AR Rahman’s daughter Khatija recently shared the stage with her father during the celebration of 10 years of Slumdog Millionaire, the music of which was by the composer.
Khatija, who has sung for her father in Enthiran, came clad in a Sari with her face covered in a niqab. This led to many calling out her ‘conservative’ dressing.
Rahman then addressed the issue and shared a photo on Twitter with the caption: “The precious ladies of my family Khatija, Raheema and Sairaa with Nita Ambaniji #freedomtochoose.” All the women in the picture are differently dressed.
Khatija has also reportedly clarified that she was not forced by anyone to wear the veil. She wrote a long post on Facebook that reads: “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”