Veteran actor Waheeda Rehman has offered a calm, reflective response to composer A. R. Rahman’s recent comments about possibly losing work in Bollywood due to a “communal thing.” Speaking with SCREEN, Waheeda chose restraint over reaction, urging people to step back from speculation and focus on harmony.
“Why Get Involved at All?”
Asked about Rahman’s remark, Waheeda questioned the need to read too much into such claims. At this stage of her life, she said, she prefers peace over polemics. “So, what to believe and how much to believe? If it’s even true or not,” she remarked, adding that she consciously tries to “dig less into it.”
Her message was simple and grounded: this is our country, and living peacefully matters more than chasing every controversy. She also pointed out that small frictions exist everywhere and aren’t unique to India.
Work Ebbs and Flows, She Says
Waheeda Rehman also offered a pragmatic explanation for changing opportunities in the industry. According to her, work naturally fluctuates with time. As tastes evolve, producers often look for newer or different voices, which can affect even the most celebrated names.
She noted that no one stays at the top forever and that ups and downs are part of every creative career. In her view, these shifts are normal — not necessarily proof of prejudice or exclusion.
What AR Rahman Had Said — And Then Clarified
The discussion began after Rahman, in an interview with the BBC Asian Network, spoke about changes in the industry over the past several years. He suggested that power dynamics may have shifted away from creativity, adding that it “might be a communal thing,” though he stressed it wasn’t something he experienced directly. He described hearing about projects falling through second-hand and said he chose to take it in stride, enjoying more time with family instead.
Following mixed reactions from across the industry — including voices like Javed Akhtar, Shaan, Shankar Mahadevan and Kangana Ranaut — Rahman later posted a video clarifying his intent. He reaffirmed that India is his home and inspiration, and said his aim has always been to uplift and serve through music, not to hurt sentiments.
A Shared Creative History
Waheeda Rehman and AR Rahman have worked together on notable projects such as Water (2005) and Delhi-6 (2009), lending added weight to her thoughtful, measured response.
Final Words
In a debate often dominated by sharp reactions and louder voices, Waheeda Rehman’s response stands out for its grace. By steering the conversation toward peace, perspective, and the natural rhythms of creative careers, she offers a reminder that not every industry shift needs to be framed as a battle — sometimes, it’s simply change at work.
