AR Rahman unveils teaser of documentary 'Headhunting to Beatboxing' at Cannes Film Festival

Mumbai, May 20: Renowned composer AR Rahman has revealed the first look and teaser of his latest project, a feature documentary titled 'Headhunting to Beatboxing', during an event at the Bharat Pavilion at the 77th Cannes Film Festival.

Directed by Rohit Gupta and produced by AR Rahman himself, 'Headhunting to Beatboxing' explores the fascinating journey of rhythm and sound, tracing the evolution of music across countries, tribes, and generations.

Speaking about the documentary, Rahman expressed, "Music possesses the transformative power to alter society, connect people, and give meaning to existence. 'Headhunting to Beatboxing' celebrates this universal rhythm that binds humanity through diverse expressions. We are eager to kickstart its film festival journey, and what better platform than Cannes, which celebrates cinema."

From the ancient customs of headhunting tribes to the contemporary musical renaissance in the state, the documentary promises to offer audiences an immersive and enlightening musical anthropological journey.

The launch event at the Bharat Pavilion in Cannes was graced by AR Rahman, director Rohit Gupta, Executive Producer Abu Metha (Advisor to the Chief Minister, Government of Nagaland), Executive Producer Theja Meru (Chairman TaFMA, Government of Nagaland), along with other esteemed guests and dignitaries.

Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Government of Nagaland, shared, "The seed of the idea was sown when AR Rahman visited Nagaland to participate in the legendary Hornbill Festival. We knew we had to be a part of it. The film is a collaborative effort of numerous creative minds, particularly TaFMA, and brilliantly captured by director Rohit Gupta. The true heroes are the musicians of Nagaland, whose stories date back to ancient times, and their music reflects the aspirations of our youth."

Director Rohit Gupta added, "Five years in the making, the journey of this film has been a metamorphosis for me. The vibrant and diverse music today, transcending the wounds of the past, truly astonished me during the filmmaking process. I am excited for audiences to witness our hard work and experience the magic of Nagaland's music."

This documentary marks Rahman's second major venture into filmmaking as a producer, following his earlier production '99 Songs'. The executive producers include Abu Metha, Adam J. Greig, Theja Meru, Rohit Gupta, Sheila Houlahan, and Rohhit Daas.