Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman, who recently announced his separation from wife Saira Banu, made a notable appearance at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. During a masterclass at the event, Rahman shared his thoughts on the profound impact of music on people's lives and how it can serve as a tool for emotional healing and mental well-being.
Rahman spoke about the power of music to go beyond mere entertainment, addressing deeper human needs such as mental health. "We all have mental health issues, depression. I think there is a void in all of us. That void can be filled by storytellers, by philosophy, by entertainment that heals without you even realising it," Rahman explained. He emphasized that music can offer more than just temporary satisfaction of physical desires like violence and sex.
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Personal struggles and mental health journey
The renowned composer also opened up about his personal journey, revealing his struggles with mental health in his younger years. Rahman shared his experiences with suicidal thoughts and how he eventually found solace through music, offering a message of hope to those facing similar challenges.
During the masterclass, Rahman also shared his personal mental health journey, discussing his struggles with suicidal thoughts in his younger years. He said, “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 said that he took it very seriously, “Whether you’re composing for somebody, writing for something, buying food for a person who can’t afford it, or just smiling at someone, these are the things that keep us going. Also, we have 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.”
Rahman also added, “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."
Earlier this month, Rahman and Saira announced their separation after 29 years of marriage, citing emotional strain. Despite the separation, many continue to hold out hope for a possible reconciliation in the future. The couple, who have three children together, asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Published: 29 Nov 2024, 12:17 pm IST
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