AR Rahman Opens Up About Struggles with Suicide Thoughts, Announces Separation from Wife After 29 Years of Marriage

Mumbai:Oscar-winning Indian composer A.R. Rahman recently revealed that during his youth, he struggled with thoughts of suicide. Speaking at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, Rahman appeared in public for the first time after announcing his separation from his wife, Saira Banu.

In an emotional conversation, Rahman shared his thoughts on music and mental health, stating that music has the power to fulfill deep human needs that go beyond physical desires, violence, and sexual relationships. According to Rahman, everyone experiences mental health challenges, as we all have a sense of emptiness in our lives that we try to fill with stories, philosophies, and entertainment—often without realizing that these things are like medicine for the soul.

Reflecting on his younger years, Rahman admitted that he often had suicidal thoughts, but his mother would always remind him, “When you live for others, you don’t become selfish, and if you live for others, the thoughts of suicide will not cross your mind.” Rahman said he took his mother’s advice very seriously and credited it with helping him overcome his struggles.

The musician also emphasized that there are small but powerful things in life that keep us going, such as smiling at someone or buying food for someone who can’t afford it. He believes that hope is what sustains us, even when we know very little about our future. “Sometimes it feels like I’ve done everything, and I’m stuck in a routine, but then you realize that your life has a greater purpose,” Rahman said.

A.R. Rahman also expressed his belief that something extraordinary might be waiting for him in the future, and hope is the only thing that gives us the strength to keep moving forward.

This revelation comes shortly after Rahman and his wife Saira Banu announced their separation after 29 years of marriage. Saira Banu’s lawyer, Vandana Shah, released a statement confirming the separation, explaining that the decision was made after years of complications in their relationship.

Rahman and Saira Banu got married on March 12, 1995, and the couple has three children: two daughters, Khadijah and Rahima, and a son, Ameen.