AR Rahman Advocates For Healing Through Music After Divorce Announcement: 'Not Just Violence And Sex’
At the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), AR Rahman reflected on music’s role in healing, mental health, and spirituality, while addressing recent personal challenges, including his separation from wife Saira Banu.
At the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, AR Rahman, one of India’s most celebrated music composers, discussed the potential of musical theatre in India during a masterclass. Speaking about the profound impact of music on people’s lives, Rahman shared his thoughts on its therapeutic potential. He emphasized that music can serve as a means of healing, saying, “Now we all have mental health issues, depression. Because I think there is a void in all of us. That void can be filled by storytellers, by philosophy, by entertaining in a way where you don’t even know that you are taking medicine, by not just catering to your carnal needs like violence and sex and all that stuff. There’s much more than all that stuff."
Rahman also delved into mental health, recalling his struggles and how his mother’s advice helped him overcome suicidal thoughts. He shared a personal anecdote, saying, “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. When you live for others, and you’re not selfish, there’s a meaning to your life." Rahman went on to talk about the importance of hope and purpose, adding, “We have a limited knowledge about our future. There could be something extraordinary waiting for you."
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The conversation also touched on spirituality, with Rahman reflecting on the transient nature of life. “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."
In a separate development, AR Rahman and his wife, Saira Banu, recently announced their divorce after 29 years of marriage through a joint statement. “After many years of marriage, Mrs. Saira and her husband Mr. AR Rahman have made the difficult decision to separate from each other," the statement read, noting the emotional challenges that led to this decision. The couple emphasized their mutual respect and requested privacy during this challenging time.
On the same day, Rahman’s bass guitarist, Mohini Dey, also announced her divorce, sparking speculative rumors about a connection between the two events. However, both Rahman and Mohini categorically debunked these speculations, with Rahman threatening legal action against those spreading falsehoods.
Saira Banu also addressed the rumors in a voice note, clarifying that her separation from Rahman stemmed solely from health reasons. “That’s why I took a break from AR (Rahman). I would request the YouTubers, and Tamil media to not say anything bad against him," she stated. Praising Rahman, she added, “He is a gem of a person, the best man in the world. It is just my health issues that I had to leave Chennai. It wouldn’t have been possible with his busy schedule in Chennai."
Saira concluded with a heartfelt reassurance: “I trust him with my life. That’s how much I love him, and that’s how much he does too. I request you to stop false allegations. God bless, and my sincere prayers that we are left alone and given a space."
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