Imtiaz Ali Stands by AR Rahman, Claims Comments Were Misunderstood
Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has publicly defended composer AR Rahman. He stated that Rahman's recent remarks about the Hindi film industry were misconstrued. Ali emphasized that he has never observed any communal bias during his long career in Bollywood.
Ali Denies Existence of Communal Prejudice in Film Industry
In an interview with India Today, Imtiaz Ali shared his perspective. He said he does not believe there is a communal bias in the film industry. Ali explained that he has worked in Bollywood for many years and has never witnessed such discrimination.
"No, I don't think there is a communal bias in the film industry," Ali stated. "I've been here for a long time, and I've never seen it." He described AR Rahman as one of the brightest figures he has met in the industry.
Rahman's Controversial Comments Spark Debate
AR Rahman recently spoke with BBC Asian Network. He discussed a perceived power shift in the Hindi film industry over the past eight years. Rahman suggested this shift might involve communal elements, though he noted no one has directly confronted him about it.
He mentioned that non-creative individuals now hold power. Rahman said he hears rumors, like music companies hiring other composers instead of him. However, he expressed contentment, stating he prefers work to come to him naturally.
Clarification from AR Rahman Follows Backlash
After his comments ignited controversy, AR Rahman issued a video clarification. He reaffirmed his dedication to India and music. Rahman stressed that his intentions were never to cause harm.
"India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home," he said. Rahman added that he aims to create music that honors the past and inspires the future. The video concluded with footage of a crowd singing his version of Vande Mataram.
Industry Reactions Remain Divided
The film community has responded with mixed opinions. Several celebrities support Rahman, including:
- Paresh Rawal
- Varun Grover
- Chinmayi Sripaada
- Filmmaker Rahul Dholakia
Conversely, figures like Javed Akhtar and Kangana Ranaut have disagreed with Rahman's statements. This division highlights ongoing discussions about inclusivity in Bollywood.
Imtiaz Ali and AR Rahman's Collaborative History
Imtiaz Ali and AR Rahman have a strong professional relationship. Rahman has composed music for multiple Ali films, such as:
- Rockstar (2011)
- Highway (2014)
- Tamasha (2015)
- Amar Singh Chamkila (2024)
This collaboration adds weight to Ali's defense of Rahman. Their shared experiences in the industry inform Ali's perspective on the issue.
Imtiaz Ali reiterated his belief that Rahman's words were taken out of context. He said he does not recall any incident of communal bias or animosity in Bollywood. The filmmaker hopes this misunderstanding will not overshadow Rahman's contributions to Indian cinema.
