Celtic Connections and is an integral and vibrant part of cultural life in Glasgow, with the economic impact on the city reaching £5.8 million in 2007. The festival actively promotes artistic links and cultural exchange across countries, reinforced by Showcase Scotland which brought 200 music industry delegates from 35 different countries to Scotland looking to book Scottish bands for festivals abroad in 2008. The 2008 festival opened with the Common Ground concert where many of the artists taking part in the event performed together. Donald Shaw, artistic director of the festival, spoke about the future of Celtic Connections as well as the
Connections (album) United States and the UK. The Reissued Version contains additional 3 tracks, 'Jai Ho' from Slumdog Millionaire, 'Jai Ho! (You are my Destiny)' and 'Sajna' from Couples Retreat. In 2011, another 2 CD version was released. It included all 8 Nokia Edition tracks along with a compilation CD of 10 A.R.Rahman hits. "Connections is a very special compilation of songs done at various stages of my life. They all mean a lot to me and I hope the album will be enjoyed by all." Connections (album) Connections is a Compilation album and a Studio album produced by A. R. Rahman.