AR Rahman faces BACKLASH for working with sexual harassment-accused Jani Master; singer Chinmayi Sripada says ‘he had no idea’

TRIGGER WARNING: This article includes references to sexual harassment
Music composer AR Rahman is facing criticism for working with choreographer Jani Master, who has been accused of sexually harassing a minor and is currently out on bail. The controversy began after the choreographer shared pictures with Rahman following their work on the song ‘Chikiri Chikiri’ from Ram Charan’s film ‘Peddi’.

Jani master shares photos with Rahman

On 9 November, Jani Master took to social media to share photos with AR Rahman and ‘Peddi’ director Buchi Babu Sana. He wrote, "We grew up watching and dancing to Legendary @arrahman Sir's songs and I can't believe I choreographed this chartbuster #ChikiriChikiri in his composition. Thank you for your kind words of support Sir (sic)."

The song features Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor. Soon after the post surfaced, many social media users criticised Rahman for collaborating with Jani Master and posing for pictures with him.

Netizens slam AR Rahman for working with Jani Master

The post quickly went viral, with netizens questioning Rahman about giving a platform to someone accused of harassment. Many netizens commented ‘disappointed’ under the same post. Some pointed out that Rahman had previously stopped collaborating with Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu, who faced nearly 20 complaints from women, including singer Chinmayi, during the #MeToo movement in 2018.

Chinmayi responds to criticism directly online

After Rahman faced backlash, an X (formerly Twitter) user criticised Chinmayi for not speaking up. They wrote, "I think Akka will keep quiet because it’s is Rahman. Hypocrisy is an attribute of hers!!"

Chinmayi hit back saying, "OH please shut up. I asked Sir - and he had no idea. I have called out even the CM and the biggest actors in Tamil film industry."

She also added, "YOU ARE NOT the one going to Court and getting harassed. So stop haranguing me when other powerful men employ a molester. YOU All can call out your idols I cannot keep doing the work all the time. I have done, lost enough, been abused enough, harassed enough. You are an anonymous handle on Twitter with nothing to lose."

DISCLAIMER: If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual harassment or abuse, please seek help. Numerous helplines and support resources are available.



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