Ismail Darbar reacts to AR Rahman's communal remark: 'Dilip Kumar wouldn't have become a star in that case'

Music composer A. R. Rahman recently sparked debate after claiming that he has been receiving fewer opportunities in Bollywood, suggesting that the industry has become increasingly “communal.” His statement triggered mixed reactions within the film fraternity, some supported his perspective, while others strongly disagreed.

Now, composer Ismail Darbar has weighed in on the controversy. Speaking to Subhojit Ghosh on his YouTube channel, Ismail dismissed Rahman’s claim, arguing that the history of Hindi cinema contradicts such a notion. Pointing to legendary figures, he said, “If the industry was communal then, no Muslim in this country would have become a star. There would have not been Ismail Darbar, Naushad or Dilip Kumar. They wouldn’t have become stars if this was the case.”




Ismail was referring to icons like Dilip Kumar, born Muhammad Yusuf Khan, as well as celebrated composer Naushad, to underline his argument that talent — not religion — determines success in the industry.

Refuting Rahman’s remarks more directly, Ismail added, “It is all about talent and your fate.” He further took a sharp dig at Rahman, saying, “Also, what deficiency do you have in life that your stomach is not getting filled. The God has given you everything, so live nicely. You are very talented, you design sound very nicely. You don’t make good songs, but you are a good sound designer.”

This is not the first time Ismail has publicly criticised Rahman. Back in 2011, after Rahman won an Academy Award for his music in the 2009 film Slumdog Millionaire, Ismail had questioned the merit of the win. “I just don’t understand how the music for that movie won the prestigious award. What was Oscar-worthy about it? Nothing. I would have been happy had he won it for films like Roja or Bombay but not for Slumdog. He did not deserve it. Aur, mujhe pata hai ki ise kharida gaya hai (And, I know that it has been bought).”

Rahman had responded to the accusation at the time, stating simply, “Oscars cannot be bought.”Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”