What is the story about?
AR Rahman's daughters Khatija and Raheema have reacted on social media amid the ongoing backlash faced by the composer over his recent remarks that sparked
a row online. The controversy began after Rahman said that there be 'communal' reasons behind him getting less work in Bollywood for the past few years. After massive backlash, he later issued a clarification but discussions around his statements continue across platforms. In this context, both Khatija and Raheema shared a post by Malayalam music composer Kailas Menon, which addressed the reactions Rahman has been receiving. While neither of Rahman’s daughters made any direct statement of their own, their decision to amplify Menon's note suggested their take on the row.
Kailas Menon's Post On Backlash Against AR Rahman
Kailas Menon took to Instagram to highlight comments made against AR Rahman following his remarks. He shared screenshots of social media posts that described Rahman as a 'disgrace to Tamil Nadu and India' and accused him of playing the 'victim card'. Menon wrote, "Disagree, don't disgrace. People blaming A R Rahman for speaking his mind are missing a basic point. He spoke about how he felt. That is his right. You may disagree with him, but you cannot deny him the freedom to express his experience."
Menon further added, “Calling a globally respected artist a 'disgrace', questioning his faith, mocking his recent works, and reducing his lived experience to a 'victim card' is not criticism. It's hate speech presented as opinion." He concluded by writing, "Criticism is fine, but outrage without respect says more about us than about him."
How Khatija And Raheema Responded
Reacting to Menon's post, Khatija Rahman shared it on her Instagram stories. She also commented on the post using emojis, including clapping hands, fire, a heart and a hundred symbol. She posted a separate message on her account as well that read, "Dear God, bless my friends who checked in on me without wanting anything in return. Return that love to them multiplied and bless everything they touch."
Rahman’s younger daughter Raheema also reshared Kailas Menon’s post on her Instagram stories, without adding any caption or comment.
What AR Rahman Said Earlier
The controversy started after AR Rahman spoke about changes in the film industry and suggested that certain unspoken communal factors may have played a role in him getting fewer opportunities. He also said that the film Chhaava had benefited from “divisiveness”, which led to criticism from some users.
Following the reactions, Rahman issued a clarification, stating that he never wished to cause pain.
