Academy Award-winning composer AR Rahman is expanding his vision beyond film soundtracks and global concerts with the launch of a brand new music production and creative facility in Kohima, Nagaland. The celebrated singer-composer recently joined hands with Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio to formally announce the establishment of the Naga International Studio, a project that promises to place the state firmly on the cultural map of the country.
A Landmark Collaboration in the Hills
According to the official release, the studio will feature a dedicated auditorium for performances, state-of-the-art recording facilities and a wide range of creative infrastructure aimed at nurturing young talent. The idea is not just to build a studio but to create an ecosystem that allows music production, collaboration and experimentation to thrive.
During the announcement, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio welcomed Rahman to his native village of Touphema and spoke warmly about the significance of the project. He thanked the composer for choosing Nagaland for such a major initiative and described the move as a reflection of Rahman’s affection for the people of the state. The Chief Minister added that the Naga International Studio represents a shared commitment towards encouraging creativity and innovation in regions that often lie outside the mainstream spotlight.
“This is a meaningful step that reflects our shared commitment to nurturing creativity, innovation, and supporting creative talent. I wish this initiative growth, excellence, and impact,” the CM stated, while also assuring Rahman of complete support from the state government.
From Headhunting to Beatboxing and Beyond
Rahman, in turn, expressed his gratitude to the Nagaland government and its people for the warmth with which the project has been embraced. Speaking about the cultural richness of the region, he said, “Nagaland has a rare musical soul which is honest, original, and deeply rooted in its culture. The Naga International Studio is envisioned as a space where this heritage can meet world class creativity, allowing young artists from the region to collaborate, experiment, and create music that resonates not just nationally, but globally. I am grateful to Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, the Government of Nagaland and TAFMA for their vision and support in making this dream possible.”
Alongside the studio announcement, Rahman also unveiled the trailer of Headhunting to Beatboxing, a documentary he has produced, directed by Rohit Gupta. The film explores Nagaland’s evolving creative identity and its musical resurgence, tracing how traditional roots are blending with modern sounds to create something distinctively new.
The documentary is expected to shine a light on local musicians, cultural traditions and the changing face of music in the region, further underlining Rahman’s larger mission to bring stories from the Northeast to a global audience.
The Naga International Studio is being positioned as more than just a facility. It is intended to serve as a creative hub that draws artists, producers and collaborators from across India and abroad. By offering professional grade infrastructure in Kohima, the project aims to reduce the need for young musicians to migrate to metros in search of opportunity.
For Nagaland, a state long known for its vibrant music culture but limited access to industry level platforms, this initiative could be transformative. With Rahman’s global reputation and the backing of the state government, the studio is expected to generate new opportunities, encourage skill development and spotlight regional talent on national and international stages.
At a time when conversations around inclusivity and decentralisation are gaining momentum in the Indian creative industries, the Naga International Studio stands out as a meaningful step forward. It not only acknowledges the immense potential of the Northeast but also provides the tools to help that potential flourish.
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