Sunday, 18 January 2026| Dubai, UAE [ Posted at 8:02 pm ]
Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has addressed the backlash surrounding his recent comments on alleged “communal” bias in the Hindi film industry. He clarified that his words were misunderstood and reaffirmed his deep emotional and creative bond with India. The clarification comes after Rahman’s interview with BBC Asian Network sparked intense debate across social media and entertainment circles.
The Controversy: How It Began
The debate started when Rahman said in the BBC interview that work from the Hindi film industry had slowed for him in recent years. He attributed it to changing power dynamics and suggested it might have been a communal thing, but not directly expressed to him.
He said, “I hear it as Chinese whispers”, explaining that decisions often come from non-creative power centres rather than artistic considerations.
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Industry Reactions: Mixed but Measured
AR Rahman statement attracted criticism from many prominent voices. Writer Shobhaa De called the comment “dangerous,” arguing that Bollywood has historically been free of communal bias and driven primarily by talent.
Singer Shaan echoed a similar sentiment, as he said that reduced work opportunities are often personal and market-driven, not communal. Lyricist Javed Akhtar also denied sensing any such bias, noting that Rahman continues to command immense respect within the industry.
Meanwhile, actor-politician Kangana Ranaut escalated the debate by accusing Rahman of refusing to collaborate on her film Emergency. She called it prejudice and labelled his stance as dismissive. Rahman has not directly responded to her claims.
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What Did AR Rahman Reply?
In a video message shared on Instagram, Rahman highlighted that music has always been his primary language of connection, not controversy. He underlined that India remains central to his life, identity, and artistic journey.
He said, “Music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating and honouring a culture. India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home.” He added that he never intended to hurt sentiments and hopes his sincerity is felt.
He also described himself as fortunate to be Indian. He stressed that the country provides him with a space that motivates creative freedom and celebrates diverse voices.
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Projects That Reflect His Commitment
To reinforce his message, Rahman cited several initiatives that showcase his dedication to cultural unity and artistic diversity. Below is the list of those projects:
- Jala at the WAVES Summit
- Collaboration with young Naga musicians to create a string orchestra
- Mentoring the Sunshine Orchestra
- Building Secret Mountain, India’s first multicultural virtual band
He also mentioned the honour of scoring Ramayana alongside Hans Zimmer, calling each project a reaffirmation of his purpose as a composer who seeks to uplift and inspire.
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Rahman’s Final Message
Closing his video, Rahman expressed gratitude to India and reaffirmed his mission to create music that honours the past, celebrates the present, and inspires the future. The statement was accompanied by visuals of crowds singing Maa Tujhe Salaam / Vande Mataram, which highlights his cultural legacy.
For audiences in the UAE, the AR Rahman controversy highlights a broader conversation about creative freedom, perception, and the power of music to unify across borders and beliefs. It is a principle Rahman insists remains at the heart of everything he creates. Interestingly, AR Rahman enjoys a massive following in the UAE.
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FAQ
1. Why did AR Rahman face backlash over his comments?
AR Rahman faced criticism after suggesting in a BBC Asian Network interview that reduced work in Bollywood over recent years might be linked to changing power dynamics and possibly a communal factor.
2. What clarification did AR Rahman issue after the controversy?
Rahman released a video message stating that his comments were misunderstood and reaffirmed that India remains his inspiration, home, and creative foundation. He stressed that he never intended to hurt anyone’s sentiments.
3. Did AR Rahman say Bollywood is communal?
No. Rahman did not directly accuse the Hindi film industry of being communal. He said any such bias was not expressed to him openly and reached him indirectly.
4. What did Kangana Ranaut say about AR Rahman?
Kangana Ranaut accused Rahman of refusing to collaborate on her film Emergency.
