• Source:JND
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Renowned music composer AR Rahman has come under scrutiny for his rendition of a beloved patriotic anthem by the esteemed Bengali poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. This rendition features in the latest Bollywood film, 'Pippa', directed by Raja Menon and starring Ishaan Khatter and Mrunal Thakur.

The spotlight is on 'Karar oi louho kopat' (Iron bars of a jail), included in the war film 'Pippa'. Family members of the late poet have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the song.

Kazi Anirban, the grandson of Islam, conveyed his surprise regarding the alterations made to the song. According to a report in India Today, he said, "The way the song has been dished out with the change in rhythm and tunes is shocking. My mother, when she was alive, used to look after the legalities of contracts. I have to check that once, as she is not alive anymore. I will have to check what is in the contract and then speak to my family members, and take the next step."

 
 
 
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He added, "The song was rendered with a background of fighting the British. It inspired freedom fighters. I don't know why Rahman sir did this, it's injustice. I appeal that this song is dropped. He (Rahman) didn't understand either the lyrics or the background of the song."

For those unfamiliar, Kazi Nazrul Islam, often referred to as Nazrul, was a revered Bengali poet, writer, and musician, acclaimed as the national poet of Bangladesh. Renowned as one of the most eminent figures in Bengali literature, Nazrul crafted a vast collection of poetry, music, essays, novels, and tales. His works encompassed themes of equality, justice, anti-imperialism, humanity, resistance against oppression, and religious devotion.

 
 
 
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Speaking of 'Pippa', the movie is a production of RSVP Movies and Roy Kapur Films, with Ronnie Screwvala and Siddharth Roy Kapur fulfilling their roles as producers. Additionally, it features Soni Razdan in the cast. The film made its debut on Amazon Prime Video on November 10, 2023.