“Sonu Nigam opens up about AR Rahman’s unique personality and professional ethos in a candid interview, highlighting his detachment from gossip and focus on spirituality.”
January 11, 2025: New Delhi: Sonu Nigam, one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, shared rare insights into the personality of composer-singer AR Rahman during a recent interaction with O2 India. The two legends, who have worked together on iconic songs like Satrangi Re (Dil Se) and Aayo Re Sakhi (Water), have maintained a long-standing professional relationship.
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Describing AR Rahman as intensely private, Sonu Nigam revealed, “He doesn’t have relationships in the typical sense. He is not the kind of person who opens up or forms close bonds. Maybe with his old friends who knew him as Dileep, but I’ve never seen him being overtly friendly. He is just focused on his work.”
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Sonu recalled his first collaboration with Rahman for the film Daud, where the maestro allowed him creative freedom during the recording process. “He lets you explore as an artist but keeps his interactions professional. He doesn’t behave badly with anyone or hurt anybody’s heart. He doesn’t gossip, which I think is a testament to his character,” Sonu said.
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A Unique Personality
Further elaborating on Rahman’s personality, Sonu said, “He doesn’t want to know about anyone, and he doesn’t want others to know much about him either. He is a unique personality, someone detached from unnecessary chatter and deeply connected to his work and prayers.”
During a US tour, Sonu shared how their exchanges were minimal yet respectful. “He doesn’t know how to gossip, but that’s not a drawback. That’s just who he is. It’s how it should be,” he added.
Focus on Work Amid Personal Scrutiny
The conversation around Rahman’s reserved nature resurfaced recently after his divorce from wife Saira Banu after three decades of marriage. In the wake of the news, an old interview with Rahman’s brother-in-law also highlighted the composer’s private nature, emphasizing that Rahman has never been inclined to discuss personal matters or engage in gossip.
Sonu Nigam’s reflections underline Rahman’s singular focus on work, prayer, and family, a combination that has fueled his unmatched success in the global music industry.
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AR Rahman, Sonu Nigam, Bollywood music legends, AR Rahman private life, iconic music collaborations, celebrity interviews, Indian music industry.