Khatija Rahman Makes International Debut As Film Composer With ‘Lioness’

CHENNAI, (IANS) – Music maestro A.R Rahman’s daughter Khatija Rahman is now set to make her international debut, as she will compose the soundtrack for the film ‘Lioness’, which is an India-UK co-production directed by filmmaker Kajri Babbar.

Making her debut as a film composer in the upcoming Tamil film ‘Minmini’ which is currently in the works, Khatija released her first single ‘Farishton’ in 2020, which was composed and produced by her Oscar-winning father.

She later featured on Grammy Award-winning composer and environmentalist Ricky Kej’s song ‘Iltaja’ and collaborated with Tamil rapper-playback singer Arivu on his track ‘Sagavaasi’.

‘Lioness’ is a drama film centered around the lives of two completely different women who lived 100 years away from each other, according to Variety.

Speaking to the outlet, Khatija said: “Thrilled and honored to be a part of ‘Lioness.’ I connected deeply with the film’s values from the moment I heard its compelling story and the reason behind bringing her story to life.”

A.R Rahman told Variety: “I’m always proud of her. She is herself. She’s not under the shadow of me or anything. She never played any song to me. And I didn’t even ask her. So, she released it (‘Sagavaasi’) and then people sent me the song. And it’s doing well now, it’s number six on the charts. I think we’re in for surprises, what she’s going to do”.

The upcoming singer-composer was noted for opting to wear the niqab on her own.

Talking about this, A.R Rahman said: “She has a very strong mind. And she’s a rebel. What she has done by wearing the niqab, standing for it and standing for all the people who wear the niqab as a statement – she got more attention than not wearing it.”

‘Lioness’ will commence production in the first quarter of 2024, with a global release planned for early 2025.