The debate around alleged communal bias in Bollywood has intensified after A. R. Rahman suggested that he may have lost projects due to shifting power structures and possible prejudice. His comments, made during an interaction with BBC Asian Network, have drawn mixed reactions from within the film fraternity.
Responding strongly, music director Ismail Darbar dismissed the claim, asserting that the Hindi film industry has historically celebrated talent irrespective of faith. Speaking on Subhojit Ghosh’s YouTube channel, Darbar argued that if communalism truly dictated success, several iconic Muslim artists would never have risen to prominence. He cited veterans such as Naushad and legendary actor Dilip Kumar as examples of artists who flourished purely on merit.
Darbar further remarked that professional growth is shaped by skill and destiny. While acknowledging Rahman’s technical brilliance in sound design, he controversially stated that the composer does not always create “good songs,” adding that Rahman has already achieved immense success and recognition.
Rahman, on his part, had reflected that he did not directly experience discrimination earlier in his career. However, he hinted that in the last eight years, changing dynamics in the industry may have affected opportunities. He also criticised the film Chhaava, accusing it of benefiting from divisive narratives.As reactions continue to pour in, the exchange has sparked a wider conversation on merit, politics and creative freedom in Bollywood.
