AR Rahman Addresses Backlash Over Recent Interview Remarks
Famous music composer AR Rahman posted a video on his social media accounts this Sunday. He directly addressed the strong negative reactions following his comments in a recent interview. Rahman stated that intentions can sometimes be misunderstood by people. He made it clear he did not wish to cause any pain with his words.
Rahman's Social Media Statement
The Oscar-winning composer, known for iconic soundtracks in films like Roja, Bombay, and Dil Se.., shared his thoughts on Instagram. In the video, the 59-year-old artist explained his position. He emphasized that music has always been his method to connect with people, celebrate life, and honor India's rich cultural heritage.
"India is my inspiration, my teacher, and my home," Rahman said in the video. "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 expressed feeling blessed to be Indian. This identity, he noted, enables him to create a space that always allows freedom of expression. It also celebrates multicultural voices from across the nation.
Highlighting His Musical Journey
Rahman listed several projects that strengthened his artistic purpose. He mentioned nurturing Jhalaa, which was presented at the WAVES summit in front of the Prime Minister. He spoke about Rooh-e-Noor and collaborating with young Naga musicians. The composer also referenced creating a string orchestra and mentoring the Sunshine Orchestra.
Furthermore, he highlighted building Secret Mountain, described as India's first multicultural virtual band. Rahman also mentioned the honor of scoring Ramayana alongside legendary composer Hans Zimmer. Each of these journeys, he stated, reinforced his commitment to music and culture.
Understanding the Controversy
AR Rahman's comments come just days after his interview with BBC Asian Network. During that conversation, he noted how less work has been coming to him recently. He attributed this shift to a change in power dynamics within the Hindi film industry over the last few years.
Rahman suggested the situation could also be related to what he called the "communal thing." He explained his approach to work in the interview.
"I'm not in search of work. I want work to come to me; the sincerity of my work to earn things," Rahman told the BBC. "I feel it's a jinx when I go on in search of things... People who are not creative have the power now to decide things and this might have been a communal thing also but not in my face."
He shared that he sometimes hears through indirect channels that he was considered for projects. However, music companies ultimately hired other composers instead. Rahman's response to such situations was philosophical.
"I said, 'Oh that's great, rest for me, I can chill out with my family,'" he remarked in the interview. Now, through his social media video, Rahman seeks to clarify his stance and reassure his audience about his intentions and his deep connection to India.
