Nagaland CM Dr. Neiphiu Rio and A. R. Rahman Announce Naga International Studio in Kohima

The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, and Oscar and Grammy Award–winning composer Dr. A. R. Rahman have announced the establishment of the Naga International Studio, a global-scale music production and creative facility to be located in Kohima. The studio is being set up by A. R. Rahman and is envisioned as a space for music production, performance, and creative collaboration.

Conceptualised by Dr. A. R. Rahman, the Naga International Studio will include state-of-the-art recording facilities, a performance auditorium, and supporting creative infrastructure. The project aims to provide a structured environment for artistic creation and engagement, particularly for musicians and creative practitioners from the region.

Welcoming Dr. Rahman to his native village of Touphema in Kohima district, Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio thanked him for bringing a significant creative initiative to Nagaland. He noted that the project reflects Dr. Rahman’s affection for the Naga people and his commitment to nurturing creative talent in regions beyond India’s metropolitan centres. The Chief Minister assured full support from the State Government and said, “This is a meaningful step that reflects our shared commitment to nurturing creativity, innovation, and supporting creative talent. I wish this initiative growth, excellence, and impact.”

Dr. Rahman expressed his gratitude to the Government and people of Nagaland for their support. He 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. 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.”

Earlier, Dr. Rahman also launched the trailer of the documentary Headhunting to Beatboxing, directed by Rohit Gupta and produced by him. The documentary traces Nagaland’s musical evolution and its changing creative identity.

The Naga International Studio has been designed by Bluecube Architects and Riyasdeen Riyan. The initiative has been facilitated by the Task Force for Music & Arts (TAFMA) and the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN). The studio is expected to contribute to positioning Nagaland as a creative centre within the Northeast and beyond.