Overview
- BJP figures including Union minister Ramdas Athawale rejected any communal angle, saying film opportunities hinge on merit rather than religion.
- Writers Javed Akhtar and Shobhaa De questioned the claim, with Akhtar expressing doubt he said it as reported and De calling the remark “dangerous.”
- Industry voices offered non-communal explanations, citing high fees, limited availability due to international tours, corporatisation and the rise of newer composers.
- Rahman said he often hears through “Chinese whispers” that projects initially planned with him go to multiple composers, and he emphasized that he does not chase work.
- He continues on marquee projects such as Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana with Hans Zimmer, and he separately described the 2025 hit Chhaava as “divisive.”