AR Rahman has released a video statement addressing the controversy surrounding his recent comments on alleged communal biases in the Hindi film industry. In the statement, Rahman emphasized that India remains his “inspiration, teacher, and home,” while expressing regret over any unintended pain caused by his words.
The uproar began after Rahman’s interview with BBC Asian Network, published earlier this week, where he discussed a perceived decline in Bollywood opportunities over the past eight years.
Reflecting on his career, Rahman noted, “The past eight years, maybe, because a power shift has happened, and people who are not creative have the power now. It might be a communal thing also… but it is not in my face.”
He described hearing about lost projects through “Chinese whispers,” such as instances where he was initially booked but later replaced by other composers.
Rahman, who is Muslim and hails from Tamil Nadu, also critiqued the film Chhaava for what he called “cashing in on divisiveness.”
These remarks quickly drew criticism online and from industry figures, with some accusing Rahman of playing the “victim card” despite his storied success, including Academy Awards for Slumdog Millionaire and iconic contributions to films like Roja, Dil Se, and Lagaan. Conservative outlets labeled it a “Muslim victimhood narrative,” arguing it rings hollow given Rahman’s ongoing high-profile projects, such as scoring the upcoming Ramayana alongside Hans Zimmer—a film rooted in Hindu mythology—and Chhaava, which chronicles the life of Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Sambhaji.
“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.”
A.R.Rahman speaks out & responds with clarity.#ARRahman ❤ pic.twitter.com/0YiFOJMA2v
— A.R.Rahman News (@ARRahman_News) January 18, 2026
He highlighted his recent multicultural initiatives, including nurturing the track Jala presented at the WAVES Summit before Prime Minister Narendra Modi, collaborating with young Naga musicians on a string orchestra, mentoring the Sunshine Orchestra, building India’s first multicultural virtual band Secret Mountain, and his work on Ramayana.
The video concluded with footage of crowds singing his patriotic anthem Maa Tujhe Salaam (also known as Vande Mataram) during a cricket match.
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