Mehbooba Mufti Defends AR Rahman's Communalism Claim in Bollywood
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has strongly supported music composer AR Rahman's recent statement about facing reduced work opportunities in Bollywood due to communal factors. Mufti described Rahman's observation as the "truth of India" in a post on social media platform X.
Rahman's Interview Sparks Controversy
AR Rahman made his comments during an interview with BBC Asian Network. The Oscar-winning composer revealed he receives fewer projects in the Indian film industry now. Rahman suggested this decline might stem from communal considerations behind the scenes.
"I feel it's a communal thing," Rahman stated. He explained that non-creative individuals currently hold decision-making power in music companies. These people sometimes choose other composers over him based on whispers and preferences that appear biased.
Rahman emphasized he does not actively seek work. Instead, he prefers projects to come to him based on his artistic merit. The composer expressed contentment with having more family time despite the professional slowdown.
Mufti's Strong Response on Social Media
Mehbooba Mufti responded directly to Rahman's interview. She wrote that Bollywood has traditionally reflected India's diverse social fabric. Dismissing experiences like Rahman's does not alter the current national reality, according to Mufti.
"Bollywood has always been a living mini India, mirroring the country's social realities," Mufti posted. "Brushing aside such experiences does not change the truth about today's India."
Clash with Javed Akhtar's Viewpoint
Lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar previously contradicted Rahman's perspective. Akhtar stated he never felt such communalism in the industry. He mentioned meeting people in Mumbai who hold great respect for Rahman.
Mufti challenged Akhtar's position forcefully. She argued that Akhtar contradicts the lived experiences of Indian Muslims by dismissing Rahman's concerns. This includes the experiences of Akhtar's own wife, veteran actress Shabana Azmi.
"When Javed Akhtar dismisses AR Rahman's concerns about the growing communalisation of Bollywood, he contradicts the lived and shared realities of Indian Muslims," Mufti wrote.
Reference to Shabana Azmi's Experience
Mufti specifically highlighted Shabana Azmi's past statements about facing discrimination. Azmi has openly discussed being denied housing in Mumbai because of her Muslim identity.
"This includes those of his own wife, Shabana Azmi, who has openly spoken about being denied housing for being Muslim in a cosmopolitan city like Bombay," Mufti added in her post.
Akhtar's Alternative Explanation
Javed Akhtar offered a different reason for Rahman's reduced Bollywood visibility. He suggested people might assume Rahman is too busy with international commitments.
"People may think that he has become very busy in the West," Akhtar said. "They may think his shows are very big. He spends a lot of time in those shows. So, he may not be available for us."
This exchange between prominent figures has ignited fresh debate about inclusion and representation in India's entertainment industry. The discussion touches on broader questions of social dynamics affecting creative professionals.
