AR Rahman ‘Communal’ Remark Controversy: Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has found himself at the centre of a controversy after suggesting that a possible “communal” factor may be one of the reasons behind the slowdown of his work in Bollywood in recent years. His comments have triggered strong reactions from several well-known figures in the industry, including Shobhaa De, Shaan, Javed Akhtar, Hariharan and Leslie Lewis.
What Did AR Rahman Say About Losing Work In Bollywood?
AR Rahman made the remarks during a recent interview with BBC Asian Network, where he spoke about how his work in Hindi cinema has reduced over the last eight years. He said, “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. It comes to me as Chinese whispers that they booked you but the music company went ahead and hired their five composers.” Rahman further added, “I say good, I have more time to chill with my family. I am not in search of work. I don’t want to go in search of work. I want work to come to me; my sincerity to earn work. Whatever I deserve, I get.”
Check Celebrities Reaction On AR Rahman’s Communal Remark
Author and columnist Shobhaa De strongly criticised Rahman’s statement while speaking at the Jaipur Literature Festival 2026. She defended Bollywood and rejected the idea of communal bias within the industry. She said, “This is a very dangerous comment. I don't know why he's made it; you should ask him.” Drawing from her long association with the film world, De added, “I've been watching Bollywood for 50 years. And if I've seen any place which is free of any kind of communal tension, it is Bollywood. If you have talent, you will get a chance. If you don't have talent, there's no question of religion being a factor.” She concluded by saying, “He's such a successful man, he's such a mature man. He should not have said it, maybe he has his reasons, you will have to ask him.”
Singer Shaan also disagreed with Rahman’s suggestion and denied the presence of any communal bias in music. He told IANS, “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.” He further said, “Whatever work you get, do it well… I don't think there is any communal minority angle. Whatever you are saying, it doesn't happen in music.”
Veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar also shared his views, saying he has never experienced such bias in the industry. He stated, “I have never felt this way. I meet people here in Mumbai. They have great respect for him. Rahman is such a big man.” Akhtar added, “I don't think there is any communal element in this.”
As of now, AR Rahman has not responded to the reactions or clarified his remarks further.