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AR Rahman: Top ten Bollywood albums

A REMARKABLE career has seen AR Rahman become the most successful music director of the modern era, delivering an eclectic array of songs that have delighted audiences globally, including his stunning Oscarwinning soundtrack for Slumdog Millionaire.

This week the musical maestro will be celebrating his 51st birthday. To mark him turning a year older, Eastern Eye decided to create an ultimate playlist by finding his 10 best Bollywood soundtracks...


Roja (1992): Although the stunning musical debut was originally recorded in Tamil, it was also released in Hindi. This not only turned the musician into an overnight star, but also started his incredible partnership with director Mani Ratnam that has continued until today.

Bombay (1995): The now legendary soundtrack introduced AR Rahman to audiences around the world. Like Roja, this too was recorded in Tamil and then a Hindi version was released. The blockbuster songs helped turn the powerful film into a hit and perhaps features the greatest instrumental in Indian cinematic history.

Rangeela (1995): The first full-blown Hindi soundtrack from the musical maestro continued introducing his unique sound to Bollywood, and audiences fell in love with it. The songs, which capture a number of moods and emotions, included a passion-filled instrumental.

Dil Se (1998): The blockbuster soundtrack helped a movie that under-performed in India become an international smash. The songs include the now legendary Chaiyya Chaiyya, which turned singer Sukhwinder Singh into a star and inspired Andrew Lloyd Webber to create hit West End musical Bombay Dreams.

Taal (1999): The soundtrack smashed all records when it released and helped turn what was an ordinary film into a massive global success. The big musical numbers include Ishq Bina and the stunning Taal Se Taal.

Lagaan (2001): The superb songs played a large part in helping the Oscar nominated historical become a huge success. The multi-award winning soundtrack was ranked as one of the greatest world music albums of all-time and many of the songs became anthems.

Saathiya (2002): A remake of Tamil film Alaipayuthey had an award-winning collection of songs that had the unique signature of Rahman. The mostly romantic tracks effortlessly glide through different moods and emotions. The best-selling soundtrack helped turn the movie into a cult classic.

Rang De Basanti (2006): The award-winning soundtrack has an impressive variety of songs that range from the haunting Ik Onkar to the powerful title track. He assembled impressive singers for mostly passion-filled songs.

Guru (2007): The musician always creates magic with his mentor Mani Ratnam and did that again with these amazing songs. The marvellous numbers include incredible rain song Barso Re, sexy item number Mayya and the romantic Tere Bina.

JodhaaAkbar (2008): The musical genius showed a lot of artistry in this soundtrack. Everything from the background score to the superb songs bordered on perfection. The tracks include Sufi-inspired Khwaja Mere Khwaja, which the deeply spiritual maestro sang himself.

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10 must-see Coachella 2025 performances this closing weekend

The desert heat isn’t the only thing that’s sizzling at Coachella this weekend. As the second weekend of the iconic festival unfolds, the buzz is real, and the line-up is stacked with legendary headliners, surprise guests, and rising stars. Whether you’re lucky enough to be in Indio or watching from the comfort of your home, here’s a list of 10 performances you absolutely don’t want to miss.


1.Post Malone – Sunday, April 20 at 10:00 PM PT (Main Stage)

Post Malone is closing out Coachella with a performance that brings together rock, rap, and everything in between. Expect surprises, unexpected guest stars, and a finale that will have you talking long after the music stops.


2.Megan Thee Stallion – Sunday, April 20 (Main Stage)

Megan’s energy is just electric, right? With an arsenal of empowering bangers and a stage presence that truly commands attention, she’ll be lighting up the Main Stage with an unforgettable performance.


3.Lisa (BLACKPINK) – Saturday, April 19 (Sahara Stage)

Lisa is bringing her solo magic to Coachella, and it’s going to be pure fire. Get ready for flawless choreography, high-octane visuals, and a setlist that will have everyone on their feet.


4.Missy Elliott – Saturday, April 19 (Main Stage)

Missy Elliott is a living legend, and her performance will certainly reflect that. Expect a thrilling mix of nostalgic hits and futuristic visuals that will have you grooving.



5.Charli XCX – Saturday, April 19 (Main Stage)

If you’re in the mood for a wild, experimental ride, Charli XCX is the one to see. She’ll bring all the boundary-pushing pop energy you could ever want, and it’s going to be a party like no other.


6.ENHYPEN – Saturday, April 19 (Sahara Stage)

The K-pop juggernaut ENHYPEN is making their Coachella debut, and it’s going to be huge. Expect jaw-dropping choreography and a burst of energy that’s impossible to ignore.


7.Arca – Sunday, April 20 (Gobi Stage)

For those who like to push the boundaries of music, Arca is the perfect pick. Her avant-garde approach to sound will take you on an experimental journey that’s as much performance art as it is music.


8.Zedd – Sunday, April 20 (Outdoor Theatre)

Get ready to dance non-stop as Zedd takes you on an electrifying EDM journey. With beats that make your body move and visuals that will leave you in awe, Zedd’s set is guaranteed to light up the night.


9.Gorgon City – Sunday, April 20 (Quasar Stage)

Deep house lovers, this one’s for you. Gorgon City is bringing those smooth, pulsating beats to the Quasar Stage, creating the perfect vibe to groove through the night.


10.Goldenvoice Surf Club – April 19–20 (Palm Springs Surf Club)

Need a breather from the desert chaos? Head to the Goldenvoice Surf Club for a chill escape. With DJ sets, surf competitions, and wellness activities, it’s the perfect place to chill, all while enjoying artists like Rico Nasty and Sara Landry.


Surprise moments to watch out for
Keep an eye out for surprise collaborations! Rumours are swirling about possible surprise guests like Troye Sivan joining Charli XCX or even Brian May from Queen showing up with Benson Boone. Coachella has a way of keeping us on our toes!


How to experience Coachella from home
Can’t make it out to the desert? Don’t worry, you can still soak in the magic and experience the whole vibe by tuning into Coachella’s live stream on their official YouTube channel. Experience the festival vibes from wherever you are!


Why Coachella 2025 will be legendary
Coachella 2025 is an entire cultural moment, a mix of world-class performances and pure energy. From K-pop sensations to EDM icons, this weekend will be full of unforgettable moments. These 10 performances are the ones you don’t want to miss. Catch you in the desert; virtually or IRL!

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