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A.R. Rahman Breaks Silence, Attends Concert After Bollywood Remarks Uproar

Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman attended the musical concert for the film 'Gandhi Talks', marking his second public appearance following a controversy over his comments about the Hindi film industry. Rahman had suggested in an interview that "communal" factors and shifting power dynamics may have limited his work offers in Bollywood over eight years, sparking significant backlash. In response, he issued a video clarification on Instagram, stating his words were misunderstood and that he never intended to cause hurt. He emphasized India as his home and inspiration, detailing recent projects to underscore his commitment to cultural unity through music.

Key Points: A.R. Rahman Clarifies Controversial Bollywood Remarks

  • Made 2nd public appearance post-controversy
  • Attended 'Gandhi Talks' concert
  • Clarified remarks in Instagram video
  • Cited shift in industry dynamics
  • Reaffirmed commitment to unity through music
2 min read

A. R. Rahman makes 2nd appearance after controversial remarks against the industry

Oscar winner A.R. Rahman makes public appearance, issues video clarification after comments on "communal" factors in Hindi film industry sparked backlash.

"India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home. - A.R. Rahman"

Mumbai, Jan 26

The Oscar and Grammy-winning music composer A. R. Rahman, made his 2nd appearance after the recent controversy over his remarks with regards to the film industry turning a 'communal thing'.

The music composer attended the musical concert of film 'Gandhi Talks' where he will sing songs of the film with Shraddha Arya, Mahira Khan and Zoya Afroz. While he was spotted at the red carpet of the event, the music composer refrained from speaking with the media, and simply posed for the cameras.

The controversy erupted after Rahman's statement in a recent interview about his experience working in the Hindi film industry.

During a recent interaction with BBC Asian Network, Rahman spoke about getting limited work offers in Bollywood.

He suggested that over the past eight years, a shift in power dynamics and "communal" factors, meaning issues tied to religion, regional identity, and industry politics, may have influenced the types of opportunities he received in Bollywood. His comments sparked a strong public and media backlash, with many interpreting his words as implying discrimination or bias within the industry.

Following the uproar, Rahman issued a video clarification, stressing that his intentions were misunderstood and that he "never meant to hurt anyone". He described India as his inspiration and reaffirmed that his music is rooted in unity and cultural celebration.

The Oscar-winning composer took to Instagram and uploaded a video sharing that India is not only his home, but also his inspiration and his teacher.

He said, "Dear friends, music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating and honouring a culture. India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home. 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".

"From nurturing Jala presented at the Wave Summit in front of the Honourable Prime Minister and Ruhi Noor, to collaborating with the young Naga musicians, to create a string orchestra, to mentoring the Sunshine Orchestra, also building Secret Mountain, India's first multicultural virtual band and the honour of scoring Ramayana alongside Hans Zimmer, each journey has strengthened my purpose", he added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Honestly, the media blew this way out of proportion. He gave a clarification, let's move on. His work for 'Ramayana' with Hans Zimmer is what we should be talking about! Can't wait for that.
A
Aman W
As a musician myself, I understand what he might have meant. The industry has camps and favouritism, it's not new. Calling it 'communal' was a poor choice of words, but his clarification seems sincere. We need his music back in Bollywood!
S
Sarah B
It's sad to see such a legend having to explain himself. His body of work speaks for his love for India. From "Vande Mataram" to now, he has given us anthems. Let's give him some grace.
V
Vikram M
With respect, even icons need to be careful with their words in today's sensitive climate. His initial statement did create unnecessary hurt. But his apology and his incredible legacy should allow for forgiveness. Jai Ho!
K
Kriti O
The man has an Oscar and a Grammy. If he says he's getting fewer offers, maybe the industry should introspect why instead of attacking him. Talent should be the only criteria, not which group you belong to.
D
David E
Interesting to see this play out.

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