Imtiaz Ali Announces New Film Collaboration with AR Rahman Amidst Controversy Support
Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has officially announced his latest cinematic venture, featuring music by the legendary composer AR Rahman. This announcement comes shortly after Ali publicly supported Rahman during a recent controversy surrounding the musician's comments about communal bias in the Hindi film industry.
Film Details and Release Date
The untitled film, described as a "charming story of love and longing", is scheduled for release on June 12, 2026. Originally planned for an April release, the project has been postponed to this new date. The movie boasts an impressive ensemble cast including:
- Diljit Dosanjh in a leading role
- Vedang Raina
- Sharvari
- Naseeruddin Shah
This marks Imtiaz Ali's second collaboration with Diljit Dosanjh, following their successful partnership in the 2024 Netflix film Amar Singh Chamkila, which received widespread critical and audience acclaim.
Production and Creative Team
The film is a joint production between Applause Entertainment and Window Seat Films, with Mohit Choudhary also serving as producer. The creative team includes:
- Direction by Imtiaz Ali
- Music composition by AR Rahman
- Lyrics by Irshad Kamil
In an official statement, Imtiaz Ali described the project as having "a big heart" and being "a story of a boy and a girl, but also a country", suggesting the film will explore both personal relationships and broader national themes.
Background: The AR Rahman Controversy
The announcement follows a period of controversy sparked by AR Rahman's comments during an interview with BBC Asian Network. The Oscar-winning composer suggested that "a power shift has happened" in Bollywood over the past eight years, and that "it might be a communal thing also" when discussing why he might be receiving less work in the Hindi film industry.
Despite Rahman issuing clarifications on social media, several celebrities criticized his remarks. However, Imtiaz Ali emerged as one of his most vocal supporters during this period.
Imtiaz Ali's Support for AR Rahman
In an interview with India Today, Imtiaz Ali addressed the controversy directly. While acknowledging that he personally hasn't experienced communal bias in his long career in the film industry, Ali defended Rahman, stating:
"I do not actually believe that he made all the comments that are being attributed to him, or maybe it's been misconstrued. In fact, I know that he did not say exactly what is being perceived."
The filmmaker added that he couldn't recall "a single incident where there was any communal bias or animosity" in the industry, while simultaneously praising Rahman as "one of the brightest figures" he's encountered in Bollywood.
Previous Collaborations and Industry Support
AR Rahman and Imtiaz Ali have a history of successful collaborations, including critically acclaimed films such as:
- Rockstar
- Highway
- Tamasha
- Amar Singh Chamkila
During the controversy, several other industry figures joined Imtiaz Ali in supporting Rahman, including actors Paresh Rawal and Rahul Dholakia, lyricist Varun Grover, and singer Chinmayi Sripaada.
The Film's Significance and Anticipation
This new project represents not just another collaboration between two of Indian cinema's most respected creative forces, but also a public demonstration of professional solidarity during a challenging period. The film's delayed release to June 2026 suggests careful planning to ensure optimal presentation of what promises to be a significant cinematic experience.
With its blend of established talent and emerging stars, combined with the proven creative synergy between Imtiaz Ali and AR Rahman, this untitled film is already generating considerable anticipation within the industry and among cinema enthusiasts nationwide.
