Shaan Dismisses Communal Angle in AR Rahman's Work Slowdown Comments

Playback singer Shaan has responded to Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman's recent comments about his work in Hindi films slowing down. Rahman had suggested in a BBC interview that non-creative people now hold power and hinted at possible communal reasons behind the slowdown, which he heard as "Chinese whispers." Shaan, while acknowledging he himself isn't getting much work either, stated he doesn't delve deeply into the reasons, viewing it as a personal matter of industry preferences. He firmly dismissed any notion of a "communal or minority angle" in the music business, advising artists to focus on doing good work instead.

Key Points: Shaan Reacts to AR Rahman's Hindi Film Industry Remarks

  • Shaan responds to Rahman's interview
  • Dismisses communal bias claims
  • Highlights personal nature of work fluctuations
  • Advocates focusing on quality work
2 min read

Shaan says 'don't think there's any communal minority angle' on AR Rahman's comments

Singer Shaan addresses AR Rahman's comments on getting less work, dismissing any communal or minority bias in the music industry.

Shaan says 'don't think there's any communal minority angle' on AR Rahman's comments
"I don't think there is any communal minority angle. - Shaan"

Mumbai, Jan 17

Renowned playback singer Shaan has dismissed any notion of a "communal or minority" bias in A.R. Rahman's recent remarks about his work in the Hindi film industry slowing down.

Rahman in an interview to BBC Asian Network, had said the reasons often reach him indirectly and tagged it as "Chinese whispers".

He went on to say in the interview: "People who are not creative have the power now to decide things, and this might have been a communal thing also, but not in my face."

"It comes to me as Chinese whispers that they booked you, but the music company went ahead and hired their five composers. I said, 'Oh, that's great, rest for me, I can chill out with my family."

Asked his reactions over the comments made by the Oscar-winning music composer, Shaan told IANS: "I am standing in front of you and I am not getting much work."

"I have been singing for so many years and I am also not getting much work. But I don't go into it much because I feel it is a personal thing. Everyone has their own thoughts and likes. And how much work we should get is not in our hands."

He added: "Whatever work you get, do it well. Whatever work Mr. Rahman gets, it is his signature style. It is amazing that he is a composer and his fans have not decreased, they are increasing. So if there was any such thing,"

Shaan said that there is no "communal angle".

"I don't think there is any communal minority angle. Whatever you are saying, it doesn't happen in music. If there was such a thing, then all our three superstars, who have been in the minority for 30 years, but their fans are less than anyone else, are increasing. So it doesn't happen. Do good work, do good music and don't think about all this."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
I respect both artists immensely, but I think Rahman sir might be hinting at the politics and favoritism that exists behind the scenes. It's not always about pure talent getting opportunities. Shaan's point about doing good work is valid, but the industry can be cliquey.
A
Aman W
Trends change, public taste changes. Maybe Rahman's sound is considered too rich or complex for the current massy, remix-heavy market? It has nothing to do with his religion. His fanbase is still massive!
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Sarah B
As an outsider following Indian music, this is interesting. Both make fair points. An artist of Rahman's caliber feeling sidelined is concerning, but Shaan's pragmatic "focus on your craft" approach is also wise. The industry seems tough everywhere.
K
Karthik V
Shaan's response is very diplomatic and avoids controversy. But let's be real, if even AR Rahman feels this way, there might be some truth to it. The "non-creative people in power" line hits hard. Bollywood has always had camps and biases.
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Nisha Z
True artists like Rahman and Shaan should be above all this. Their music unites us all. Jai Ho and Tanhayee don't have a religion. Let's just enjoy the magic they create instead of dissecting interviews. More music, less gossip please! 🎵

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