Addressing a gathering of students at the Oxford Union debating society, Rahman recalled his mother’s words of wisdom and shared, “When I had suicidal thoughts when I was young, my mother used to say, ‘When you live for others, you won’t get these thoughts.’ That’s one of the most beautiful pieces of advice I got from my mother.”
Rahman delved into the importance of selflessness and finding meaning in life by contributing to others and expressed, “When you live for others, and you’re not selfish, there’s a meaning to your life. I took it very seriously, whether you’re composing for somebody, writing for something, buying food for a person who can’t afford it, or you just smile at someone, these are the things that keep us going.”
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He believes that this perspective gives life profound meaning and purpose, keeping him motivated. “Sometimes, I feel like I’ve done it all, that I’m in a repetitive cycle, and then you realize there’s a bigger role for you,” he added.
He also responded to queries about his relatively private approach to discussing spiritualism. He acknowledged that everyone faces dark times but emphasized the fleeting nature of life. “We all have dark times. It’s a small little travel in this world. We were born, and we’re going to go. It’s not a permanent place for us. Where we’re going to go, we don’t know. It depends on each person’s own imagination and beliefs,” he said.
In addition to his reflections on spirituality and personal growth, Rahman shared his aspirations beyond music. He envisions contributing to society through education and mentoring the younger generation.