Oscar-winning composer, A.R. Rahman, is an idol for most music lovers, and meeting him is beyond an ardent fan’s imagination. Our wish child, Rishab, a resident of Chennai, dreamt of such a meeting and Make-A-Wish India made it come true.
Rishab, a 17-year-old boy from Chennai, has a deep and abiding passion for music. He pours his heart into composing melodies, singing, and playing the keyboard, even while bravely battling with Acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Undergoing treatment at Apollo Speciality Hospital in Chennai, Rishab found inspiration and hope in the renowned composer A.R. Rahman, dreaming fervently of meeting his musical idol. When asked about his most fervent wish. Without any hesitation he replied, “To meet my idol, A.R. Rahman!” Make-A-Wish India
embarked on a mission to make his dream a reality, enlisting the invaluable support of the esteemed film director Mani Ratnam.
On Rishab’s birthday, a day that would forever be etched in his memory, he had the incredible opportunity to meet A.R. Rahman. The legendary composer welcomed him with warmth and kindness. During their meeting, Rishab played music on Rahman’s piano, received autographs, and posed for cherished photographs. Rahman, with his characteristic grace, answered all of Rishab’s eager questions, shared insights from his own musical journey, and even offered Rishab a chance to enrol in his prestigious music school. As a token of this unforgettable encounter, Rahman gifted Rishab a Samsung Galaxy S3 smartphone loaded with exclusive content.
This extraordinary experience was nothing short of transformative for Rishab. It reignited his hope and filled him with renewed enthusiasm to face his treatments with courage. Dr. Revathi Raj, his physician, observed a marked positive shift in his outlook and spirit following this magical meeting. She said, “Rishab has had a long journey with his disease. His battle to overcome it was met with great courage and when the same illness struck again, he was completely devastated. His special meeting with A.R. Rahman has transformed him and has given him fresh enthusiasm to face life. Now, he shows up for his treatments with increased courage and hope.”
On the 1st anniversary of our Chennai chapter, Rishab played the keyboard beautifully. He recounted his incredible experience, expressing profound gratitude to the fulfilling his dream.
He sang his favourite A.R. Rahman songs which left the crowd mesmerised. He evocatively portrayed his gratitude to Make-A-Wish India for making the 6th of October an unforgettable day. Now in the 12th standard, Rishab is determined to complete his education and join Rahman’s music school, brimming with confidence and vitality.
Rishab’s story is a testament to the power of dreams and the profound impact of kindness. His journey, infused with music and hope, continues to inspire all who hear it, underscoring the limitless possibilities that arise when compassion meets determination.
