Director Imtiaz Ali, who has collaborated with AR Rahman on films like Chamkila and Rockstar, has come out in support of the musician. The Oscar-winning composer has been making headlines for his remarks hinting at communal bias. The filmmaker said that Rahman’s statement may have been misconstrued, while stressing that there is no communal bias in the film industry.
Imtiaz Ali defends AR Rahman
In an interview with India Today, Imtiaz defended the musician and said, “No, I don’t think there is a communal bias in the film industry. I’ve been here for a long time, and I’ve never seen it, and AR Rahman is one of the brightest figures that I’ve met in the film industry.”
“I do not actually believe that he made all the comments that are being attributed to him, or maybe it’s been misconstrued. In fact, I know that he did not say exactly what is being perceived. Also, I don’t remember a single incident where there was any communal bias or animosity,” he added.
AR Rahman clarifies his remarks
In an interview with the BBC, Rahman had said that his work in the industry has reduced and attributed it to a power shift, while also hinting at communal bias. The remarks sparked a debate online and across entertainment circles, with critics questioning the basis of Rahman’s observation. Following this, the composer issued a clarification, stating that his comments were misunderstood and that he never intended to “cause pain.”
Rahman took to Instagram to share a video statement. He began by calling India his teacher and home, saying, “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.”
He further cited examples of how he has strived to use music to uplift India, saying, “I feel blessed to be Indian, which enables me to create a space that always allows freedom of expression and celebrates multicultural voices. From nurturing Jhalaa, presented at the WAVES summit in front of the Honourable Prime Minister, and Rooh-e-Noor, to collaborating with young Naga musicians, creating a string orchestra, mentoring the Sunshine Orchestra, building Secret Mountain, India’s first multicultural virtual band, and the honour of scoring Ramayana alongside Hans Zimmer—each journey has strengthened my purpose.”
He concluded by saying, “I remain grateful to this nation and committed to music that honours the past,” and ended the video with footage of his song Maa Tujhe Salaam/Vande Mataram being played during a cricket match, with a stadium full of people singing along.
