Mumbai, March 18 -- Renowned music composer and singer AR Rahman is often hailed as the Mozart of Madras. With Oscar and Grammy awards to his name, AR Rahman has inspired millions with his soul-stirring compositions. However, apart from his music, his conversion to Islam continues to be a topic of discussion.

Born as Dileep Kumar in Chennai in 1967, Rahman embraced Islam along with his family following the demise of his father, RK Shekhar, a music composer. His conversion took place just before the release of his debut project, Roja (1992).

Interestingly, AR Rahman's journey to Islam has a connection with Gulbarga. In an interview, cinematographer and director Rajiv Menon revealed that fakirs from Gulbarga visited Rahman's home to guide...