A R Rahman: The Music Mogul
A.R. Rahman, often referred to as the “Mozart of Madras,” married Saira Banu on March 12, 1995, in a traditional Islamic ceremony held in Chennai, Tamil Nadu that was deeply rooted in tradition. The couple complemented each other beautifully, with Saira providing steadfast support to Rahman as his career soared to global heights. Together, they built a close-knit family, raising their children in a nurturing environment that emphasized values, creativity, and faith.
Throughout their marriage, Rahman and Saira were admired for their quiet elegance and mutual respect. Their bond was often highlighted as an example of a successful partnership in the public eye, making the news of their separation all the more unexpected.
A.R. Rahman shared a deeply emotional message on his social media platform ‘X'( formerly Twitter ), reflecting on the end of their marriage. He expressed his sorrow over not being able to reach the “grand thirty” milestone in their relationship. Rahman described this chapter of their lives as a “shattering” experience, adding poetic notes about the weight of broken hearts and the search for meaning amidst the pain. His heartfelt words resonated with fans, drawing widespread support and empathy.
“We had hoped to reach the grand thirty, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end. Even the throne of God might tremble at the weight of broken hearts. Yet, in this shattering, we seek meaning, though the pieces may not find their place again. To our friends, thank you for…
— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) November 19, 2024
The couple’s three children have all inherited their father’s artistic sensibilities. Khatija Rahman, Rahman’s eldest daughter, is a talented singer who has followed in her father’s footsteps, while Raheema and Ameen have also expressed interest in creative pursuits.
Their daughters, Khatija and Raheema issued statements on their social media, “We would greatly appreciate it if this matter could be handled with the utmost privacy and respect. Thank you for your consideration.” AR Ameen also posted on his Instagram Stories, “We kindly ask everyone to respect our privacy during this time. Thank you for your understanding.”
A.R. Rahman began his musical career at the very young age of 11. He accompanied renowned musicians such as Zakir Hussain, Kunnakudi Vaidyanathan, and L. Shankar on world tours. His big break in the film industry came in 1992 when director Mani Ratnam invited him to compose the score and soundtrack for the movie *Roja*. This marked the beginning of his journey in Indian cinema and earned him his first National Award. Over the past 30 years.
Born as A.S. Dileep Kumar on January 6, 1967, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, he grew up in a musically inclined family. His father, R.K. Shekhar, was a composer and conductor for Tamil and Malayalam films, which exposed him to music from an early age. However, his father’s untimely death when Rahman was nine pushed the family into financial struggles.
Despite these challenges, Rahman pursued music passionately. He began working as a session musician in studios and played the keyboard for various bands. A turning point in his life came when he converted to Islam, adopting the name A.R. Rahman, a spiritual shift that deeply influenced his music and worldview.
Rahman’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. With multiple Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe, and countless other accolades to his name, he has become one of the most iconic and influential composers in the world. His work has transcended languages and borders, earning him a devoted fan base across the globe.
Over the years, he gained international fame, working on acclaimed projects like Slumdog Millionaire, which earned him two Academy Awards. Rahman’s ability to blend Indian classical music with global influences has made him a pioneer, inspiring millions worldwide.
While Rahman is celebrated for his music, he has also been vocal about his values and the importance of family. His personal life has often been a source of inspiration for fans who admire his humility and dedication to both his art and his loved ones.
As public figures, A.R. Rahman and Saira Banu have always maintained a certain level of privacy about their personal lives. Their decision to part ways, though surprising, has been met with an outpouring of respect and understanding from fans and the media. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of shock and extended support, with many praising the couple for handling the situation with grace.
Rahman has frequently acknowledged Saira’s unwavering support and grounding influence as essential to his success and the balance in his personal life. Despite the demands of his career, Rahman consistently highlights the significance of family, describing Saira as the cornerstone of their household.
As Rahman continues to create music that touches the hearts of millions, and Saira embarks on her own journey, the legacy of their 29-year partnership remains a testament to love, growth, and mutual respect.
