A. R. Rahman Begins 40-Day Digital Detox Amid Controversy and Ramayana Music Prep

By Shantishwarup Tripathi

For the past few days, Oscar-winning composer and singer A. R. Rahman has been constantly in the headlines. In January 2026, he not only grabbed attention but also found himself at the center of controversy when, during an interview with BBC Asia, he spoke about changes in people’s perceptions in Bollywood and how that had affected the kind of work coming his way. His remarks upset a section of people, and soon social media saw calls to boycott the upcoming film Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, for which Rahman is composing the music.

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Later, Rahman clarified his stance and the issue subsided. However, he is currently facing allegations of copying a composition by the Dagar Brothers, a matter that has reached the Supreme Court. On February 12, the Supreme Court reportedly observed strong remarks in the case, with a final verdict expected on February 20. Even before the final decision, Rahman surprised many by announcing a 40-day “digital detox” — a complete withdrawal from the technological world. Those who understand the mind of an artist are not viewing this merely as news, but as a form of “satyagraha” — a personal stand to protect his inner soul.

A Spiritual Retreat, Not a Vacation

Rahman’s decision does not mean he is taking a leisurely holiday. The roots of this choice lie in his spiritual beliefs and his hunger for deeper creative expression. The holy month of Ramadan, which began on February 19, marks a period of self-purification for him.

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For a seeker, fasting is not merely abstaining from food but exercising control over the senses. In today’s world, the internet has become our sixth sense. Rahman seems to have realized that amidst the constant noise of digital notifications, the “unstruck cosmic sound” — the anhad naad — can easily be lost. His 40-day isolation is, in essence, a mental pilgrimage.

The Ramayana Connection

Rahman’s digital detox is also being linked to Ramayana. Composing music for such a monumental epic is like climbing the Himalayas for any composer. “Ramayana” is not just a story; it is the cultural and spiritual root of India.

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To translate the dignity and divinity of Valmiki’s epic into music, Rahman may feel the need to detach himself from the noise of the modern world. Reports suggest that a grand event may take place on Ram Navami, where Rahman will present his compositions. Before that “trial by fire,” he seems determined to empty himself — to return to zero.

An artist understands that unless the mind is calm from within, one cannot create “cosmic music” that resonates across generations.

A Mirror to Society

Rahman’s move raises an important question for society. We live in a time where success is measured by social media engagement — by Instagram followers and Spotify streams. But can any creative mind produce timeless art under the constant pressure of likes and trends?

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Human roots lie in the soil, not in the sky. By announcing his digital detox, Rahman has chosen to return to his roots. He has demonstrated that technology can be a tool of creation, but never its source. The source always lies within.

Psychologists say that constant digital connectivity diminishes our capacity for deep thinking. When Rahman sets aside his phone for 40 days, he is reclaiming his focus. Music is a form of spiritual discipline, and discipline does not tolerate distraction.

Searching for the Void

Think of the song from Rockstar — “When nothing existed anywhere, that alone existed…” Now, in his personal life, Rahman seems to be searching for that very “void.” He is in pursuit of music that flows not from market demands but from the soul’s sorrow and joy.

This 40-day digital detox should not be taken lightly. It carries deeper meanings. It reminds us that we may not be masters of technology but its slaves. Perhaps when Rahman returns after 40 days, he will not only bring the melodies of “Ramayana” but also a rejuvenated spirit.

Rahman’s digital detox stands as a new manifesto for Indian art and life — a reminder that sometimes stepping back is the prerequisite for the longest leap forward.

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