Waheeda Rehman Shares Her Take on AR Rahman's Bollywood Bias Controversy
Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has recently faced significant backlash after his remarks on alleged communal bias in the Indian film industry went viral. While numerous filmmakers and singers have contributed their opinions to the ongoing debate, veteran actress Waheeda Rehman has now stepped forward to offer her unique perspective on the matter.
Waheeda Rehman's Stance on the Controversy
In a recent interview with Screen, Waheeda Rehman addressed Rahman's comments, stating that she prefers to distance herself from such discussions. "Yes, I read about it, but I try to dig less into it. I prefer not to pay attention to it when everything is going fine. These small things happen in every country," she remarked, highlighting her desire to maintain peace and avoid unnecessary conflicts.
Elaborating further on her viewpoint, the acclaimed actress added, "So, what to believe and how much to believe? If it's even true or not, why should we get involved? At least at my age, I don't want to get involved with anything or anybody. Apni shaanti se raho, yeh mulk hai humaara, bas khush raho, that's what I can say (this is our country, live in peace and stay happy)." This statement underscores her philosophy of focusing on harmony and personal contentment rather than engaging in divisive debates.
Industry Dynamics and Career Fluctuations
Waheeda Rehman also suggested that professional phases and evolving industry dynamics might influence such statements. "Kaam toh upar neeche hota hi rehta hai. Ek umar ke baad, log kehte hain ki bring somebody new or different (your ability to get work changes after a certain age). All this can lead to a few people staying behind," she observed, pointing to the natural ebb and flow of careers in the entertainment sector.
Concluding her thoughts, she noted that fluctuations in success are an inherent part of any profession. "Agar vo bahut oonchaai par pahuche hain aur vo vahin rahenge, unhi ko lenge, aisa bhi toh nahi hota na. Upar neeche hota hi rehta hai, aisi koi nayi baat nahi hai (It is nothing new; this fluctuation keeps happening)," she said, emphasizing that ups and downs are commonplace and not unique to the film industry.
Background on AR Rahman's Comments
For context, in an interview with BBC Asian Network, AR Rahman was questioned about whether he ever felt marginalized in Bollywood due to being a Tamil composer. He responded, "Maybe I never got to know of this, maybe it was concealed by God, but I didn't feel any of this." He further elaborated, "The past eight years, maybe, because a power shift has happened, and people who are not creative have the power now. It might be a communal thing also… but it is not in my face." During the same conversation, Rahman also criticized the film Chhaava for exploiting "divisiveness," adding another layer to the controversy.
This incident has sparked widespread discussions across the entertainment community, with Waheeda Rehman's response offering a calming voice amidst the turmoil. Her emphasis on peace and detachment serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining harmony in a diverse and dynamic industry like Bollywood.
