"A listener interprets the music."
Singer Armaan Malik has responded to the debate around the song ‘Mangal Rang’ from Ramayana.
The track from the Ranbir Kapoor starrer became a subject of discussion on social media.
Several listeners questioned its musical treatment and shared their views online.
They argued that the composition carries Sufi qawwali influences, which they felt were misplaced in a film based on the Hindu epic.
Others compared the song to AR Rahman’s earlier tracks, such as ‘Kun Faya Kun’ from Rockstar.
‘Mangal Rang’ depicts the wedding of Lord Rama and Sita in the film.
The Hindi version of the song is sung by Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal.
Armaan Malik has lent his voice to the Kannada version, titled ‘Mangala Sangama’.
He sang the track alongside Bela Shende for the Kannada release of the film.
In a recent interaction, Armaan spoke about the criticism surrounding the song.
He said that the interpretation of music is always subjective for every listener.
“The entire music team was completely united in one single goal – ensure the sonic experience reflected the pure love and divinity portrayed onscreen by Ranbir and Sai Pallavi.
“How a listener interprets the music is always going to be subjective and that’s the nature of art.
“But as an artist, my only focus was the deep devotion of the moment and ensuring we delivered that with the utmost respect.”
Armaan has long hoped to lend his voice to a song featuring Ranbir Kapoor.
In previous interviews, he had spoken about wanting to sing for actors such as Ranbir and Shah Rukh Khan.
With ‘Mangala Sangama’, one of those dreams has finally come true for him.
Talking about it, he said: “It’s a huge personal milestone.
“We all grow up watching certain icons define cinematic romance and emotion, and Ranbir has undoubtedly been that figure for my generation.
“What makes this even more special is the journey behind it.”
Ramayana is directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra.
Ranbir Kapoor stars in the film as Lord Rama, while Sai Pallavi portrays Sita.
Yash plays the role of Ravana in the film. Ravi Dubey plays Lakshman, and Sunny Deol appears as Hanuman.
The film’s music brings together AR Rahman and Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer.
It is scheduled to release in cinemas worldwide on November 5, 2026.
It is also breaking box office records ahead of its theatrical release.
Its advance booking opened on Dussehra, a full 15 days before the global release.
Now, just two days ahead of its release, the film has crossed the 100 crore mark in worldwide pre-sales.
