KOHIMA: It was a proud moment for the Nagas at 77th Cannes Film Festival as the Bharat Pavilion became the stage for the unveiling of feature documentary titled, Headhunting to Beatboxing.
Academy Award-winning composer AR Rahman unveiled the first look and teaser of his latest venture, which will showcase the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland on an international platform.
Joining Rahman at the teaser launch was director of the documentary Rohit Gupta, along with executive producers Abu Metha, advisor to the chief minister of Nagaland, and Theja Meru, chairman of TaFMA, along with esteemed guests and dignitaries.
Headhunting to Beatboxing delves into the captivating journey of rhythm and sound, exploring the evolution of music across cultures, tribes, and generations.
From the ancient traditions of headhunting tribes to the vibrant musical renaissance in Nagaland, the documentary promises to offer audiences an immersive and enlightening musical anthropological odyssey.
Reflecting on the project, Rahman expressed his excitement, stating that music has a transformative power to change society and to connect humanity in its diverse expressions. He further added that Headhunting to Beatboxing is a celebration of this universal rhythm that unites humanity.
“We are thrilled to kickstart its film festival journey at Cannes, the epitome of cinema celebration,” he told the press.
Metha, offering insights into the film’s inception, said that the genesis of the idea emerged during Rahman’s visit to Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival.
“We were inspired to showcase Nagaland’s musical heritage to the world. The film is a collaborative effort, masterfully captured by director Rohit Gupta, and celebrates the ambition of Nagaland’s youth,” he told the press.
Director Gupta shared his journey of crafting the documentary, revealing that the documentary took five years in the making.
“Witnessing the vibrant music scene in Nagaland, despite the scars of the past, has been truly inspiring. I am eager for audiences to experience the magic captured in the music of Nagaland,” he added.
Headhunting to Beatboxing marks Rahman’s second major venture into filmmaking as a producer, following his earlier production 99 Songs, which premiered at the Busan International Film Festival.
