Renowned music composer AR Rahman got candid about his spiritual beliefs and shared his thoughts on mental health awareness. At a recent event, where he addressed Oxford Union debating society students, he was asked questions about his personal life as well as his musical career.
According to India Today, he expressed, "When I had suicidal thoughts when I was young, my mother used to say, ‘When you live for others, you won’t get these thoughts’. That’s one of the most beautiful advice I got from my mother."
The Oscar-winner shared a close relationship with his mother Kareema Beegum, who passed away in 2020. He went ahead and further elaborated upon why it’s important to live your life for others.
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“When you live for others, and you’re not selfish, there’s a meaning to your life. I took it very seriously, whether you’re composing for somebody, writing for something, buying food for a person who can’t afford it, or you just smile at someone, these are the things that keep us going. Also, we have a limited knowledge about our future. There could be something extraordinary waiting for you. If you have all these things, and hope, that’s what keeps me going. Sometimes, I feel like I’ve done it all, that I’m in a repetitive cycle, and then you realise there’s a bigger role for you,” he explained.
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A student in the audience extended his thanks to the music composer for shedding light on their dark times. When asked upon why he doesn’t share his spiritual thoughts more, Rahman said, “We all have dark times. One thing is definite; it’s a small little travel in this world. We were born, and we’re going to go. It’s not a permanent place for us. Where we’re going to go, we don’t know. (It depends) on each person’s own imagination and beliefs.”
He also emphasized that he has been inspired by others in his life and is always ready to learn more about them and their journey. He truly believes in his ability to give to the society, not only through music, but also as an advocator.
