Renowned music composer AR Rahman has shared his struggles with suicidal thoughts in his early days, revealing that he contemplated ending his life almost daily until he was 25. In a recent interview, Rahman discussed his experiences, citing the loss of his father and feelings of inadequacy as contributing factors to his dark phase. He noted that this period, though challenging, ultimately helped him emerge stronger and more fearless.
Rahman's life took a significant turn when he built his recording studio, Panchathan Record Inn, in his backyard in Chennai. This marked a turning point in his career, allowing him to focus on his craft and eventually leading to his breakthrough in the film industry. Before this, Rahman had struggled to find success, having been offered 35 movie projects but only completing two. His perseverance and dedication to his art ultimately paid off, paving the way for his future success.
The composer, who has won numerous accolades, including Oscars and Grammys, has spoken about the importance of hope, perseverance, and positivity in his life. His biography, "Notes of a Dream: The Authorized Biography of AR Rahman," written by Krishna Trilok, offers a glimpse into his extraordinary success story, including his early days as a composer of advertisement jingles and his rise to international fame.
Rahman, who was just nine years old when his father passed away, took to music at a young age to support his family. He began working on music projects, eventually finishing most of his education between the ages of 12 and 22. This early start in music laid the foundation for his future success, and he has since become known for his innovative approach to music composition.
In his 20s, Rahman, along with his family, embraced Sufi Islam, which had a profound impact on his life and career. He also changed his name from Dileep Kumar, which he felt did not match his personality. This transformation marked a new chapter in his life, allowing him to reinvent himself and pursue his passion for music with renewed energy and purpose.
Rahman's creative process is characterized by intense self-analysis and a deep dive into his inner world. He believes that listening to one's inner voice is crucial to creating authentic music, and he often works during late nights or early mornings to tap into this creative space. This approach has allowed him to produce music that is both innovative and meaningful.
The biography, which is 360 pages long and available on Amazon, offers a comprehensive look at Rahman's life and career. The composer has expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to share his story, highlighting the importance of perseverance, positivity, and love in overcoming life's challenges.
Key points
- AR Rahman contemplated ending his life almost daily until he was 25 due to feelings of inadequacy and the loss of his father.
