Aditi Rao Hydari to debut as singer at London concert that celebrates A R Rahman’s 25 years in the industry
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 29, 2017)

Aditi Rao Hydari joins a slew of actresses who have taken to singing, except that her debut is planned not in a studio, but live before an audience. And the man behind the debut is Oscar-winning composer-singer, A R Rahman. Hydari got acquainted with Rahman while shooting for Mani Ratnam's Tamil film, Kaatru Veliyidai, and was encouraged by the musician to take the mic.

To celebrate completing 25 years in the industry, Rahman is organising Netru Indru Naalai, a grand show scheduled for July 8 at Wembley in London. Hydari will join the performer line-up, which features singers Benny Dayal, Hariharan, Jonita Gandhi, Neeti Mohan, Javed Ali and Ranjith Brothers.

"I couldn't have asked for a better singing debut. Singing for Rahman sir is an honour. I can't share what I'll be singing, but I hope everyone likes it,” says Hydari, who will leave for London at end of this month. The actress adds that she is a bundle of nerves. "I am nervous because I am not a trained singer. But I'm really excited. It's a dream come true."