Music composer A. R. Rahman recently sparked controversy by suggesting that communalism in Bollywood has affected his career opportunities. His comments have led to a backlash from various celebrities, prompting a response from fellow music director Ismail Darbar, who criticized Rahman for what he perceives to be a lack of quality in his music.
In a conversation with Subhojit Ghosh on his YouTube channel, Darbar refuted Rahman’s assertions, citing the history and diversity of Hindi cinema as evidence against communal discrimination. He noted that numerous artists, regardless of their backgrounds, have risen to prominence in the industry, stating, “If the industry were communal, then no Muslim in this country would have become a star.”
Darbar emphasized that success in music relies on talent and personal circumstances, rather than on communal affiliations. He further commented on Rahman’s contributions, acknowledging his skill as a sound designer but critiquing him for not producing memorable songs. He urged Rahman to appreciate his gifts and live positively.
Rahman’s comments initially came during an interview with the BBC Asian Network, where he discussed his experiences as a Tamil composer in Bollywood. He suggested that a recent shift in the industry’s power dynamics could be influencing his work opportunities, hinting at communal factors while maintaining that he personally had not faced direct prejudice.
Following the backlash to his statements, Rahman posted a clarification video, emphasizing his connection to music as a means of unity and cultural expression. He described India as an integral part of his artistic inspiration and expressed disappointment that his intentions might have been misconstrued. Rahman reiterated his goal to uplift and celebrate through music, hoping that his sincerity would resonate with his audience.
Ismail Darbar, known for his acclaimed work in Hindi cinema, gained fame with films like “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam” and “Devdas,” earning him numerous accolades, including a National Film Award. Aside from his film work, he has also appeared as a judge on various singing competition shows, contributing to his reputation in the Indian music industry.