Oscar and Grammy-winning composer A.R. Rahman made his second public appearance on Monday at a musical concert for the film Gandhi Talks. Accompanied by performers like Shraddha Arya and Mahira Khan, Rahman graced the red carpet but notably refrained from taking questions from the press, opting only to pose for the cameras. This cautious public return follows a significant controversy triggered by his recent comments regarding the “communal” and political shifts within the Hindi film industry, which he claimed had limited his opportunities over the last eight years.
The controversy began when Rahman told the BBC Asian Network that religious and regional power dynamics in Bollywood might be influencing work offers. The remarks drew sharp criticism from sections of the media and the public, with many viewing them as an allegation of discrimination. In response to the backlash, Rahman issued a heartfelt video clarification on Instagram, stating that his words were misunderstood. He emphasized that he “never meant to hurt anyone” and reaffirmed his deep connection to the country, calling India his “inspiration, teacher, and home.”
Despite the friction, Rahman continues to lead several prestigious cultural projects. In his clarification, he highlighted his recent work, including the Sunshine Orchestra, the multicultural virtual band Secret Mountain, and his much-anticipated collaboration with Hans Zimmer for the film Ramayana. Rahman maintained that his life’s purpose remains rooted in using music to unify and serve, hoping that his sincerity would be felt by those who felt pained by his previous statements.
