UK university confers Doctorate on A R Rahman

Oscar-winning music maestro A R Rahman has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate by a leading UK University for his outstanding contributions, a week after Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan was honoured by another prestigious British varsity.

The Vice Chancellor of the Middlesex University in Hendon in London, Professor Michael Driscoll presented the Honorary Degree on Rahman.

Rahman, who won two Academy Awards for the music of hit film "Slumdog Millionaire", also signed a Memorandum of Understanding between his K M Music Conservatory in Chennai and the University.

After receiving the honour, Rahman said "It is an enormous honour to belong to this great seat of learning."

"My journey as a musician started at the age of nine and I see music as a way to connect to spirituality and embrace it. Music touches people and breaks down barriers, creating harmony in troubled times. This has always been my philosophy," Rahman said.

A spokeswoman of the Middlesex University said today that the MoU focused on educational collaboration between India and the UK. The two organisations have agreed to explore the possibilities for collaboration in music and education and to support one of Rahman's 'pet projects', that of the blending of Asian and Western musical styles.

Terry Butland, Deputy vice-Chancellor (International) at Middlesex University commented on the MOU, saying "I can't think of a more suitable and well placed partner for the University than A R Rahman."

"We are delighted to sign this Memorandum of Understanding which paves the way for what will undoubtedly be some interesting and innovative projects delivered jointly between Middlesex University and the K M Music Conservatory," Butland said.

Rahman explained the background to the MOU: "We looked at lots of universities but felt Middlesex had the right, friendly vibe as well as great history."

Asked what he considered to be his biggest achievement, Rahman said it is in film music. "As a human being I have so many interests. The Academy Awards (for Slumdog Millionaire) opened doors worldwide and legitimised Indian musicians," he said.

Shahrukh Khan was last week conferred the honorary Doctorate in Arts and Culture by the Bedfordshire University for his "exceptional achievement" in the field of entertainment and media at a glittering investiture ceremony.