What helped AR Rahman brave the storm when he faced ‘immense pressure’? Director Rajiv Menon answers

Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and director-cinematographer Rajiv Menon share a deep-rooted bond that spans many years. Their collaboration started lengthy earlier than Rahman’s rise to fame with Roja, courting again to his early days as a younger musician when he was referred to as Dileep Kumar (earlier than he embraced Islam). Reflecting on their journey, Rajiv recalled working with him in commercials and witnessing firsthand the immense strain Rahman confronted in his private {and professional} life. By all of it, music remained his solace, shaping his path towards greatness.

One of many defining moments in Rahman’s life was his non secular transformation. Rajiv revealed that he performed an sudden position throughout this transition, serving as a translator when fakirs from Gulbarga visited Rahman’s house to information his household to embrace Islam. He noticed Rahman’s deepening religion firsthand, in addition to the struggles he endured, significantly concerning his sisters’ marriages. Music helped him “courageous the storm” providing him power throughout these difficult instances.

Rajiv additionally mirrored on Rahman’s evolution from a reserved and shy particular person to a assured international icon. Previously, Rahman was identified for being a person of few phrases, however right this moment, he actively engages with the world—writing detailed emails, giving interviews, and eloquently expressing himself.

About AR Rahman

Allah Rakha Rahman (ARR) is an acclaimed Indian composer, singer, and musician identified for his work in Tamil, Hindi, and worldwide cinema. He has received two Academy Awards, two Grammys, a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, and 6 National Film Awards. With quite a few Filmfare honours, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2010 for his contributions to music.

AR Rahman started his film-scoring profession with Roja within the early Nineties, adopted by hits like Bombay, Kadhalan, and Gentleman. His Hollywood debut, {Couples} Retreat, received a BMI Award. Slumdog Millionaire earned him two Academy Awards and two Grammys. Often known as “Isai Puyal” and the “Mozart of Madras,” Rahman stays a world musical icon.

Talking of his private life, in November 2024, A.R. Rahman and Saira Banu introduced their separation. In the meantime, the singer has just lately grabbed the highlight due to his well being. In line with Ameen, in an replace on his Instagram story, he shared that his father felt a “bit weak” on account of dehydration and therefore the household went forward and carried out some routine exams. The musician is doing nicely and has been discharged.