Kareema Begum, AR Rahman's mother, passes away

Academy award-winner AR Rahman's mother Kareema Begum passed away earlier today in Chennai due to age-related ailment. The composer took to his social media account to share an image of his mother, with condolence messages poured in from fans and celebrities alike.

Kareema, wife of late composer RK Shekhar, brought up her children as a single mother, and is survived by her children AR Rahman, AR Reihana, Ishrath, and Fathima, and grandchildren, including music composer GV Prakash.

AR Rahman’s frequent collaborator and fellow Oscar winner, Resul Pookutty, was among those posting his condolences. He said, “Deeply saddened to hear the passing of our Aapa Kareema Begum. Everyone who knows AR Rahman has received her love and blessings. A noble soul has passed on, May Allah give you strength to pull through this; I know you are devastated. My thoughts and prayers are with you and family.”

Other celebrities like Khushbu, SJ Suryah, Arun Vijay, Shanthnu Bhagyaraj, and Sean Roldan also shared their condolences.