Overview
- Rahman said Hindi-film offers declined over the past eight years, suggesting a power shift toward intermediaries and hinting at a possible, indirect communal factor while stressing he does not chase work.
- Columnist Shobhaa De called his communal remark “dangerous,” arguing opportunities in Bollywood are driven by talent rather than religion.
- BJP figures, including Union minister Ramdas Athawale, rejected any communal bias, saying the industry operates on merit and remains welcoming to Muslim artists.
- Other voices urged reflection, with AIMIM’s Waris Pathan and several Congress leaders saying Rahman’s observations should be taken seriously in light of growing polarisation concerns.
- Despite fewer Hindi-film assignments, Rahman remains active with projects such as Gandhi Talks releasing January 30 and a Ramayana collaboration with Hans Zimmer slated for Diwali 2026.