Filmworld
Dad was neutral towards marriage, conversion: Yuvan Shankar Raja
Chennai, March 30
Southern composer Yuvan
Shankar Raja says his father Illayaraja was never against his decision
to convert to Islam, and subsequently marry a Muslim. He says the music
maestro was neutral towards his conversion and marriage.
In 2014, Yuvan converted to Islam for unexplained reasons and married Jaffrunnisha earlier this year.
"My
father was neutral towards my decision to convert to Islam and my third
marriage. He couldn't attend my wedding owing to the short notice and
his work commitments. We were welcomed with open arms when I returned
home after marriage," Yuvan told IANS.
He still prefers to be called Yuvan, and hasn't changed his name.
"Yuvan is my identity. I don't want to change that. Nothing about me changed except that I've embraced Islam," he said.
The composer is gearing up for a concert.
"The
last few years were tough. I wrapped myself in a shell and stayed away
from all sorts of rumours and gossips. I've finally come out and I
intend to concentrate on my work. I'm looking forward to perform live in
Thirunelveli on May 9," he added.