Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), met with music legend Dr A R Rahman on Friday in Chennai.
According to DIPR, during their meeting, Metha and Dr Rahman discussed various roadmaps and strategies for the development of the music industry in Nagaland and the northeastern region. They focused on ongoing projects, programs, and potential future collaborations with Dr Rahman and his institutions.
Metha conveyed the appreciation of the State Government and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to AR Rahman, who is actively involved in various music promotion and mentorship programs in Nagaland. Following his visit to Nagaland in 2019 as the Chief Guest of the Hornbill Festival, Dr Rahman initiated a program to mentor musicians from the Kohima Orphanage & Destitute Home, bringing them under his renowned Sunshine Orchestra.
He continues to mentor members of the Sunshine Orchestra from Nagaland, and earlier this year, he took the children to Chennai to perform at an international concert in collaboration with the British Council.
Candidates selected for the Chief Minister’s Music Scholarship undergo a customized professional course at the KM College of Music & Technology, which is one of Asia’s most renowned music institutions with an esteemed international faculty.
Dr Rahman is also engaged in mentoring and producing audio-video promotional productions that promote Nagaland and its musicians. Abu Metha expressed appreciation for Rahman’s voluntary contributions to the music industry in Nagaland, emphasizing that his concern and contributions have positively impacted numerous lives and symbolize a gesture towards nation-building.
Dr AR Rahman, a recipient of the Oscar and Grammy Awards, is known for his mentorship in several international projects and partnerships with countries and institutions worldwide. He led the music and entertainment of the World Expo in Dubai and established his trademark studio there. Additionally, he is a film producer and leads various music and film studios.
Theja Meru, Dr A R Rahman and Abu Metha (PC: @abumetha/Twitter)
Metha was accompanied by Theja Meru, Chairman of TAFMA. Before their meeting with the Academy Award winner, the two officials visited the KM College of Music & Technology in Chennai.
During their visit to the KM College of Music & Technology, Abu Metha interacted with the faculty and management, gathering feedback on the Chief Minister’s Music Scholarship program. They also explored prospects for future collaborations and partnerships. The Nagaland officials toured the facilities and gained firsthand experience of the programs undertaken by students from Nagaland.
