'If he is composer of 'Ramayana' then I don't think there is any problem': Salim Merchant on AR Rahman’s ‘communal bias’ row

Music composer Salim Merchant recently shared his views on remarks made by fellow composer A. R. Rahman regarding possible communal bias in the film industry.

In a conversation with IANS, Salim addressed Rahman’s earlier statement about receiving limited work offers in Bollywood. While expressing respect for Rahman, Salim said he personally does not believe communal bias plays a role in such situations. The composer emphasised that his opinion is based on his own perspective and acknowledged that Rahman might have had different experiences in the industry.

Salim Merchant shares his perspective

During the interview, Salim Merchant pointed out that Rahman is currently associated with one of the biggest upcoming mythological films in Indian cinema. According to him, this suggests that the industry continues to value Rahman’s talent regardless of religious identity. The 'Ishq Wala Love' singer specifically mentioned Rahman’s involvement in the film Ramayana, which is based on the Hindu epic of the same name. Salim told IANS, “I don't think that is true. I mean, with all due respect to what Rahman said. He may be right in his own way, for his own experience. I don't think that's true. I feel the composer who is doing the biggest film in the history of Indian cinema, which is a Hindu epic called 'Ramayana' if he is the composer of that, then I don't think there is any problem with any communal thing. But that is my take on it, my opinion; he might have his own reasons.”

A. R. Rahman's earlier remark about limited work

The discussion began after A. R. Rahman spoke about the challenges he has faced in receiving work in the Hindi film industry. In an interview with BBC Asian Network, the Oscar-winning composer said he sometimes hears indirect explanations for why certain projects do not move forward. AR Rahman suggested that industry dynamics may influence decisions about who gets hired for film music. The acclaimed composer said, “People who are not creative have the power now to decide things, and this might have been a communal thing also, but not in my face. It comes to me as Chinese whispers that they booked you, but the music company went ahead and hired their five composers. I said, 'Oh, that's great, rest for me, I can chill out with my family.'”

Following the debate and criticism that followed his comments, A. R. Rahman later shared a video message clarifying his intentions. The composer explained that he never meant to hurt anyone’s sentiments and emphasised that music has always been a bridge that connects cultures and celebrates diversity. Rahman said, “Dear friends, music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating and honouring a 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.”

AR Rahman on the work front

Dhanush and Kriti Sanon starrer 'Tere Ishk Mein', and Vijay Sethupathi and Aditi Rao Hydari starrer 'Gandhi Talks'. His upcoming projects, other than 'Ramayana,' include the Ram Charan starrer 'Peddi.'




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