Mokokchung, 26th December (www.nokinketer.in): Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio and Oscar & Grammy Award winner Dr. A. R. Rahman today announced the establishment of the Naga International Studio by A. R. Rahman. The announcement was made at Touphema village in Kohima, Nagaland.

The Naga International Studio by A. R. Rahman, conceptualized by the legendary musician and filmmaker, will be located in Nagaland’s capital city, Kohima. The project envisages a world-class music production and creative facility, comprising state-of-the-art recording studios, a performance auditorium, and related support infrastructure. The studio is envisioned as a Centre of Excellence, providing international-standard facilities for music production, training, capacity building, and mentorship under the guidance of Dr. A. R. Rahman.

Once completed, the project is expected to significantly enhance Nagaland’s and India’s presence on the global music map. It is anticipated to have a positive impact on positioning Nagaland as a destination for music, culture, and tourism, while attracting national and international artists to the Northeastern region and giving a strong impetus to the creative economy.

The Naga International Studio is designed by Bluecube Architects and Mr. Riyasdeen Riyan, the son-in-law of Dr. A.R. Rahman. The project has been facilitated by the Task Force for Music & Arts (TAFMA) and the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) and is proposed to be funded through private corporate investment.

The Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio extended a warm welcome to Dr. A. R. Rahman to his native village and presented him with traditional gifts. Dr. Rio appreciated Dr. Rahman’s role and contributions in bringing this landmark project to Nagaland and acknowledged the affection and goodwill he has consistently shown towards the state and its people. He observed that while Dr. Rahman is a globally celebrated figure in high demand across the world, his decision to conceptualise such a milestone project in Nagaland reflects his genuine love for the Naga people and his commitment to nation-building in the country’s far-flung regions.

The Chief Minister assured Dr. Rahman of the State Government’s fullest cooperation and expressed gratitude for the various initiatives Dr. Rahman has undertaken in Nagaland on his personal initiative. These include mentoring the Nagaland Chapter of the Sunshine Orchestra at the Kohima Orphanage & Destitute Home, producing the documentary “Headhunting to Beatboxing” on Nagaland’s musical journey, and providing invaluable guidance to TAFMA in strengthening the music and creative arts ecosystem.

Dr. A. R. Rahman, in his address, expressed his appreciation to the Government of Nagaland and the Hon’ble Chief Minister for the priority and focus accorded to the music industry and the creative economy. He thanked the people of Nagaland – particularly the music fraternity – for the warmth, love, and affection extended to him over the years. He expressed hope that the Naga International Studio would serve as a platform for musicians and artists from Nagaland and across the country to create world-class music, while giving special emphasis to the region’s rich musical heritage, legacy, and talent.

Dr. A. R. Rahman first visited Nagaland in 2019 at the invitation of the Hon’ble Chief Minister as Chief Guest of the Hornbill Festival. Since then, he has worked closely with the State on multiple initiatives, including the participation of the Nagaland Chapter of the Sunshine Orchestra in his international concerts. He continues to mentor and guide Nagaland’s music fraternity with deep passion and commitment.

 (Source: TAFMA)