Anup Jalota’s Remark Sparks Fresh Storm Over AR Rahman’s Communal Bias Claim

After Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman spoke about a possible power shift and communal bias affecting his work opportunities, veteran singer Anup Jalota has triggered fresh controversy with a remark that has sharply divided public opinion. The debate, already fuelled by strong reactions from several film personalities, has now expanded into a wider conversation about faith, creative freedom, and the nature of opportunities in the Indian film industry.

Anup Jalota’s Video Statement Draws Sharp Attention

In a video statement delivered in Hindi, Anup Jalota reacted directly to Rahman’s recent comments and made a suggestion that many found provocative. Jalota said, “Music director AR Rahman was originally Hindu and later converted to Islam. After that, he worked extensively, gained fame, and received immense love. But if he still feels that he is not getting enough work in our country because of his religion, then he should consider becoming a Hindu again. He should have the confidence that once he returns to Hinduism, he will start getting work. That is what I understood from his interview. So I strongly suggest that he convert back to Hinduism and see whether he gets work again.”

The statement quickly went viral, adding another layer to an already heated discussion surrounding Rahman’s remarks on discrimination and power dynamics within the industry.

What Sparked The Controversy

The issue began after AR Rahman spoke to BBC Asian Network, where he reflected on his reduced presence in films over the past eight years. He linked this to a shift in influence within the industry and hinted that religion could also be a factor. He said, “Maybe in the past eight years, 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. It comes to me as Chinese whispers that they booked you, but the music company went ahead and hired their five composers. I said, ‘Oh, that’s great. Rest for me. I can chill out with my family.’”

These comments immediately drew reactions from several prominent voices, turning a personal observation into a public debate.

Film Industry Reactions Continue To Pour In

Before Jalota’s remarks, actor Kangana Ranaut had criticised Rahman, accusing him of being “blinded” by “hate”. Playback singer Shaan also responded, stating that artists not receiving work at certain times has nothing to do with religion and is part of the industry’s natural cycles.

Rahman further drew attention during the same interview by describing Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava as a divisive film. He said, “It is a divisive film. I think it cashed in on divisiveness, but the core of it is to show bravery. I had asked the director, ‘Why did he need me for this film?’ But he said that they needed only me. It is an enjoyable film, but people are smarter than that. Do you think people are going to get influenced by movies? They have an internal conscience that knows what is truth and what is manipulation.”

Rahman’s Daughter Speaks Out

As the backlash intensified, Rahman’s daughter Raheema shared a strong message on social media, urging people to focus on humanity over hostility. She wrote, “They don’t have time to read the Bhagavad Gita, the Qur’an or the Bible — the sacred words that teach love, peace, discipline, and truth. But they have all the time in the world to argue, mock, provoke, abuse, and disrespect each other.”

She added, “This isn’t religion. This is what blind society, half-baked education, toxic politics, and broken parenting have created — a generation more loyal to hate than to humanity.”

AR Rahman Clarifies His Position

Following days of debate, AR Rahman released a video statement to clarify his intent. He said, “India is my inspiration, my teacher, and my home. 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. I feel blessed to be Indian, which enables me to create in a space that allows freedom of expression and celebrates multicultural voices.”

He concluded by saying, “I remain grateful to this nation and committed to music that honours the past, celebrates the present, and inspires the future. Jai Hind and Jai Ho.”

Rahman’s Recent Body Of Work

Despite claims of reduced opportunities, AR Rahman has remained active across multiple languages and platforms. Over the past eight years, his projects have included Mom, 2.0, Bigil, Dil Bechara, Ponniyin Selvan Part 1 and 2, Atrangi Re, Mili, Pippa, Chamkila, Tere Ishk Mein, and Animal alongside other composers. He is currently preparing for the ambitious Ramayana project, where he will collaborate with Hans Zimmer.

The episode has left the industry and audiences grappling with complex questions about creativity, belief, and the evolving power structures within Indian cinema.