A.R. Rahman has announced the launch of Rooh-e-Noor, a new all-women ensemble under his KM Musiq audio label. Led by Khatija Rahman and project head Kannika Urs, the collective blends spiritual pop and contemporary influences, offering a fresh perspective within India’s evolving independent and devotional music scenes.
The group is set to make its world premiere on November 21 at the Tanweer Festival in Sharjah, where it will open for Rahman’s acclaimed Sufi group.
Rooh-e-Noor brings together six vocalists, Pooja Tiwari, Sana Aziz, Shaoni, Khatija Rahman, Amina Rafiq, and Shifa Ruby, each contributing distinct vocal identities and musical sensibilities. Several members also serve as vocal trainers and supervisors, supported by producers Sana Aziz, Sarthak Kalyani, and Nakul Abhyankar on music production.
The ensemble’s name translates to “Soul of Light,” reflecting its philosophy of exploring the spiritual and emotional depth of the female voice. The debut repertoire will include reimagined classics, film compositions, and original pieces rooted in themes of connection and healing.
Speaking about the initiative, A.R. Rahman said, “Rooh-e-Noor isn’t just a band — it’s a light that connects hearts. Each of these women carries the confidence of modern artistry. Their collective voice is pure, powerful, rooted, and forward-looking.”
Beyond its debut, Rooh-e-Noor is positioned as a platform to expand opportunities for women in music production and performance, areas that continue to face structural imbalance in India. By foregrounding women’s voices and leadership in both creative and technical roles, the ensemble aims to set a precedent for greater gender representation within the industry.
The launch of Rooh-e-Noor marks a significant step in Rahman’s ongoing efforts to build inclusive creative ecosystems through his projects under KM Musiq. Its debut performance in Sharjah is expected to serve as both an artistic showcase and a statement on the evolving role of women in South Asian music.
