The interview which appears below, was originally published on Guardian in August 2002. ©The rights to this material are reserved to the owner. If you have any concerns or comments, please send an email to info@rahmaniac.com.
A.R. Rahman was born in Madras in 1966, the son of composer R.K. Shekar. He spent five years composing advertising jingles, before going into films. At 24, he received his first National Award for Best Music Direction, on the film Roja.
He has since composed more than 50 Bollywood soundtracks, and in 2000 received the highest civilian honor of Padmashree from the president of India. He has sold nearly 200 million albums worldwide. His stage musical, Bombay Dreams, is now on in London. He is married with two daughters, and lives in Madras.
The Sufi way is to stay in a zone far off from happiness and sadness. I prefer that because it’s consistent.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Living 100 years.
What is your greatest fear?
People who achieve with patience.
Which living person do you most admire?
My Apple Powerbook, a counting machine and my mobile phone.
What objects do you always carry with you?
I’m getting used to the Gypsy life, hopping from country to country.
Where would you like to live?
Depression is a prelude to happiness. I get depressed to suit my musical moods.
What makes you depressed?
Leaving everything to the last moment.
What is your most unappealing habit?
‘Silence’.
What is your favourite word?
If we get the right partner, yes.
Do you believe in monogamy?
The creator.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
If I answer that, I’ll get into trouble.
Have you ever said ‘I love you’ and not meant it?
‘Sorry about that.’
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
I am yet to be in that state.
When and where were you happiest?
During my prayers.
How do you relax?
Spread subliminal messages of peace through music.
What would your motto be?
Making music, and feeling the pressure to deliver.
What keeps you awake at night?
Anything quick, painless and natural.
How would you like to die?
Yes, that’s my last hope.
Do you believe in life after death?
Life is a boomerang: you get back what you throw.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
