Vicky Kaushal-starrer Chhaava dominated the box office for much of 2025 before Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar overtook it in December. While the historical epic enjoyed blockbuster success, it also found itself
at the centre of controversy for its depiction of the conflict between Maratha warrior-king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Now, composer A. R. Rahman has weighed in on the debate, candidly acknowledging that the film was, in fact, divisive.
The film’s massive theatrical run was followed by unrest in parts of Maharashtra, including riots in Nagpur. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis later stated that the violence stemmed from public anger directed at Aurangzeb’s portrayal in the film.
AR Rahman on Working in a Divisive Climate
In a conversation with BBC Asian Network, Rahman reflected on navigating an industry increasingly shaped by polarised narratives. Speaking about the responsibility of artists in such times, he said, “That’s the reason God is giving more power to people like us so that we can replace the bad with good by word, action, art.”
Asked whether the growing divisiveness has made him more selective about his projects, Rahman was clear that intent matters most. “Some films are made with a bad intention. I try to avoid those movies,” he said.
‘Chhaava Did Cash In on Divisiveness’
Rahman was also asked about his earlier statement expressing pride in Chhaava’s soundtrack, despite the controversy surrounding the film. Addressing the contradiction head-on, he admitted, “It is a divisive film. I think it cashed in on divisiveness, but I think the core of it is to show bravery.”
The composer revealed that he had even questioned the director about his involvement in the project. “I had asked the director, ‘Why did he need me for this film?’ But he said that we need only you for this,” Rahman recalled.
While acknowledging the film’s polarising elements, Rahman maintained that audiences are capable of independent thought. “It is an enjoyable film, but definitely people are smarter than that. Do you think people are going to get influenced by movies? They have something called internal conscience, which knows what the truth is and what manipulation is.”
Honoured to Score a Film on Sambhaji Maharaj
Despite the criticism, Rahman said he felt deeply honoured to be associated with a film centred on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. “Chhaava is the most celebrated character. It is like the blood of every Maratha,” he said.
He added that the film’s emotional core moved him profoundly. “Once the film finishes, you see the girl saying the beautiful poetry. It’s very moving. I’m so honoured to have scored that full movie, which has the pulse and soul of every Maratha.”
Calling Out ‘Cringe’ Stereotypes
Rahman also addressed criticism surrounding scenes where characters utter phrases like “Subhanallah” and “Alhamdulillah” during moments of violence. Dismissing such portrayals as lazy and stereotypical, he said, “That is such a cliché. It is cringe.”
Emphasising his faith in audiences, Rahman concluded, “I have great respect for people. They are not that foolish to get influenced by false information. I have great faith in humanity. People have a conscience, heart, love and compassion.”
