AR Rahman's 'Divisive' Label for Chhaava Ignites Widespread Debate
Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has stirred significant controversy with his recent remarks about the Hindi film Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal. In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Rahman described the movie as 'divisive', stating it capitalizes on divisive sentiments. His comments have rapidly spread across social media platforms, eliciting a spectrum of reactions from both celebrities and the general public.
Rahman's Candid Critique of Chhaava
During the interview, Rahman did not hold back his thoughts on Chhaava. He openly called the film divisive, suggesting it profits from societal divisions. "It is a divisive film. I think it cashed in on divisiveness, but I think the core of it is to show bravery," Rahman explained. He also revealed his initial hesitation about joining the project, questioning why the director specifically wanted him. The director insisted, "We need only you for this." Rahman acknowledged the film's entertainment value but expressed confidence in the audience's discernment. "People are smarter than that. Do you think people are going to get influenced by movies? They have something called internal conscience, which knows what the truth is, and what manipulation is."
Addressing Specific Scenes in Chhaava
Rahman further criticized certain scenes in Chhaava that incorporate Islamic phrases like 'Subhanallah' and 'Alhamdulillah' during negative events. He labeled these elements as clichéd and cringe-worthy. "That is such a cliche. It is cringe. I have great respect for people. 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," he asserted, reinforcing his belief in the public's ability to distinguish truth from manipulation.
Netizens and Celebrities React Strongly
The composer's statements have triggered a flood of responses on social media, with opinions sharply divided. One user on X expressed personal disappointment, writing, "I have never seen A.R. Rahman through a religious lens, only as an artist. I’ve loved his music, attended his concerts, celebrated his genius. That’s why what he said about Chhaava feels like a personal betrayal, not a casual disagreement."
Another critic questioned Rahman's involvement in the film, posting, "'Chhaava' is a divisive film and it cashed on divisiveness says A.R. Rahman. He could have just rejected the film if he felt so, but no money is important at the end of the day. He is now working on music for the film 'Ramayana' wonder why?"
Supporters, however, praised Rahman for his honesty. One comment read, "Chaava was definitely a communal film, it cashed on divisiveness and Muslims being painted in a negative impression in the movie was such a cliche. He goes on calling it an attempt to manipulate people. Finally a celeb with a spine."
Conversely, others defended the film's historical portrayal. A user argued, "Calling Chhaava 'divisive' is peak hypocrisy. It’s straight history exposing Aurangzeb’s genocide. Showing facts isn’t divisive, hiding them is." Another added, "History was more barbaric than it was shown in that film, portraying Aurangzeb as he was, showing the valor and suffering of Sambhaji Maharaj felt Divisive to Mr. AR Rahman. These people like glorified portrayals of Mughal kings like shown in Jodha Akhbar!"
A more philosophical take emerged with the statement, "A society that cannot distinguish between hatred and historical recall will keep mistaking truth for tension and forgetting for peace." As of now, AR Rahman has not responded to these online reactions, leaving the debate to continue unabated.
