Muscat – Oman’s music scene has witnessed a remarkable milestone with the collaboration of Omani singer Jihad al Raisi in the much-talked about Indian film Aadujeevitham – The Goat Life released in March. 

Working alongside Bollywood legend music director A R Rahman, Raisi’s rendition of the Arabic track Antal Hadi has got the ears of the Indian film industry.

Raisi’s involvement in the project started almost three years ago when he received a call from Hamad al Riyami, film director and critic from the UAE. “Riyami offered me a chance to collaborate with A R Rahman, one of the greatest music directors in the world and my personal favourite.”

Raisi eagerly recorded his audition and sent it, following which he received confirmation from Rahman’s assistant Dilshaad Shabbir Kumar and embarked on an awe-inspiring collaboration. 

Describing his experience of working with Rahman, Raisi said, “It’s a dream come true. I never imagined I’d have the opportunity to work on such a monumental project with a legend like Rahman. However, I did not get a chance to meet him in person.”

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Raisi persisted, recording the song twice in Oman as requested by the assistant director. 

While Raisi eagerly awaits the release of the film in Oman, feedback from friends who have seen it in Dubai has been overwhelmingly positive. “The response has been great and seeing my name in the credits is truly gratifying,” he said.

Antal Hadi marks Raisi’s debut in the world of cinema, the first of many he hopes will follow. Looking ahead, he is excited to share information about his next project, a Punjabi song which he will make available on his social media accounts. 

Aadujeevitham – The Goat Life is based on the real-life account of an Indian migrant worker, Najeeb Muhammad, who went to Saudi Arabia to earn a living. In a twist of fate, he found himself living a slave-like existence, herding goats in the middle of a desert. Directed by Blessy and based on a book  written by Benyamin, the film stars Prithviraj Sukumaran and Omani actor Talib al Balushi.