AR Rahman recalls how ‘magic happened’ while composing Kun Faaya Kun for Ranbir Kapoor’s Rockstar: ‘It was born out of a jam session’

AR Rahman recently opened up about the creation of one of his most celebrated compositions, Kun Faaya Kun from Imtiaz Ali’s 2011 film Rockstar starring Ranbir Kapoor. In an interview with Mashable India, the Oscar-winning composer revealed that the song wasn’t planned in the traditional sense but emerged spontaneously during a musical jam session.
The iconic track was born out of a jam session
“We were making something else. I was sitting with Madhushree and Javed Ali with a harmonium and we were mixing something and even recording it. We were jamming. I was playing, Javed and Madhushree were singing. At one point it all got culminated and magic happened,” Rahman recalled.
The composer further revealed that the original recording was nearly 12 to 13 minutes long. “Afterwards I went back to the 12-13 minute long recording and grabbed portions from it. I said this is the tune we have. So Kun Faaya was taken from that entire jam session,” he added.
Rockstar soundtrack remains one of Rahman’s finest
Released 15 years ago, Rockstar’s soundtrack remains etched in public memory, with Kun Faaya Kun holding a special place. The spiritual Sufi composition not only moved listeners into a trance but also reportedly had a profound effect on actor Ranbir Kapoor while filming the scene at the revered Nizamuddin Dargah.
The film’s music went on to win multiple awards and is still considered a high point in Rahman’s illustrious career.
Imtiaz Ali and AR Rahman’s enduring musical bond
Rahman also spoke about his creative chemistry with director Imtiaz Ali, with whom he has collaborated on several films including Tamasha, Highway, and the upcoming Amar Singh Chamkila. He praised Ali for his sensitivity to lyrics and music.

“Imtiaz has a good ear for lyrics and tunes,” Rahman said, adding that their working relationship is fairly fluid. “Once we sign on a movie, I keep sending him tunes — whichever one I think could be good for his film. And then he lives with it. Sometimes he’ll say he’s found his tune, sometimes he’ll throw it out,” he shared with a smile.

With Kun Faaya Kun continuing to evoke emotion and admiration years after its release, Rahman’s anecdote is a testament to the power of spontaneous creation and the unique magic that emerges when artists are in sync, both with each other and with the moment.