April 3, 2010 (Sampurn Wire): AR Rahman, who after doing India proud with his double victory at both the Oscars and the Grammies, is set to promote love and unity through his music because it his belief that Islam has been hijacked by extremists.
.JPG "A R Rahman at Blue film music preview in Cinemax on 12th Aug 2009 (10)")
Allah Rakha (AR) Rahman, who was earlier called Dileep Kumar, expressed that Islam had a rich musical tradition. He reveals that Islam appealed to him because it was a religion based on unconditional love and a belief in one God and one love. He admits to being specifically drawn to Sufism.
The 44-year-old musician clarified that Islam doesn’t forbid music, as contrary to what fundamentalists popularize. He states that he never skips prayers as it is his reprieve from tension and it gives him hope that God is with him. He wants to work to create music that will bring people together.
Some of his best-known works like the soundtrack from Slumdog Millionaire, Elizabeth: the Golden Age, the hit musical Bollywood Dreams, and some of his landmark Indian films, such as Lagaan and Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na willl be performed at The London Philharmonic. His concert next week is part of his mission to unite people through music.
– Sampurn Wire
