Acclaimed music composer A.R. Rahman, celebrated globally for his Oscar-winning scores, has candidly shared the profound financial difficulties that marked his early life. Despite his current status as one of the industry's most respected and wealthiest figures, his path to success was paved with significant hardship.
The Formative Years: Financial Hardship That Built Character
In a past interview, Rahman revealed that he endured serious money troubles alongside his mother and sisters. These challenging experiences left a deep and lasting impression on him, fundamentally shaping his character and outlook. "I went through so much financial trouble along with my mom and sisters, but those lessons, the burden that I shared with my mom, made me who I am today," Rahman stated. He emphasized that even now, those early struggles inform his decision-making, keeping him grounded.
The maestro also expressed a clear philosophy about wealth and legacy, born from those tough times. He remarked, "One thing I was very clear about; whatever money I leave for anyone, it'll disappear in a day if they are not smart enough and don't understand the legacy." This insight drives his approach to preparing the next generation.
A Parenting Philosophy of Radical Transparency
Rahman applies these life lessons directly to his parenting style. He believes in complete honesty with his children, never shielding them from life's realities. "So I really want my children to be aware of everything going on; I don't believe in hiding any bad news or problems from them," he explained.
This transparency extends to practical financial matters. Rahman involves his children in discussions about loans and responsibilities, such as informing them about a mortgage payment for a building. He clarified that this practice is "not to torture them, but only to make them learn" about real-world obligations from a young age.
On Nepotism, Legacy, and the Future of His Studio
The conversation naturally turned to the topic of nepotism, especially regarding his children potentially entering the music industry. Rahman views it more through the lens of legacy and care. "When it comes to them following me into music and charting their respective paths, well, people nowadays have learnt this new term… nepotism," he noted, hinting at the complexity of the debate.
He spoke emotionally about the studio he built with immense passion, expressing hope that his children will eventually take over. "I have built all this stuff, this entire world; if my kids aren't into it, this entire place is going to become a godown!" Rahman said. He described how every element, from the walls to the chairs, was chosen with care, and he dreams of them continuing his life's work.
Upcoming Project: 'Gandhi Talks'
On the professional front, A.R. Rahman is currently composing the music for the upcoming film 'Gandhi Talks'. The movie stars Vijay Sethupathi, Arvind Swamy, and Aditi Rao Hydari and is scheduled for release on January 30.
Sharing an update about the film, Rahman wrote on social media, "They loved in silence. They sinned in silence. They suffered in silence. This film speaks of that silence." He further promoted it as "A silent promise. A loud arrival - the year's most intriguing cinematic experience."
