A.R. Rahman’s First Attari Border Performance Honors Bravehearts

Mumbai- Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali and Academy Award-winning composer A.R. Rahman paid tribute to India’s armed forces personnel during a special musical event at the Attari Border on June 7.

The event, titled ‘Jai Ho – A Musical Salute to the Bravehearts’, was held during the Beating Retreat Ceremony at the Joint Check Post (JCP) Stadium and marked Rahman’s first-ever live performance at the Attari Border. Thousands gathered to celebrate patriotism, sacrifice and national pride.

Speaking at the event, Imtiaz said, “This performance is an ode to the national spirit, to our bravehearts on the border, the BSF and the Indian Army, and to the spirit of solidarity and love that binds us all.”

The filmmaker also reflected on his upcoming film, ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’, which is set against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition of India and explores themes of love, separation and humanity.

“I am privileged to be a part of this troupe, and it is magical that this event is around ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’, a film inspired by the creation of the border during the Partition of 1947. Not only homes and lives were lost, but hearts were broken as well. We bring a message of love because, ultimately, only love sustains us,” Imtiaz said.

The film is inspired by personal stories of separation, longing and relationships affected by the Partition, one of the largest migrations in the history of the Indian subcontinent.

The musical evening featured Rahman’s performance along with songs from ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’. The event concluded with Rahman’s iconic patriotic anthem ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’.

Starring Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari Wagh and Vedang Raina, ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ features music by A.R. Rahman and lyrics by Irshad Kamil. The film is set for a worldwide theatrical release on June 12, 2026. (IANS)