Kangana Ranaut slams A.R. Rahman over ‘communalism’ remarks, controversy intensifies

Mumbai: Oscar-winning music composer A.R. Rahman’s recent comments on the changing face of the Indian film and music industry have triggered a major controversy, drawing sharp reactions from artists, political figures and religious organisations.

Rahman had stated in an interview that communalism has increased in the film industry in recent years and hinted that religious bias may be influencing creative and professional opportunities.

Following his remarks, several prominent figures, including lyricist Javed Akhtar and singers Hariharan and Shaan, shared their views on the issue. Now, BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut has entered the debate with a strongly worded response, directly criticising Rahman and accusing him of prejudice and hostility.

Taking to Instagram Stories, Kangana Ranaut expressed her disagreement with Rahman’s statements on communalism. “Dear Rahman ji, because I support the saffron party, I have faced immense discrimination and bias in the film industry.

But I have never met someone as prejudiced and hate-filled as you,” she wrote. Her remarks quickly went viral, further escalating the row.

Kangana also recalled her personal experience involving Rahman in connection with her directorial venture Emergency. “I wanted to narrate the story of my film Emergency to you. Forget listening to the narration, you refused to even meet me. I was told you did not want to be part of the film’s promotions,” she claimed.

Calling it ironic, Kangana added that critics had hailed Emergency as a masterpiece and that even opposition leaders had sent letters praising the film. “But you are blinded by hatred. I feel sorry for you,” she said.

Rahman, in his earlier interview, had remarked that for the past eight years, the music industry has been increasingly controlled by people lacking creative sensibility. He suggested that this shift may be linked to religious identity, though such issues are rarely addressed openly. “No one says it to your face, but these whispers continue behind your back,” Rahman had said, sparking intense debate.

His comments drew criticism not only from sections of the film fraternity but also from Hindu organisations, which accused him of generalising and politicising the industry. Supporters of Rahman, however, argue that he was highlighting a larger systemic issue and calling for introspection within the industry.

With Kangana Ranaut’s entry into the controversy, the issue has now taken on a clear political dimension, pitting ideological differences against artistic expression. As reactions continue to pour in, the debate has reignited discussions on freedom of expression, religious identity, and the intersection of politics and cinema in India’s entertainment industry.

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