Rangeela’s soundtrack became a massive success, helping establish both Varma and Rahman as major forces in Indian cinema. The film starred Jackie Shroff, Aamir Khan, and Urmila Matondkar, and arrived before Varma’s later acclaimed works like Satya and Company.
