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Border 2 lyricist Manoj Muntashir has firmly opposed AR Rahman for asserting that the film industry exhibits communal bias. The renowned writer referenced
instances of Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and the immense popularity of Aamir Khan to dismiss the remarks made by Chhaava's composer, asserting that there is no bias present in the film sector. Meanwhile, AR Rahman found himself at the center of controversy after stating that he has not received much work in recent years, seemingly due to communal politics. Manoj elaborated in a discussion with IANS about his perspective on the inclusive essence of Indian cinema, emphasizing that talent, rather than religion, has always been the key determinant of success.
Manoj Muntashir Discusses the Success of Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan
Manoj refuted AR Rahman's assertion by highlighting the immense stardom of Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan. He pointed out that the presence of the nation's top superstars from a single community challenges the narrative of bias. He contended that Indian cinema has consistently honored artists from various religions, including not just actors but also writers, poets, and technicians.
In his opinion, the prominence of legends like Javed Akhtar, Sahir Ludhianvi, and Majrooh Sultanpuri as household names illustrates the deep-seated inclusivity within the industry.
He further elaborated that examining the credits of any Hindi film reveals a story of its own. Numerous individuals work behind the scenes, representing a wide array of backgrounds. Manoj stated he has never observed a trend where one religion is preferred over another. He openly questioned the notion that something significant has shifted in the past eight years, expressing confusion over why that particular timeframe keeps arising in discussions.
Nevertheless, the writer known for Adipurush recognized AR Rahman's international acclaim and his contributions to Indian music, affirming that the country takes pride in him. Simultaneously, he noted that disagreement does not equate to disrespect. He referenced recent hits like Pathaan and Jawan, which broke box office records, as evidence of how audiences continue to support artists without bias.
What Is The AR Rahman Controversy All About?
The controversy ignited when AR Rahman, during a recent conversation, addressed his diminished involvement in Hindi films over the last few years. He associated it with a shift in power dynamics and suggested that communal politics were affecting opportunities in the industry. The remark quickly gained traction, eliciting mixed responses. While some rallied behind the composer, many vehemently disagreed, arguing that his claims overlooked the realities on the ground.
In response to the backlash, the Oscar-winning music composer subsequently shared a video message to clarify his remarks. He expressed regret if his comments caused any hurt and emphasized that it was never his intention to inflict pain.
