The Astrologer’s Unexpected Gift
The turning point came during a family visit to a Hindu astrologer. The visit was initially to check Rahman’s younger sister’s horoscope for marriage purposes. Rahman recalled, “Sometime before we started on our journey on the path of Sufism, we went to an astrologer to show him my younger sister’s horoscope because my mother wanted to get her married. This was around the same time when I was keen to change my name. The astrologer looked at me and said, ‘This chap is very interesting.’”
The astrologer then suggested two Muslim names: Abdul Rahman and Abdul Rahim. Rahman shared, “I instantly loved the name Rahman.” Later, his mother added “Allahrakha,” meaning “Protected by God,” which completed his name as Allahrakha Rahman—the name by which the world now knows him.
A Close Friend Witnesses His Spiritual Journey
Cinematographer Rajiv Menon, a close friend, witnessed Rahman’s gradual transformation towards Islam. He recalled, “I have seen this period of transition and gravitation towards religion and belief. I have seen Rahman deal with immense pressure from within the family, especially with the marriages of his sisters. It was music that helped him brave the storm.”
Menon further explained how Rahman’s struggles shaped his art: “He’d say that music helped him forget it. He thought God gave him problems so that he can use music to gain some clarity.”
From being Dilip Kumar to becoming AR Rahman, this journey was more than just a name change—it was a profound transformation of faith, identity, and purpose that continues to inspire millions worldwide.
