Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has broken his silence following a wave of criticism over recent comments regarding the Indian film industry.
In a video statement released on Sunday, January 18, 2026, the maestro sought to clarify his stance, reiterating his deep-rooted love for the country and his commitment to using music as a tool for unity.
The controversy began earlier this week during an interview with BBC Asian Network, where Rahman suggested that a “power shift” in Bollywood over the last eight years—led by “non-creative” individuals—might have introduced a “communal thing” that affected his work opportunities.
“Never Wished to Cause Pain”: The Clarification
In his measured video response, Rahman addressed the backlash directly, emphasizing that his intentions were misunderstood.
“Music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating and honouring our culture. India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home,” Rahman stated. “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.”
He concluded the video with iconic footage of a stadium singing along to Maa Tujhe Salaam / Vande Mataram, a symbolic nod to his contribution to India’s national identity.
The Interview That Sparked the Storm
During his conversation with the BBC, Rahman was asked if he faced prejudice as a Tamil composer in Bollywood. While he noted he didn’t feel it in his early career, his comments on the current climate ignited a political and social firestorm:
- The “Communal” Insinuation: He mentioned hearing “Chinese whispers” about being replaced in projects, suggesting it could be due to a communal bias, though he clarified it was “not in his face.”
- Criticism of ‘Chhaava’: Rahman, who composed the music for the 2025 blockbuster Chhaava, surprisingly labeled the film “divisive.” He stated that while the film “cashed in on divisiveness,” its core intent was to show bravery.
- Industry Reactions: Javed Akhtar and Shobhaa De expressed disappointment, with Akhtar doubting Rahman would say such a thing and De calling it a “dangerous comment.” Kangana Ranaut also weighed in, claiming Rahman refused to meet her for her film Emergency, calling it “propaganda.”
Looking Forward: ‘Ramayana’ and Global Collaboration
Despite the controversy, Rahman remains focused on one of the most ambitious projects of his career: Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana.
- Epic Collaboration: Rahman is co-scoring the film with legendary Hollywood composer Hans Zimmer.
- Cultural Unity: In the same BBC interview, Rahman highlighted the multicultural nature of the project: “Hans Zimmer is Jewish, I am Muslim, and the Ramayana is Hindu. It’s coming from India to the whole world, with love.”
- Release Info: Ramayana: Part One, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi, is slated for a Diwali 2026 release.