Oscar-winning composer A. R. Rahman recently found himself at the centre of a heated debate after comments he made about shifting power dynamics in the music industry sparked strong reactions online. While Rahman later clarified his remarks, the discussion has now drawn responses from within the film fraternity — including actor-politician Arun Govil, who firmly rejected the idea of communal bias in Indian cinema.
What Arun Govil Said
Speaking to Press Trust of India on the sidelines of an event organised by the Federation of Western India Cine Employees and Cine Artiste Welfare Trust, Arun Govil addressed Rahman’s controversial remarks head-on.
The veteran actor, best known for portraying Lord Ram in Ramayan, said that communal bias has never dictated who gets work in the film industry.
“In our industry, it has never happened where people have not got work due to communal bias,” Govil stated. “People of every religion have worked here. Even today, there is no such thing. In fact, the film industry is the only industry where there is no communal bias.”
Citing Bollywood’s Biggest Superstars
Govil further backed his argument by pointing to the longevity and dominance of some of Bollywood’s biggest names.
He cited legends like Dilip Kumar, who ruled Hindi cinema in his era, and modern superstars Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan, who have remained at the top for over three decades.
“If there were communal bias, how would they have become stars?” Govil asked, stressing that talent and audience acceptance — not religion — determine success in Bollywood.
What Triggered the AR Rahman Controversy
The debate began after Rahman, in an interview with BBC Asian Network, spoke about how decision-making power in the music industry has shifted away from creative individuals.
“People who are not creative have the power now to decide things,” Rahman said, adding that it “might have been a communal thing also, but not in my face.” He described how such decisions often reached him indirectly, referring to them as “Chinese whispers.”
The remarks quickly went viral, with sections of social media and the industry interpreting them as a suggestion of communal influence in professional opportunities.
Rahman Clarifies His Stand
Following the backlash, Rahman released a video message clarifying his intent. He emphasised that his comments were not meant to hurt any community and reiterated that music has always been his way of celebrating India’s diversity.
Rahman expressed pride in India’s multicultural identity and freedom of expression, highlighting several of his past projects as examples of his commitment to inclusivity. He also reaffirmed his gratitude toward the country and said he remains focused on creating music that brings people together.
Final Words
The episode has once again highlighted how sensitive conversations around power, creativity, and identity can quickly escalate in the public sphere. While AR Rahman has clarified his position, Arun Govil’s response reflects a long-held belief within Bollywood — that despite its flaws, the industry has historically remained one of India’s most inclusive creative spaces.
As the discussion settles, both voices underline a larger truth: cinema and music continue to thrive when talent, not labels, takes centre stage.
