Music composer A.R. Rahman on Sunday unveiled the first look and teaser of a feature documentary “Headhunting to Beatboxing, A Musical Renaissance” at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in France — an offering that “exemplifies the energy, ambition and newfound confidence of Naga youth”.

An official statement released by the Nagaland government’s publicity department said Rahman unveiled the film along with the advisor to chief minister and chairman Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha and chairman of Task Force for Music & Arts, Theja Meru.

Directed by Rohit Gupta and produced by Rahman, the documentary delves into the intriguing journey of rhythm and sound, charting music’s growth through generations in Nagaland.

“From the ancient traditions of headhunting tribes to the musical renaissance in the state, the documentary promises to take audiences on an immersive and enlightening musical anthropological odyssey,” the statement said.

While talking about the feature documentary, Rahman said: “Music has this transformative power to change society and to connect and bring relevance to existence. ‘Headhunting to Beatboxing’ is a celebration of this universal rhythm that unites humanity in its diverse expressions. We look forward to the start of its film festival journey and what better than Cannes which celebrates cinema to make the first announcement on the film.” The documentary, which has been in the making for five years, is now in post-production.

Abu Metha, also one of the executive producers of the documentary, said it is a “story about Naga musicians” — a story that goes back millennia and at the same time “exemplifies the energy, ambition and the newfound confidence of Naga youth”.

“Another significant milestone! .… The real heroes of the film are the musicians of Nagaland. It’s so inspiring that our youth are starting to write new narratives and telling fantastic stories of our land and people to the global community through their talents. It’s a priceless opportunity for our young musicians to be mentored and guided by a Grammy, and Golden Globe winner (AR Rahman),” Metha said in a post on X while thanking Rahman, Rio for his “vision and for always supporting the musicians and artists”.

Metha said: “The germ of the idea came up when AR Rahman visited Nagaland to be part of the legendary Hornbill Festival. We knew we had to be part of it. The film is a collaboration of many creative minds, especially the TaFMA and masterfully captured by director Rohit Gupta....”

He further said the documentary will help “globalise” the state’s music scenario, push Brand Nagaland and Naga soft power, and most importantly “generate interest and opportunities for our musicians and artists”.

The Nagaland government has been promoting the state’s music and musicians for several years now both within and outside the state. Music is a key attraction at the annual Hornbill Festival, which showcases Naga culture and music. Leading bands from India and abroad and local talents have been performing at the festival for years now.