Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and music maestro AR Rahman on Friday announced plans to establish the ‘Naga International Studio,’ a state-of-the-art music and creative facility in Kohima.
Conceptualised by Rahman, the studio will feature state-of-the-art recording facilities, a performance auditorium, and a full spectrum of creative infrastructure.
In a social media post, CM Rio said the studio will act as a centre for talent development, storytelling, and the production of music and creative content inspired by Nagaland’s cultural heritage.
He expressed gratitude to Rahman for recognising the state’s creative potential and for choosing to invest in it.
Rio highlighted that the Naga International Studio will combine traditional Naga music, narratives, and indigenous art forms with modern production techniques, aiming to preserve cultural identity while reaching international audiences.
Expressing his gratitude, Rahman said, “Nagaland has a rare musical soul which is honest, original, and deeply rooted in its culture. The Naga International Studio is envisioned as a space where this heritage can meet world-class creativity, allowing young artists from the region to collaborate, experiment, and create music that resonates not just nationally, but globally.”
He stated, “I am grateful to Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, the Government of Nagaland, and TAFMA for their vision and support in making this dream possible.”
During the announcement, Rahman also launched the trailer for the documentary ‘Headhunting to Beatboxing’, directed by Rohit Gupta and produced by Rahman himself. The documentary explores Nagaland’s musical renaissance and its evolving creative identity.
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Naga International Studio has been designed by Bluecube Architects and Riyasdeen Riyan, with facilitation from the Task Force for Music and Arts (TAFMA) and the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN).
