As artificial intelligence rapidly becomes an inescapable part of modern life, opinions remain divided—some see it as a tool of great convenience, while others fear it signals a quiet technological takeover. Amid this debate, legendary Indian composer AR Rahman has introduced a groundbreaking AI-driven initiative titled Secret Mountain. The project aims to blend technology with creativity to forge a new path in musical storytelling.
Recently, Rahman met with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to discuss the future of Secret Mountain and ways to empower Indian creators through AI. Sharing a photo from their meeting, Rahman wrote, “It was a pleasure to meet @sama at his office … we discussed ‘Secret Mountain’, our virtual global band, and to empower and uplift Indian minds to use AI tools to address generational challenges and lead the way forward.”
Secret Mountain was officially announced by Rahman on February 14, 2024, through a teaser video titled Introducing the Secret Mountain. The project centers around Luna, a young woman who escapes the chaos of modern life and finds herself in a magical realm filled with musical beings from various cultures. Each character brings a distinct sound, celebrating diversity and artistic expression through AI-powered collaboration.
Despite embracing AI, Rahman emphasizes that it serves as an enhancement—not a replacement—for human creativity. As stated on his official website, “AI can be a starting point, but the human element, the emotional depth and creativity, remains irreplaceable.” His vision positions Secret Mountain as a unique global experiment where culture, technology, and imagination meet in harmony.
