Sat Jan 17 07:10:40 UTC 2026: Headline: Bollywood Figures React to A.R. Rahman’s “Communal” Bias Claim

The Story:
Following A.R. Rahman’s recent interview with BBC Network where he suggested a possible “communal” angle behind a slowdown in his Bollywood work, prominent figures within the Indian film industry have offered their perspectives. Author and columnist Shobhaa De, singer Shaan, and veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar have all publicly responded to Rahman’s remarks, with varying degrees of skepticism regarding the alleged bias. The reactions highlight a potential rift within Bollywood concerning issues of communalism and power dynamics.

Key Points:

  • A.R. Rahman stated in a BBC interview that a slowdown in his Bollywood work might be due to “shifting power dynamics” and potentially a “communal thing.”
  • Shobhaa De called Rahman’s comment “dangerous” and stated that Bollywood has largely remained free of communal bias during her 50 years of observation.
  • Shaan denied any “communal or minority” bias, attributing a lack of work to personal preferences and the quality of one’s work.
  • Javed Akhtar stated he has never felt communal bias in Bollywood and believes people have great respect for Rahman.

Key Takeaways:

  • A.R. Rahman’s comments have sparked a debate about the presence of communal bias within Bollywood.
  • The responses from Shobhaa De, Shaan, and Javed Akhtar present contrasting viewpoints, suggesting a lack of consensus on the issue.
  • The incident highlights the power dynamics and potential challenges faced by artists within the Indian film industry.
  • The use of “Chinese whispers” to describe how Rahman receives information suggests indirect communication and a lack of transparency.

Impact Analysis:

The debate spurred by Rahman’s comments has the potential to ignite a broader conversation about diversity and inclusion within Bollywood. If Rahman’s allegations gain traction, it could force the industry to examine its practices and address any potential biases. The incident may also empower other artists to speak out about their experiences, potentially leading to significant changes in the industry’s culture and practices in the long run. Furthermore, this controversy might impact the perception of Bollywood among the public, potentially leading to calls for greater accountability and transparency.

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