• Source:JND

AR Rahman finally spoke up following days of criticism for the remarks he made in an interview. The Oscar-winning composer reaffirmed his love for India and claimed that he has always tried to utilise music to help the nation and that it was never his intention to harm with his remarks. Additionally, he shared a video of his song Maa Tujhe Salaam/Vande Mataram playing at the end of the video.

AR Rahman said that he never wanted to hurt anyone's sentiments. "Dear friends, music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating and honouring our 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."

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AR Rahman went on to say that he considers himself fortunate to be Indian since it allows him to operate in an environment that promotes diversity and freedom of expression. "From nurturing Jhalaa, presented at the WAVES summit in front of the honourable Prime Minister and Rooh-e-Noor, to collaborating with the young Naga musicians, to creating 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."

"I remain grateful to this nation and committed to music that honours the past," he said as he concluded his message, which included a video of an arena full of people singing together his song Maa Tujhe Salaam/Vande Mataram.

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AR Rahman responded calmly to the criticism, while emphasising communication that is clear, honest and respectful. 

What Did AR Rahman Say?

AR Rahman was asked if he had ever encountered discrimination in Bollywood as a Tamil composer during an interview with BBC Asian Network. He said his work in the Hindi cinema industry has slowed down recently. The composer attributed this development to 'shifting power dynamics' over the past eight years, as well as what he called 'a communal bias'.

AR Rahman claimed that he frequently gets the reasons indirectly. "It comes to me as Chinese whispers," he shared.

The singer said, "Maybe I never got to know of this, maybe it was concealed by God, but I didn’t feel any of this. 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."


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