AR Rahman addresses the controversy around his communal remark, saying his words were misunderstood and never meant to hurt anyone. The music maestro reaffirms his deep bond with India and his commitment to creating music that unites cultures.
Image Source: Instagram
For the past few days, social media has been buzzing, timelines have been heated, and group chats haven’t stopped talking. At the centre of it all is none other than Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman. He has finally spoken up after facing heavy backlash over his remarks about “communal” bias in the Hindi film industry.
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After being criticised from multiple corners, Rahman took to Instagram to share a calm, emotional video message. No drama. No anger. Just clarity.
In the video, Rahman reminded everyone that India is not just his country, but his teacher and inspiration. He made it clear that hurting sentiments was never his intention.
“Music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating and honouring a culture,” Rahman said adding that misunderstandings can happen, but his purpose has always been positive.
Rahman said he feels blessed to be an Indian, especially in a country that allows freedom of expression and celebrates many cultures.
He also shared that India has given him the space to create, experiment, and grow, something he deeply values as an artist.
“I have never wished to cause pain,” Rahman said.
Looking back at his work, Rahman reflected on several meaningful projects that shaped him.
He spoke about Jala, presented at the Wave Summit in front of the Prime Minister; Ruhi Noor, a spiritual music journey; collaborating with young Naga musicians to build a string orchestra, mentoring the Sunshine Orchestra, which supports underprivileged children; creating Secret Mountain, India’s first multicultural virtual band; scoring Ramayana alongside international composer Hans Zimmer.
According to Rahman, each of these experiences strengthened his purpose and love for music.
Towards the end of his message, Rahman thanked India once again and promised to keep creating music that honours the past, celebrates the present, and inspires the future.
The controversy began after Rahman spoke to BBC Asian Network, where he mentioned getting fewer work offers in Bollywood.
He explained that decision-making power now lies with people who may not be creative. He also hinted that communal factors ‘might’ play a role though not directly.
Rahman shared that he often hears through “Chinese whispers” that projects were planned with him but later handed to multiple other composers. His reaction? Calm acceptance.
“Oh, that’s great,” he said, adding that it gives him time to relax with his family.
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