In a candid Netflix conversation with Imtiaz Ali, Mohit Chauhan, and Irshad Kamil, AR Rahman took a stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about his journey from humble beginnings to global acclaim. The celebrated musician, known for his recent work in Imtiaz Ali’s “Amar Singh Chamkila,” shared poignant anecdotes about his early days, including his decision to forego college, his childhood immersion in music, and the challenges he faced in establishing his studio.
Reflecting on his formative years, Rahman expressed how not attending college led him to immerse himself in music from a young age, forging connections across generations and exploring diverse musical genres. He recounted, “At 12, I found myself conversing with individuals much older than me. My curiosity drove me to explore different musical realms, sparking a deep fascination for the unknown.”
Recalling the inception of his studio, Rahman revealed the financial struggles he encountered, narrating how his mother’s sacrifice, selling her jewelry to buy his first recorder, became a pivotal moment in his career. “When I set up my studio, I lacked the means to afford basic equipment like an amplifier or equalizer. It was a bare-bones setup with just an AC, a shelf, and some carpeting. I built it from scratch, but it felt incomplete until my mother’s gesture empowered me. Her sacrifice gave me the confidence to envision my future in music,” he shared.
Despite his humble beginnings, Rahman’s talent and determination have propelled him to international acclaim, with projects like “Raayan,” “Thug Life,” and “Lahore 1947” on the horizon, showcasing his enduring creativity and passion for music.