CHENNAI – In a recent interview, acclaimed Indian composer A.R. Rahman opened up about the personal cost of fame, revealing the impact it has had on his family life. Rahman, known globally for his musical scores in films like "Slumdog Millionaire" and "Roja," shared that the constant attention and lack of privacy have taken a toll, affecting his ability to spend quality time with his loved ones.
Rahman, who was born as Dileep Kumar Rajagopala in Madras, converted to Islam in his 20s. He married Saira Banu in 1995, and they have three children: Khatija, Rahima, and Ameen. In 2024, Rahman and Saira Banu separated after 29 years of marriage.
The composer described how even simple activities like eating out become challenging due to fans constantly seeking photographs and attention. "That's what actually took a toll on my family life when no one allows you to eat," Rahman stated, highlighting the difficulties in maintaining a normal family life amidst his celebrity status. He added that attending weddings also becomes difficult, as guests are more interested in taking pictures with him than allowing him to enjoy the event.
Rahman also expressed the difficulty in coordinating time with his family, noting that his children have their own lives and schedules, making it hard to get everyone together. "Even to spend time with family, I have to make sure that I pull them on to dinner or something where also not everyone is free, they all have their own lives now," he said.
Comparing the behavior of international artists to that of Indian actors, Rahman observed that Western celebrities are often more assertive in setting boundaries. He noted that many Hollywood actors and rockstars will directly refuse requests for photographs or personal interactions, a practice he finds less common among Indian celebrities. "[W]henever I have worked with rockstars abroad, they, just with a straight face, say, 'I don't do that, sorry'," Rahman explained. He attributed this difference to cultural factors, suggesting that Indian actors tend to be more accommodating.
Rahman also touched upon the difficulty of maintaining friendships, citing a lack of time to cultivate and nurture those relationships. His comments provide a glimpse into the sacrifices and challenges that come with immense fame, impacting not only his personal life but also his relationships with family and friends.
Despite the challenges, Rahman remains dedicated to his craft and continues to create music that resonates with millions worldwide. He began his career as a session musician and gained widespread recognition in 1992 after scoring Mani Ratnam's film "Roja". The soundtrack earned him a National Film Award for Best Music Direction. Over the years, Rahman has received numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, two Grammy Awards, and a Golden Globe Award. In 2010, the Indian government awarded him the Padma Bhushan, one of the country's highest civilian honors.
Rahman's reflections offer a candid look at the less glamorous side of fame, highlighting the importance of privacy and personal time, especially for those in the public eye.
