Mumbai: After facing backlash for his remarks on ‘Chhaava’ and communalism in Bollywood, Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman said at a recent event that he is ready to move on.
Addressing the recent controversy, while promoting his upcoming Wonderment Tour in Chennai, Rahman said people don’t listen when he wants to share his perspective.
During an interaction with Noise and Grains, singer-comedian Alexander Babu asked Rahman about the statement he put out to explain himself. “See, in life you have to prepare. And we have to prepare for everything,” Rahman said, and urged a change in topic.
When Alexander said that he was a ‘little sad’ that Rahman had to express his love for the country through his statement, the singer replied, “But you know what, it’s better we move on with some
thing else because people who know you don’t need an explanation. And when you explain, they won’t listen to you, those who don’t…”
For the unversed, in an interview with BBC Asian Network, when Rahman was asked whether he ever felt prejudice in Bollywood as a Tamil composer, he said, “Maybe I never got to know of this, maybe it was concealed by God, but I didn’t feel any of this. 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.”
The singer also criticised Vicky Kaushal’s period drama ‘Chhaava’ for cashing in on ‘divisiveness’.
Rahman later released a video statement explaining himself. “Music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating and honouring our culture. India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home. I understand that intentions can sometimes be misunderstood. But my purpose has always been to uplift, honour and serve through music. I have never wished to cause pain, and I hope my sincerity is felt.”
Rahman’s upcoming Wonderment Tour in Chennai will be held on February 14 at the Nehru Outdoor Stadium, starting at 6.30 pm.