Kamal Ghorui
Actor Prakash Raj has recently reacted to Kangana Ranaut’s comments on AR Rahman. He was speaking about freedom of expression and the consequences of dissent during a session at the Kerala Literature Festival. During a discussion titled ‘Criminalising Dissent! Who Gets Locked Up for Speaking Out?’ Prakash Raj pointed out how Kangana Ranaut slammed the music maestro earlier. He cited the recent backlash against AR Rahman as an example. “What is happening with AR Rahman? What is the public discourse? Maa Tujhe Salaam. Jai Ho. Two Oscars. You rejoiced. He just said… he is not begging for work for your kind information, he’s beyond that. He said, this is the truth,” Prakash Raj said.
Earlier this year, AR Rahman, in an interview with BBC Asian Network, spoke about the lack of opportunities in Hindi cinema, citing ‘communal factors’ as one of the reasons for the same. The music maestro received flak for his remarks, and Kangana Ranaut was among those who made strong statements against him.During his speech, Prakash Raj addressed Kangana’s response to AR Rahman. “Look at the euphoria which has started. Look at the barking which has started. A lady director and actress suddenly just because he did not work for her calls him an anti-national. Kangana Ranaut is calling her film Emergency, a propaganda film, as a classic. And that he denied to work. Look at what is happening around you.”
What does Kangana Ranaut say about AR Rahman?
AR Rahman called Vicky Kaushal’s film ‘Chhaava’, ‘divisive’ during his interview to the broadcaster. “It is a divisive film. I think it cashed in on divisiveness, but I think the core of it is to show bravery,” the musician said. His remarks suggesting that ‘communal’ reasons may have contributed to him not getting enough work in Bollywood led to huge backlash. Kangana Ranaut made sharp remarks against AR Rahman. The actress had approached AR Rahman to compose music for her film ‘Emergency’, however, he refused to even meet her. “Dear @arrahman ji, I face so much prejudice and partiality in the film industry because I support a saffron party yet I must say I have not come across a man more prejudiced and hateful than you,” Kangana Ranaut said. She added “I desperately wanted to narrate my directorial Emergency to you. Forget narration, you even refused to meet me. I was told you don’t want to be part of a propaganda film. Ironically, Emergency was called a masterpiece by all critics. Even opposition party leaders sent me fan letters appreciating the film for its balanced and compassionate approach but you are blinded by your hate. I feel sorry for you #emergency.”Following the controversy, AR Rahman issued a video statement, clarifying his position. “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.”
