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'Never felt this': Javed Akhtar dismisses Rahman's 'communal thing' remarks
17 Jan 2026

Veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar has dismissed composer AR Rahman's claims about a possible "communal thing" affecting his recent work in Bollywood.

In a recent interview, Rahman hinted that his declining work in the Hindi film industry could be due to changing power dynamics and a possible "communal thing."

However, Akhtar told IANS, "I have never felt this. I meet people here in Mumbai. They have great respect for him."

Akhtar highlighted Rahman's international commitments
Industry respect

Akhtar further explained that many people think Rahman is too busy with his international commitments and big shows to work on Bollywood projects.

"People may think that he has become very busy in the West."

"They may think that his shows are very big. He spends a lot of time in those shows," he said.

Akhtar acknowledged Rahman's towering stature in the industry
Producer's perspective

Akhtar also noted that Rahman's immense stature often intimidates smaller producers, making them hesitant to approach him.

"Rahman is such a big man. Even a small producer is afraid to go to him," he said.

Despite this, Akhtar assured that if anyone reaches out to Rahman, he will respond positively.

"But I don't think there is any communal element in this. Why don't you see him? He will definitely come," he added.

Rahman's comments on 'Chinese whispers' and creative power
Composer's perspective

In a recent interview with BBC Asian Network, Rahman spoke about the reasons for his declining work in Bollywood.

He 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."

Rahman's reaction to being replaced by other composers
Composer's response

Rahman also shared his reaction to being replaced by other composers in Bollywood.

He said, "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.'"

Rahman's recent Bollywood works include Tere Ishk Mein and Chhaava.

He's also composing music for Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana.

BJP's response to Rahman's comments
BJP's response

Meanwhile, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale also reacted to Rahman's comments, saying, "I believe there is no truth to A.R. Rahman's allegations."

"The Hindi film industry has many artists from the Muslim community, including Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Aamir Khan, who are loved by people in Maharashtra and across India."

BJP MLA Jitendra Kumar Gothwal commented, "Earlier, people often got work through recommendations from certain leaders."

"Now, work is being given on the basis of talent rather than manipulation."