AR Rahman's Comments on Bollywood Work Trigger Industry Debate
Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman recently made headlines with his remarks about receiving less work from Bollywood. He suggested that a "power shift" and possible communal reasons might explain the situation. His comments have ignited a fiery debate across the entertainment industry.
What Exactly Did AR Rahman Say?
In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Rahman discussed his changing relationship with the Hindi film industry. He noted that work offers have slowed down significantly over the past eight years. When asked about potential prejudice in the 1990s, including discrimination against the Tamil community, Rahman said he never felt any discrimination at that time.
"Maybe I never got to know of this, maybe it was concealed by God, but I didn't feel any of this," Rahman stated.
He then pointed to recent changes. "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," Rahman explained.
The composer shared specific experiences. "It comes to me as Chinese whispers that they booked you but the music company went ahead and hired their five composers."
Rahman maintained a philosophical outlook. "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."
Shobhaa De Calls Rahman's Statement 'Dangerous'
Author Shobhaa De strongly criticized Rahman's comments during the Jaipur Literature Festival 2026. She expressed her views while discussing her new book.
"This is a very dangerous comment. I don't know why he's made it; you should ask him," De said according to ANI reports.
She defended Bollywood's record. "But 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."
De emphasized talent over religion. "If you have talent, you will get a chance. If you don't have talent, there's no question of religion being a factor, that they're not giving you a chance."
She expressed disappointment in Rahman. "So, what he's 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."
Hariharan and Leslie Lewis Weigh In
Singer Hariharan described Rahman's remarks as entering a "grey area." He shared his perspective on the industry's current state.
"I really wish there were more creative people, or at least people who genuinely understand music, taking these calls," Hariharan told NDTV.
He emphasized artistic values. "You have to think about creativity first and money later. If you only think of money when it comes to art, then who knows what the future will be."
Composer and singer Leslie Lewis agreed with Rahman's observation about a power shift. "There has been a shift in the music industry itself," Lewis stated.
He explained the transformation. "It's not just the old players anymore. New people with new thoughts have come in, and digital platforms have changed the parameters completely."
Lewis contrasted past and present decision-making. "Earlier, the people judging us had experience and creative instinct. Today, it's very corporate. The person taking the call is often making sure their job is secure. They may love music, but they don't always have the experience to decide who the right artist is."
The Ongoing Conversation
The debate continues to unfold across social media and industry circles. Rahman's comments have touched a nerve, raising questions about:
- Changing power dynamics in Bollywood
- The role of creativity versus commerce
- Potential biases in the entertainment industry
- The impact of digital platforms on traditional film music
AR Rahman has not yet responded to the reactions from his peers. The discussion highlights deeper conversations about inclusion, creativity, and transformation within India's massive film industry. Many observers await further developments as more industry voices likely join the conversation in coming days.
The controversy comes at a time when Bollywood continues to evolve rapidly. Streaming platforms, changing audience preferences, and new business models are reshaping how music gets created and distributed. Rahman's remarks have brought these underlying tensions to the surface in a very public way.
