Armaan Malik Reacts To Ramayana Song Mangal Rang's Criticism: 'I Surrendered To AR Rahman's Vision'

Armaan Malik reacts to criticism of Ramayana song Mangal Rang's Sufi-inspired music, backs AR Rahman's vision and praises his collaboration with Hans Zimmer.

The Hindi wedding song Mangal Rang from Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana has drawn criticism on social media for its qawwali-style rhythms and Sufi-influenced arrangement. Now, singer Armaan Malik, who recorded the song's Kannada version, Managala Sangama, has addressed the debate. He maintained that he approached the recording with complete faith in AR Rahman's musical vision and did not allow online reactions to influence his work.

In an interview with PTI, Armaan also discussed the responsibility of singing for a story as revered as the Ramayana, his unexpected involvement in the project and his experience of collaborating with Rahman. The film, featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita, has a musical score composed by Rahman and Hans Zimmer.

Armaan Malik Reacts To Criticism Of Mangal Rang

Mangal Rang accompanies the wedding sequence featuring Rama and Sita. Its Hindi arrangement has attracted criticism from some listeners who questioned the use of qawwali-inspired beats and Sufi musical elements in the adaptation of the Hindu epic.

Armaan, who sang the Kannada rendition, explained that he trusted Rahman's decisions rather than focusing on the discussions surrounding the song.

"When collaborating with someone like Rahman sir, you just completely surrender to his musical vision. I went into the studio with absolute trust, rather than letting external opinions or internet debates weigh me down," he said.

The singer acknowledged that audiences might respond to music differently but maintained that the sincerity of the performance mattered most to him.

"You can never predict how the public will react, but you can control your own honesty and dedication to the art. The entire team poured their hearts into this, and I truly hope listeners feel that pure devotion in whichever language or version they choose to experience it in."

Armaan Malik Praises AR Rahman And Hans Zimmer's Ramayana Music

Armaan also praised the decision to bring Rahman and Zimmer together for the film's soundtrack. He acknowledged the expectations surrounding an epic like Ramayana and expressed confidence in the composers' ability to translate its emotions into music.

"However, I believe there is absolutely no better duo than AR Rahman sir and Hans Zimmer to capture the musical DNA of 'Ramayana'," he said.

He added, "They have given it the exact larger-than-life cinematic glory that a project of this scale truly deserves."

Although Armaan did not interact with Zimmer directly, he remained appreciative of the musical treatment given to the film.

Armaan Reveals How He Approached The Kannada Wedding Song

Speaking about recording Managala Sangama, Armaan explained that his priority was to convey Rama's composure, grace and devotion without turning the song into a display of vocal power.

"My entire focus was on internalising the ultimate grace, patience, and serenity that he represents. Instead of doing too much vocally, I consciously stripped everything back," he explained.

"Even when hitting the higher notes, the goal was never to sound overpowering, but to maintain a pure, grounded sense of peace. I wanted the devotion to feel completely authentic and free of any vocal pretense."

Interestingly, Armaan revealed that he had no idea the recording was intended for Ramayana when he first received the assignment.

"I received a last-minute call from Rahman Sir's team to record a Kannada track, and at that point, I had absolutely no idea it was for 'Ramayana'," he recalled.

"It was only during the recording session that I realised the magnitude of what I was singing for."

The singer also expressed his appreciation for Kannada-speaking audiences, who have supported his earlier songs, including Sariyaagi, Ondu Malebillu, Naa Hege Helali and Ninyaarele.

Armaan Malik Reunites With Nitesh Tiwari After Chillar Party

Ramayana also marks Armaan's reunion with director Nitesh Tiwari, with whom he previously worked on the 2011 family comedy Chillar Party.

"I've always deeply admired Nitesh sir's storytelling and the absolute care he takes in bringing complex emotions to life on screen. To reunite on this specific canvas is a huge milestone for me," he said.

Ramayana was released theatrically on November 5, 2026. The film also stars Yash, Ravi Dubey, Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, Sheeba Chaddha and Vivek Oberoi. Its second instalment is scheduled for Diwali 2028.