A Markham street is being named in honour of Allah-Rakha Rahman, the music composer best known for producing the soundtrack for the 2008 hit film, Slumdog Millionaire.
Also known as A.R. Rahman, his extensive body of work for film and stage earned him the nickname ‘the Mozart of Madras.’
A top music personality around the world for more than three decades, Rahman was included in Time Magazine’s list of the World’s 100 Most Influential People in 2009. The multiple Grammy and Academy Award winner has received various international humanitarian awards. He was awarded one of India’s highest civilian honours and composed India’s national song on the 50th Anniversary of India’s independence. The original track he composed also holds two Guinness World Records for being the song performed in the most languages. He has been awarded numerous honorary doctorates from world-renowned universities.
“As Canada’s most diverse city, the City of Markham is delighted to bestow this honour on an exceptionally talented and universally recognized entertainer,” says Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “A.R. Rahman has visited and performed in our region on several occasions and is beloved by many in our South Asian community.”
A.R. Rahman Street will be an east-west collector road located in the future Robinson Glen community northeast of Kennedy Road and Major Mackenzie Drive East. The name was previously approved by Markham Council to be included in the list of roads scheduled to be dedicated.
Markham held a street dedication ceremony in honour of Allah-Rakha Rahman at Markham Civic Centre on Saturday, Aug. 27. Photo courtesy of the City of Markham.
