Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman has found himself at the centre of a social media firestorm after remarks he made in a recent interview about shifting power dynamics in Bollywood and possible “communal” bias. As criticism intensified, Rahman’s daughters, Khatija Rahman and Raheema Rahman, publicly stepped in to defend their father, urging critics to disagree without crossing into personal attacks.
What sparked the controversy
In an interview with the BBC, Rahman spoke candidly about getting fewer work offers in Hindi cinema in recent years. He linked it to a “power shift” in the industry and added that it might also be connected to a “communal thing,” clarifying that this was based on what he described as “Chinese whispers” over the past eight years.
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The comments quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions. While some supported Rahman’s honesty, others accused him of playing the victim card or reading bias where none existed.
Daughters share strong note of support
As the backlash grew louder, Khatija and Raheema reshared a post by Malayalam composer Kailas Menon on their Instagram Stories. Titled Disagree, don’t disgrace, the note firmly defended Rahman’s right to speak about his own experiences.
Menon wrote that disagreeing with Rahman is fair, but personal attacks are not. He criticised those questioning the composer’s faith, mocking his recent work, or branding him a “disgrace,” calling such reactions “hate speech presented as opinion.”
Khatija reacted to the post with clapping, fire, hundred and heart emojis—an unmistakable show of support. Raheema echoed the sentiment by sharing the same note. Rahman’s son, AR Ameen, has not commented publicly so far.
‘Criticism is fine, humiliation is not’
Menon’s message also highlighted Rahman’s decades-long contribution to Indian and global music, arguing that a lifetime of work cannot be dismissed over one personal viewpoint. “Freedom of speech applies to Rahman as much as it applies to his critics,” the note said, adding that outrage without respect says more about society than about the artist.
Rahman responds with video clarification
With the debate refusing to die down, Rahman released a video statement to clarify his intent. Stressing his bond with the country, he said India has always been his inspiration and home, and that his purpose has consistently been to uplift and serve through music.
He acknowledged that intentions can be misunderstood and said he never meant to cause hurt. Rahman also underlined his belief in India’s multicultural fabric and freedom of expression.
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Looking ahead
In the same message, Rahman mentioned his upcoming project—composing music alongside Hans Zimmer for filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari’s two-part adaptation of Ramayana—a reminder that his career continues to move forward despite the noise.
For now, the episode has reopened a larger conversation about disagreement, respect, and how public figures are treated online—something Rahman’s daughters summed up neatly without saying a word of their own.
