It’s Her Choice: AR Rahman on His Daughter Wearing the Veil

Many accused AR Rahman of forcing his daughter Khatija to don the niqaab.

Rahman hits back at trolls. 

(Photo courtesy: Twitter)

AR Rahman recently attended an event to celebrate 10 years of Slumdog Millionaire’s musical journey. His elder daughter, Khatija was invited to interview the Oscar winner on the stage. Clad in a niqaab, Khatija went on share anecdotes about her father, besides asking him some advice as they shared the stage.

But the father-daughter duo were criticised on social media because of Khatija’s attire. Many accused Rahman of forcing his daughter to don the veil.

The musician hit back at trolls with a photo of his wife and two daughters posing with Nita Ambani. While his wife Sairaa covered her head with a dupatta, Khatija wore a niqaab while Raheema did not. The photo was accompanied with #FreedomToChoose.

As per a screenshot of what seems to be from Khatija’s private account on Instagram, Rahman’s daughter clarified that the niqaab was her choice.

“The recent conversation of myself on stage with my dad has been doing the rounds although I didn't expect such an overwhelming response. However, there were certain comments which said that this attire is being forced by my dad and that he has double standards.

I would like to say that the attire I wear or the choices I make in my life does not have anything to do with my parents. The veil has been my personal choice with complete acceptance and honour.

I'm a sane mature adult who knows to make my choices in life. Any human being has a choice to wear or do what he/she wants and that's what I've been doing. Hence, kindly don't make your own judgements without understanding the exact situation #freedomofchoice. [sic]”

Rahman and Khatija share the stage. (Photo courtesy: Instagram)

AR Rahman has three children - Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.