A.R. Rahman receiving the award / Facebook/ A.R. Rahman
Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman was honored with the prestigious Golden Plate Award by the American Academy of Achievement, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to the global music industry.
Rahman received the award from acclaimed filmmaker Peter Jackson during the Academy's 56th International Achievement Summit at the historic Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C.
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The Golden Plate Award is among the Academy's highest honors, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and leadership in their fields.
Accepting the award, Rahman said he was "truly humbled" by the recognition and dedicated the honor to the people and collaborators who shaped his career.
"I am truly humbled to receive this honor. It wouldn't have been possible without the people of India, the inspiration I've drawn from the country, the directors and creative partners I've had the privilege of working with, and the fans who have supported me throughout the years and inspired me to keep pushing myself," Rahman said.
He added: "This recognition is deeply meaningful to me. It's not just an honor, it's also a reminder to strive for more and keep growing. I'm humbled and proud to represent India in this way."
According to the American Academy of Achievement, Rahman was recognized for redefining contemporary Indian music and expanding its global reach through a career spanning more than three decades. The Academy noted that he has collaborated with international artists including Mick Jagger, U2, and Andrew Lloyd Webber, and composed music for more than 175 films.
Rahman made his film debut with the 1992 Tamil film Roja, earning India's National Film Award for Best Music Direction. He achieved worldwide recognition with his score for Slumdog Millionaire, which won him two Academy Awards, including Best Original Score, as well as Grammy, Golden Globe, and BAFTA awards.
Often referred to as the "Mozart of Madras," Rahman has been credited with blending Indian classical traditions with contemporary global sounds while helping bring Indian music to international audiences. The Academy also highlighted his philanthropic work, including efforts to provide music education to underprivileged children.
With the recognition, Rahman joins a distinguished list of Golden Plate recipients that includes Maya Angelou, Francis Ford Coppola, Julie Andrews, Haruki Murakami, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Michael J. Fox, Samuel L. Jackson, and Andre Agassi. He is also the first Indian musician to receive the honor.
Founded in 1961, the American Academy of Achievement brings together distinguished leaders from the arts, science, public service, business, literature, sports, and entertainment. Each year, about 25 honorees are selected by the Academy's Awards Council to receive the Golden Plate Award at its International Achievement Summit.
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