In a revealing interview with The Quint, renowned music composer A.R. Rahman opens up about his personal journey through faith, doubt, and overcoming bigotry. Rahman reflects on key moments in his career where self-doubt was a significant challenge, yet each experience proved transformative and rewarding.
Navigating Challenges with Faith and Humility
Rahman recounts feeling unprepared for major career milestones—from his first film to his Broadway debut and establishing the KM Conservatory. Despite initial doubts, these ventures turned out to be fulfilling, underscoring his resilience and commitment to his craft. He credits his wife for being a grounding force in his life, her love for his music and personality helping him stay connected to his roots even as he explored spirituality.
Discussing his work ethic, Rahman reveals that he often works through the night, starting at 2 am, especially when faced with tight deadlines. This unconventional routine reflects his dedication and the spontaneous nature of his creative process. He expresses a preference for collaborations that value his unique talents, which drives his passion for producing his own films and pushing creative boundaries.
Rahman also delves into the philosophical aspects of his work, emphasizing the need to subdue one’s ego to maintain humility in the creative process. He connects this back to the Sufi roots of music, where passion must be balanced with calm reflection. In the latter part of the interview, Rahman speaks candidly about the broader social responsibilities of artists, particularly the need to uphold truth and resist the corrupting influence of power. He warns of the risks of polarization and bigotry, advocating for purity and conscience in music and art as antidotes to societal ills.
