AR Rahman Breaks Silence on Chhaava's Polarizing Impact
Vicky Kaushal's historical epic Chhaava dominated the box office for most of 2025. The film enjoyed massive commercial success before Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar finally surpassed its record in December. However, the movie's triumph came with significant controversy.
Historical Drama Sparks Widespread Debate
The film's portrayal of Maratha icon Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Mughal ruler Aurangzeb ignited heated discussions across India. Chhaava became a cultural flashpoint in Maharashtra, with reports of unrest emerging from several areas including Nagpur.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis later connected the violence to public anger over Aurangzeb's depiction in the film. Against this backdrop, composer AR Rahman has now spoken openly about the controversy that surrounded his musical work.
Rahman Reflects on Artistic Responsibility
In a recent interview with BBC Asian Network, Rahman reflected on creating art in today's polarized climate. He addressed the responsibility artists carry in such times.
"That's the reason God is giving more power to people like us," Rahman said. "So that we can replace the bad with good by word, action, art."
When questioned about whether such divisions influence his project choices, Rahman drew a clear line regarding intent. "Some films are made with a bad intention. I try to avoid those movies," he stated firmly.
Candid Admission About Chhaava's Nature
Addressing his earlier comments about taking pride in Chhaava's music despite backlash, Rahman offered a candid assessment. "It is a divisive film," he admitted. "I think it cashed in on divisiveness, but I think the core of it is to show bravery."
The composer revealed he had questioned his own involvement in the project. "I had asked the director, 'Why did he need me for this film?'" Rahman recalled. "But he said that we need only you for this."
Faith in Audience Discernment
Despite acknowledging the film's polarizing nature, Rahman expressed strong faith in audiences. "It is an enjoyable film, but definitely people are smarter than that," he asserted.
"Do you think people are going to get influenced by movies?" Rahman questioned. "They have something called internal conscience, which knows what the truth is and what manipulation is."
Honor in Portraying Sambhaji Maharaj
Rahman emphasized the honor he felt in being associated with a film centered on Sambhaji Maharaj. "Chhaava is the most celebrated character," he said. "It is like the blood of every Maratha."
He also spoke about the film's emotional impact, particularly highlighting a poignant moment. "Once the film finishes, you see the girl saying the beautiful poetry. It's very moving," Rahman described. "I'm so honoured to have scored that full movie, which has the pulse and soul of every Maratha."
Conclusion: Belief in Human Conscience
Summing up his perspective, Rahman concluded with optimism about human nature. "I have great respect for people," he stated. "They are not that foolish to get influenced by false information. I have great faith in humanity. People have a conscience, heart, love and compassion."
The composer's reflections come as Chhaava continues to be discussed not just as a box office success, but as a cultural phenomenon that sparked important conversations about historical representation in Indian cinema.
