‘Lydian, You Should Be India's Musical Ambassador'

Oscar winner AR Rahman and Lydian Nadhaswaram, winner of The World’s Best, face off in an exclusive freewheeling interaction

- Srinivasa Ramanujam

“Put on that red garland... it’ll look nice in the pictures,” AR Rahman tells a shy Lydian Nadhaswaram. “Okay uncle,” says the 13-year-old, as he adjusts his shirt for the shutterbugs.

Media attention is new to Lydian. A few months ago, he was content with playing the piano at home, along with his father and sister. Today, he’s won international acclaim.

Lydian battled it out against several talents from more than 180 countries in the TV show The World’s Best and emerged winner, pocketing a cool $1 million as prize money. Back in Chennai, Lydian is very much at home at KM Music Conservatory, which has contributed tremendously to his musical journey.

MetroPlus requests AR Rahman to turn interviewer and put the child prodigy in the hot seat. Excerpts:

ARR: Lydian, hey buddy. Congratulations on winning The World’s Best. How are you feeling?

Lydian: Really happy to have won it. I’m even happier that you’re talking to me.

ARR: So, do you remember the first time we met?