In a recent interview, A.R. Rahman, the globally acclaimed Indian composer, opened up about feeling "gaslighted" regarding his work and the surprising burden that his two Oscars have placed on him. The revelation offers a rare glimpse into the challenges faced by even the most successful artists in the entertainment industry.
Rahman, who has had an illustrious career spanning three decades, has left an indelible mark on Tamil, Hindi, and other regional language film industries. From "Roja" to "Slumdog Millionaire," his music has garnered him numerous awards and accolades, including two Academy Awards. However, the composer suggests that this recognition has inadvertently created a new set of challenges.
In the interview, Rahman confessed that he felt people had "gaslighted" him into believing that his work was no longer up to par. This prompted him to increase his workload, leading him to score 20 to 30 films in the last six years. It appears the composer felt pressured to constantly prove his worth, even after achieving the highest honors in his field.
Rahman also reflected on the complex relationship he has with his two Oscars. While they represent a monumental achievement, he admitted that they "can be a burden". The pressure to constantly live up to the Oscar-winning standard, coupled with external perceptions and expectations, seems to have weighed heavily on the composer.
This isn't the first time Rahman has hinted at facing hurdles in the industry. In a past interview with BBC Asian Network, when asked about prejudice in the Hindi film industry in the 1990s, Rahman stated that while he didn't overtly experience it then, he has noticed a slowdown in his Hindi music career in the last eight years. He attributed this to a "power shift" and even alluded to the possibility of "communal" factors at play, which sparked considerable debate.
Despite these challenges, Rahman remains committed to his craft. He is set to compose the music for the upcoming film "Ramayana". He also recently released a new track, "Mayile," from Prabhu Deva's "Moonwalk".
Rahman's story serves as a reminder that success doesn't necessarily equate to an absence of challenges. Even artists at the pinnacle of their careers can grapple with self-doubt, external pressures, and the ever-evolving dynamics of the entertainment industry. His willingness to speak openly about these struggles provides valuable insight into the realities of the music world and the human experiences behind the accolades. He also revealed that facing financial burdens at a young age made him strong. He shares financial issues with his children to teach them about real life.
