Oct 28, 2026 3:08pm IST
Armaan Malik On ‘Surreal’ Experience Of Working On ‘Mangala Sangama’ For ‘Ramayana’: ‘With AR Rahman Sir, His Trust Is The Biggest Compliment’ (EXCLUSIVE)
With “Mangala Sangama,” Armaan Malik steps into the cinematic world of “Ramayana,” alongside Bela Shende. It is the Kannada version of “Mangal Rang,” originally sung by Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal in Hindi. Malik is no stranger to Kannada, with over 50 film songs to his name in the language. The only other languages he’s had more of an output in is Hindi and Telugu.
Speaking to Variety India exclusively about his song in “Ramayana” and what it means to be part of an AR Rahman & Hans Zimmer soundtrack, he also holds forth on what it means for “Dhurandhar: The Revenge” to be eligible for consideration for Grammy submissions in several categories.
What has been the highlight of your film music journey so far in Kannada?
It is honestly so overwhelming in the best way possible. Singing in Namma Kannada has always felt like home to me. The biggest highlight is not just the chart numbers, but the pure, unfiltered love the audience gives me. They truly treat me like their own. Songs like “Ondu Malebillu” and now, “Mangala Sangama” have given me a family there. Building that deep emotional connection with listeners who embrace my voice so warmly is the true highlight of my journey in the language.
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“Ramayana” is a Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman OST. What does being part of a soundtrack like this mean to you?
It is completely surreal. Rahman sir and Hans Zimmer are absolute legends who have shaped the way we experience cinema globally. Being a part of a soundtrack where our Indian classical roots meet that massive global cinematic symphony is a dream come true.
What was AR Rahman’s reaction to your rendition?
Since I had to record this in Mumbai right before leaving for an international trip, we did not get to be in the studio together this time. But with Rahman sir, his trust is the biggest compliment. The fact that he let me take the reins on a song for a project like this means the absolute world to me. I also really have to credit the Kannada lyric team and the dub crews who guided me during that session. They made sure I delivered every single word with complete authenticity and the utmost respect for the language.
Your thoughts on ‘Dhurandhar 2’’s chances after submitting their entries for consideration at the Grammys?
I think “Dhurandhar 2” is a solid soundtrack and definitely one of the best this year! More broadly, I am just so proud to see how many entries we have submitted at the Grammys this year across the board in both our film and independent music scenes. It is absolutely about time the world wakes up and lauds the sheer musicality and talent we have here in India!
What are your thoughts on the overdependence of AI in music?
I think AI can be an interesting tool for brainstorming, but the overdependence on it is definitely concerning to me. Music is fundamentally about human connection. It is about the slight crack in a voice when a singer is emotional, the breath you take before a big note, and the vulnerability of the artist. AI cannot replicate a human soul or the years of ‘sabr’ and practice it takes to build your craft. We need that raw human element now more than ever to feel truly connected to what we are listening to.
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