Indian music maestro A.R. Rahman has officially endorsed U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris in her presidential campaign for the upcoming elections, marking a significant moment as he becomes the first major international artist from South Asia to do so. In a bid to amplify her visibility and support, Rahman recorded a 30-minute performance video that is expected to provide a substantial boost to Harris’s campaign ahead of the November 5 elections.
The performance, which showcases some of Rahman’s most beloved songs, is interspersed with messages that highlight Harris’s historic candidacy as she aims to become the first Black woman and the first woman overall to serve as President of the United States. The Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Victory Fund, which focuses on mobilizing voters from these communities, announced that Rahman’s performance will be broadcast on their YouTube channel on October 13 at 8 PM ET, along with airing on major South Asian networks like AVS and TV Asia.
Shekar Narasimhan, chairperson of the AAPI Victory Fund, stated that Rahman’s involvement adds a powerful voice to the ongoing call for progress and representation in America. He emphasized that this initiative is more than just a musical event; it serves as a rallying cry for communities to engage and vote for their desired future. The endorsement underscores the vital role of Asian American and Pacific Islander voters in this election cycle, reflecting the growing momentum behind the Harris-Walz ticket.
The release of a teaser video featuring Rahman alongside M.R. Rangaswami, founder of Indiaspora, has generated excitement leading up to the performance. This strategic push aims to galvanize support for Kamala Harris among South Asian voters worldwide, showcasing her commitment to addressing issues that resonate within these communities.
Rahman’s endorsement is particularly significant given his stature as a globally renowned composer and musician. His involvement is expected to resonate deeply with both Indian and South Asian voters in the United States, potentially influencing their turnout in favor of Harris.
As the election approaches, Rahman’s performance is poised to play a crucial role in mobilizing support for Kamala Harris, emphasizing the importance of representation and community engagement in shaping America’s political landscape.