AR Rahman's All-Women Ensemble 'Rooh-e-Noor' to Debut at Tanweer Festival

In a significant development for India's cultural landscape, acclaimed composer AR Rahman has announced the formation of Rooh-e-Noor, a new all-women ensemble that will make its world premiere on November 21 at the Tanweer Festival in Sharjah. The group, led by Khatija Rahman and project head Kannika Urs, introduces a unique blend of spiritual pop and contemporary influences to the Indian music scene.

Rooh-e-Noor features six talented vocalists, including Pooja Tiwari, Sana Aziz, Shaoni, Khatija Rahman, Amina Rafiq, and Shifa Ruby, each bringing their distinct artistry to the collective. The ensemble is further supported by Sana Aziz, Sarthak Kalyani, and Nakul Abhyankar in music production roles.

The group's name, Rooh-e-Noor, translates to "Soul of Light," and their philosophy centers around the transformative ability of women's voices to heal and inspire. Their debut performance promises to present a genre-shifting experience, with a repertoire that includes reimagined classics, film compositions, and spiritual pieces arranged to evoke emotion and connection.

AR Rahman has expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "Rooh-e-Noor isn't just a band, it's a light that connects hearts. Each of these women carries the confidence of modern artistry. Their collective voice is pure, powerful, rooted, and futuristic." The ensemble's mission extends beyond their premiere, as they aspire to serve as a platform for women artists, offering visibility and opportunities in a field where female representation has traditionally been limited.