New Delhi: A.R. Rahman Faces Massive Backlash Over ‘Communal’ Remark – Did Oscar Winner Hint at Bollywood Bias? Music maestro clarifies in emotional video,
but controversy rages. From a BBC interview statement to a social storm, is the Hindi film industry playing favourites?
Fans divided as Rahman reaffirms love for India – full story inside on his shocking words, projects, and plea for understanding.
Rahman’s video response to his communal bias statement
A.R. Rahman, the Oscar-winning composer behind hits like Roja, Bombay, and Dil Se, shared a heartfelt video on Instagram on Sunday to address backlash from his recent BBC Asian Network interview. He said, “Dear friends, music has always been the way to connect, celebrate and honour India’s culture”. The 59-year-old added, “India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home. I understand that intentions can sometimes be misunderstood. But my purpose has always been to uplift, honour and serve through music. I have never wished to cause pain, and I hope my sincerity is felt”.
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Background of controversy
The row started after Rahman’s BBC interview, where he discussed fewer opportunities in Hindi films over the last eight years. He noted a “power shift” in the industry, saying, “People who are not creative have the power now to decide things, and this might have been a communal thing also, but not in my face”. Rahman explained it reached him indirectly: “It comes to me as Chinese whispers that they booked you, but the music company went ahead and hired their five composers. I said, ‘Oh, that’s great, rest for me, I can chill out with my family”. His words triggered widespread criticism online, with many questioning whether he implied religious bias in Bollywood.
Key projects highlighted by Rahman
In the video, Rahman listed projects showing his commitment to India’s diversity. He mentioned “nurturing Jhalaa, presented at the WAVES summit in front of the honourable Prime Minister and Rooh-e-Noor”. Other efforts include “collaborating with the young Naga musicians, to creating a string orchestra, to mentoring the Sunshine orchestra, also building Secret Mountain, India’s first multicultural virtual band and the honour of scoring Ramayana, alongside Hans Zimmer”. He concluded, “I feel blessed to be Indian, which enables me to create a space which always allows freedom of expression and celebrates multicultural voices”. These examples underline his role in blending cultures through music.
Industry reactions and bigger picture
Critics like Shobhaa De called his BBC comment “very dangerous,” stressing Bollywood favours talent over religion. Singer Shaan dismissed any communal angle, saying, “Whatever work you get, do it well”. Javed Akhtar and others urged maturity from the global icon. Despite the uproar, Rahman’s clarification reaffirms his patriotism amid debates on industry dynamics. As Bollywood evolves with corporate influences, his story highlights challenges even legends face. Fans await to see if this quiets the storm or fuels more chatter.
