Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman, who has faced intense scrutiny over his recent remarks on Chhaava and communalism in Bollywood, has indicated that he is ready to move past the controversy. The musician addressed the issue during an interaction with Noise and Grains, the organisers of his upcoming Wonderment Tour in Chennai, and suggested that explanations often fall on deaf ears.When singer-comedian Alexander Babu asked Rahman about the statement he released clarifying his position, the composer responded cryptically, saying, “See, in life you have to prepare. And we have to prepare for everything.” He then smiled and urged the conversation to move on, adding that “we all know.”
‘When you explain, they won’t listen’
Alexander admitted he felt “a little sad” that Rahman had to spell out his achievements and love for the country in the statement. Responding to this, Rahman remarked, “But you know what, it’s better we move on with something else because people who know you don’t need an explanation. And when you explain, they won’t listen to you, those who don’t…” he said, chuckling.
‘It might be a communal thing also’
In a separate interview with BBC Asian Network, Rahman was asked if he had ever experienced prejudice in Bollywood as a Tamil composer. He replied, “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.”
During the interview, Rahman also criticised Chhaava, accusing the film of cashing in on “divisiveness,” a comment that triggered backlash across social media.
Rahman’s clarification
Following the outrage, the Oscar-winning composer released a video statement reiterating his intentions. He said, “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.”
