Bollywood actor Ranvir Shorey has publicly responded to the recent controversial statements made by Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman regarding the Hindi film industry. In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Rahman discussed what he described as "shifting power dynamics" over the past eight years, suggesting that his work in Bollywood has slowed down, possibly due to "a communal thing." These remarks quickly went viral, sparking reactions from various figures within the entertainment world.
Shorey's Perspective on Rahman's Claims
Speaking to ANI, Shorey expressed his disagreement with the idea that communal reasons are behind Rahman's reduced work in Bollywood. The actor pointed out that he has heard Rahman charges significantly high fees, which could be a contributing factor. "I don't think so. I've actually heard that he charges a lot. I can't comment on somebody else's life. I don't know why he feels that way. I'm sure he has his reasons," Shorey stated, emphasizing a more practical viewpoint on the situation.
Personal Experiences with Bias in the Industry
Shorey then delved into his own encounters with biases in Bollywood, clarifying that his struggles have not been communal but rather rooted in political and feudal dynamics. He explained that every artist faces unique challenges and must navigate them to build their career. "But when it comes to bias, I have faced biases that are not communal in nature, but political and feudal. Your career is shaped by how you deal with those biases," he remarked.
The actor further elaborated that blaming a single type of bias does not help in advancing one's career. "If I say there are biases against me and that's why I haven't gotten work, that's everyone's struggle. It's about how you build your career despite those biases. If I say that, I'll be told I'm whining. I'm sure there are biases, but I don't think they are all of one kind," Shorey added, highlighting the complexity of industry dynamics.
Broader Industry Reactions
Rahman's comments have elicited responses from various corners of Bollywood. Notably, actor-politician Kangana Ranaut criticized Rahman, labeling him as "prejudiced and hateful" in light of his remarks. This ongoing debate underscores the diverse perspectives within the film community regarding power structures and biases.
As discussions continue, Shorey's insights offer a nuanced take on the challenges artists face, moving beyond communal narratives to address broader issues of politics and power in Bollywood. The conversation reflects the evolving landscape of the Hindi film industry, where personal experiences and professional hurdles intersect in complex ways.
