AR Rahman’s recent comments on the Hindi film industry becoming ‘communal’ has sparked a debate and several industry insiders have commented on it. Meanwhile, he also called ‘Chhaava’ divisive. He said that while the film cashed in on divisiveness, the core of it was to show bravery which is why he decided to do it. The composer further had also said that he feels honoured to score for a film based on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. As the Oscar winning composers comments have gone viral, many celebs like Javed Akhtar, Shobhaa De, Shaan have reacted to it. Kangana Ranaut also has now taken to social media and revealed that Rahman refused to be a part of her directorial ‘Emergency’ calling it a ‘propaganda’ film. The actor turned director shared a screenshot of Rahman from his interview with BBC Asian Network and she wrote, “Dear @arrahman ji, I face so much prejudice and partiality in the film industry because I support a saffron party yet I must say I have not come across a man more prejudiced and hateful than you.”She said further, “I desperately wanted to narrate my directorial Emergency to you. Forget narration, you even refused to meet me. I was told you don’t want to be part of a propaganda film. Ironically, Emergency was called a masterpiece by all critics. Even opposition party leaders sent me fan leaders appreciating the film for its balanced and compassionate approach but you are blinded by your hate. I feel sorry for you #emergency.”
For those not in the know, here’s what Rahman had said in the interview. Rahman was asked if there is bias in the Hindi Film Industry, especially towards people from the Tamil community or those outside Maharashtra. While Rahman said that he did not personally face discrimination, he hinted perhaps the changing power structures within the industry could be the reason for it. 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. 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.”
