- By Shibra Arshad
- Sun, 18 Jan 2026 05:56 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
AR Rahman Controversy: After music maestro AR Rahman shared his concern about growing ‘communalism’ in the country, and lyricist Javed Akhtar dismissed his remarks, former Chief Minister of Jammu Kashmir has defended the composer and lashed out at Javed Akhtar for denying ‘lived reality’.
“When Javed Akhtar dismisses AR Rahman’s concerns about the growing communalisation of Bollywood he contradicts lived & shared realities of Indian Muslims including those of his own wife Shabana Azmi, who has openly spoken about being denied housing for being Muslim in a cosmopolitan city like Bombay. Bollywood has always been a living mini India mirroring the country’s social realities. Brushing aside such experiences does not change the truth about today’s India (sic),” Mehbooba said in a post on X.
ALSO READ: AR Rahman Communal Bias Remarks: Paresh Rawal Backs Music Maestro; Calls Him ‘Our Pride’
Rahman’s comment about growing ‘communalism’ and its impact on his work has stirred massive debate with several celebrities defending him, while others reacting strongly.
Reacting to Rahman’s comment, Javed, in an interview with India Today, said, "I don't agree with that, and I also doubt that he would ever say something like this. Rahman is a great composer, and a lot of people respect him. But they are scared to reach him because he is so big. They are scared to talk to him and handle him.
On the other hand, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy dismissed Rahman’s observations as false and unfortunate. “AR Rahman’s comment today that he is not getting support in the film music industry because of being Muslim is absolutely false. The country has supported and received him as the number one music director in the country,” ANI quoted Reddy as saying.
What Is AR Rahman's 'Communalism' Controversy
During an interview with BBC Asian Network, Oscar-winning composer Rahman was asked if he thinks there is bias in Bollywood, especially towards people from the Tamil community or those from outside Maharashtra. Answering the question, Rahman said he personally did not face anything of that sort, but he has been getting fewer opportunities in the industry, and it could be due to a communal thing.
He said, “Maybe I never got to know about this. Maybe it was concealed, but I didn’t feel any of this. Maybe in the past eight years, 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.”
Talking about losing work opportunities, Rahman added, “It comes to me as Chinese whispers that they booked you, but the music company went ahead and hired their 5 composers. I say good, I have more time to chill with my family. I am not in search for work. I don’t want to go in search for work. I want work to come to me; my sincerity to earn work. Whatever I deserve, I get.”
Rahman Reacts As Row Rages
As the row over his remark grew bigger, the composer, who has played a defining role in Bollywood, broke his silence and affirmed his love for India. In a video message shared on his Instagram handle, Rahman said that he never intended to cause pain to anyone and has always strived to serve the country through music.
“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,” he said and ended the video with footage of his song Maa Tujhe Salaam/Vande Mataram being played during a cricket match.