AR Rahman's mother Kareema Begum passes away

Music maestro AR Rahman’s mother Kareema Begum passed away on Monday in Chennai due to age-related ailments. Rahman took to Twitter and shared a picture of his beloved mother, confirming reports of her demise.

Several celebrities from the industry commented on Rahman’s post and shared their heartfelt condolences. Shekhar Kapoor wrote, “Our heart is broken, I know. But your mother left you with an inner strength, an inner resilience and belief… that I have seen and admired for long. Stay strong, my friend.”

Singer Harshdeep Kaur wrote, “Dear Sir.. deeply saddened by your loss.. may god give you strength. Remembering Amma’s wonderful and gentle soul. She will forever remain in our hearts.”

The legendary music composer was very close to his mother. His father passed away when he was only nine years old and it was his mother who raised him. In an earlier interview, he had said that his mother was musically inclined and that she was the one who encouraged him to take up music. He had also said that his song Maa Tujhe Salaam was actually written for his mother.