AR Rahman News: Rahman Advocates for Peace, Declares No Religion Teaches Violence

Oscar-winning musician and composer AR Rahman has recently made profound statements regarding religion and Sufism, asserting that no faith inherently teaches violence. In a candid podcast discussion, Rahman articulated his firm belief that harming or killing individuals in the name of religion is utterly unacceptable, a conviction he arrived at after extensive personal study of various global faiths. His remarks underscore a universal message of peace and unity, resonating deeply with his artistic philosophy.

A Universal Message Against Violence

During his recent interaction, AR Rahman revealed that his understanding of religion stems from a personal exploration of diverse belief systems. He shared, "I am a fan of all religions, while I've studied Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity. " This comprehensive study led him to a singular, powerful conclusion: "My only problem is that killing or hurting someone in the name of religion shouldn't be accepted at all. " Rahman's statement serves as a potent reminder that the core tenets of major religions universally reject violence and advocate for compassion and coexistence, while he firmly believes that any act of aggression perpetrated under the guise of religious doctrine fundamentally misrepresents the true spirit of faith.

Rahman also delved into his personal spiritual journey, highlighting his deep-seated connection to Sufism. This mystical branch of Islam, known for its emphasis on inner purity, love, and tolerance, has profoundly influenced his life and creative output. He shared his thoughts on how Sufism has shaped his worldview, guiding him towards a path of introspection and spiritual enlightenment. His journey isn't merely an intellectual pursuit but a lived experience that informs his artistic expression and his public pronouncements on matters of faith and humanity. The acclaimed composer, celebrated globally for his innovative music, often. Infuses his compositions with spiritual depth, reflecting his personal beliefs.

The Stage as a Sacred Space

For AR Rahman, the act of performing transcends mere entertainment; it becomes a spiritual experience. He articulated his unique perspective on the stage, describing it as a "pilgrimage site. " He explained, "I love to entertain people, and when I perform, I feel like it's a pilgrimage site, while we're all enjoying the fruit of unity. People of different religions, speaking different languages, are all together there, while " This vision transforms a concert into a communal gathering where barriers of language, culture, and religion dissolve, allowing individuals to connect on a deeper, human level through the universal language of music. It's a testament to his belief in the unifying power of art and shared experience.

Understanding Sufism: Dying Before Dying

Rahman offered a profound insight into the essence of Sufism, describing it as "dying before dying. " This metaphorical concept, central to Sufi philosophy, refers not to physical death but to the annihilation of the ego and negative human traits. He elaborated, "There are certain veils that make you introspect, and to remove those veils, you've to be destroyed. Lust, greed, hatred, or condemnation, all these must be destroyed. Your ego goes away, and then you become transparent like God. " This process involves a rigorous self-purification, shedding worldly attachments and destructive emotions to achieve a state of spiritual clarity and oneness with the divine. It's a path of intense self-reflection and transformation, aiming for inner peace and moral excellence.

The Essence of Faith and Humanity

Concluding his discourse, Rahman underscored the ultimate purpose of faith. He stated, "We follow different religions, but the truth of faith is tested, while that inspires us to do good deeds. Humanity benefits from that. " His words emphasize that the true measure of one's faith lies not in outward rituals or sectarian divisions, but in its ability to inspire virtuous actions that contribute positively to society, while he advocates for a faith that transcends dogma and fosters a sense of shared responsibility towards humanity, promoting kindness, empathy, and collective well-being. This perspective aligns with his consistent message of harmony and mutual respect, urging individuals to look beyond superficial differences and embrace the common threads of humanity.