‘Freedom to choose’: AR Rahman stands up for daughter’s right to wear a niqab 

AR Rahman and his daughter Khatija. 

Musician AR Rahman came under criticism after his daughter Khatija wore a niqab during an event to mark 10 years of Slumdog Millionaire’s Oscar win.

As a response, Rahman shared a photo on his Twitter account, with the caption, “The precious ladies of my family Khatija, Raheema and Sairaa with Nita Ambaniji #freedomtochoose.” The photo showed that the three women of his family were dressed differently. While his youngest daughter Raheema and wife Sairaa are not veiled, Khatija is seen in a niqab, suggesting what one wears is their personal choice.

The precious ladies of my family Khatija ,Raheema and Sairaa with NitaAmbaniji #freedomtochoose pic.twitter.com/H2DZePYOtA

— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) February 6, 2019

Rahman’s daughter Khatija, who was invited to interview him on stage and had sung for her father in Enthiran, wrote a long Facebook post in support of her father, clarifying he never forced his decisions on her.

Khatija, in her post, said, “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.”

Related