AR Rahman: Music, Faith & Reinventing Sound

There are few names in Indian cinema that evoke as much reverence as AR Rahman. He isn’t just a composer; he is an emotion, a movement, a revolution in sound. His music is etched into the DNA of Indian cinema—transforming the way we listen, feel, and experience storytelling. But what many don’t know is that Rahman’s personal and spiritual journey is as layered as his compositions.

In a recent interview with O2 India, ace filmmaker-cinematographer Rajiv Menon—Rahman’s long-time friend and collaborator—shed light on the maestro’s transition from Dileep Kumar to AR Rahman, from a shy boy to a global icon, and from music to faith.

The Making of AR Rahman: A Journey Beyond Music

Long before Roja turned him into a household name, Rahman was just a young musician navigating the world of advertising jingles. Rajiv Menon recalls working with a “reserved, soft-spoken” Dilip Kumar (as Rahman was known then).

“He was a man of few words. Now, he writes long emails, gives deep interviews, and is incredibly articulate.”

Rajiv points out just how much Rahman has evolved—not just as a musician but as a person.

But there was one constant in his life—his mother, Kareema Begum.

Rahman’s deep attachment to his mother became the foundation of his creative pursuits. It was her influence and guidance that led him to establish KM Music Conservatory, a school dedicated to bringing Western classical music to India. Rahman has done more for Western music in India than anybody else. His institution isn’t about making money; it’s about creating a space where people can learn music.

Finding Faith in Chaos: The Spiritual Shift

With great success comes immense pressure, and Rahman was no stranger to the weight of expectations.

Rajiv recalls a time when Rahman was navigating personal turmoil—especially with family pressures surrounding his sisters’ marriages. In the midst of it all, something shifted.

“I saw Rahman gravitate towards faith. Fakirs from Gulbarga would visit his home, and since they didn’t know Hindi, I became the translator,” Rajiv shares.

It was during this phase that Rahman converted to Islam, embracing Sufism. His belief that God gave him struggles so he could turn them into music became a defining philosophy in his career.

“Music helped him cope. He believed his challenges gave him clarity,” Rajiv adds.

This shift in faith wasn’t just personal—it profoundly impacted his sound, rhythm, and artistic vision.

The Influence of Qawwali: How Sufi Music Shaped Bollywood’s Rahman

Rahman’s move towards Islam introduced him to Hindustani music, Qawwali, and Middle Eastern scales—elements that became deeply embedded in his compositions.

“Qawwalis have that energy—where you sing together and feel the power of God. That played a big role in his music,” explains Rajiv.

It’s no coincidence that Rahman’s most powerful Bollywood soundtracks—think Khwaja Mere Khwaja (Jodhaa Akbar), Piya Haji Ali (Fiza), Kun Faya Kun (Rockstar)—carry the essence of Sufi music.

His deep understanding of Hindustani ragas also helped him seamlessly transition into Bollywood.

“Carnatic music doesn’t translate as easily across India, but Hindustani music does. That’s why Rahman’s music went national,” says Rajiv.

From A Young Boy to A Global Icon

Today, AR Rahman isn’t just India’s pride—he’s a global phenomenon. With two Academy Awards, two Grammys, a Golden Globe, and multiple national awards, he has cemented his place in the history of world music.

But more than the accolades, it’s his approach to life and art that sets him apart. His journey—from a small keyboardist in Chennai to an internationally revered composer—is proof that music isn’t just sound. It’s faith. It’s resilience. It’s transformation.

“From being a young boy with a few keyboards to becoming an institution, Rahman is a reminder that great art comes from deep within,” concludes Rajiv.

And indeed, his melodies will continue to echo in the hearts of millions for generations to come.