Manoj Muntashir Challenges AR Rahman’s ‘Communalism’ Claims, Cites Muslim Success and “Chhaava” Paradox
Mumbai, India – In a move that has reignited a critical debate within the Indian film fraternity, prominent lyricist Manoj Muntashir has offered a sharp rebuttal to Oscar-winning music maestro AR Rahman’s previous remarks regarding communalism in Bollywood and his controversial description of the film ‘Chhaava’ as "propaganda." Muntashir’s comments, delivered during an interview with Shubankar Mishra, emphasize the significant achievements of Muslims in India while questioning the underlying reasons behind Rahman’s recent assertions.
Rahman had previously made headlines for suggesting that a decline in his work in Bollywood might be linked to communal factors, and for labeling the upcoming Vicky Kaushal-starrer ‘Chhaava’ a propaganda film. Muntashir, known for his incisive commentary, has now directly addressed these claims.
"When Mohd Azharuddin became captain of the Indian Cricket team, when a Muslim becomes the President of India, when a legend like AR Rahman…who despite his religious identity…there is no bigger name than him in this country," Muntashir stated, highlighting instances of Muslim individuals attaining top positions in various fields. He then directly challenged Rahman’s perspective, adding, "Why didn’t he ask this question, ‘Why me?’ or ‘Why a Muslim?’ Today because of some reason you feel that you are getting less work than why shouldn’t we look for other reasons. It might be that we have not maintained good relations with people. Maybe the songs haven’t worked in the last few years. There can be so many other reasons. I don’t understand what is the reason behind hurting the social fabric of this nation suddenly."
Muntashir expressed his intent to engage directly with Rahman on the matter, noting, "But whenever, I will meet him, I will ask him this. He does not mind an open dialogue."
Beyond the broader issue of communalism, Muntashir also tackled Rahman’s reported criticism of ‘Chhaava’, a film for which Rahman himself was the music director. Muntashir raised a pertinent question about the composer’s involvement if he harbored such strong reservations about the project’s narrative.
"He shouldn’t have been a part of that film. It is not like you hadn’t heard the script before agreeing to work in it. You suddenly started composing music for it? He must have read the script. Okay so it was a propaganda film and you didn’t want to do it… but after doing the film and calling it a propaganda, I do not understand this, sorry," Muntashir remarked, pointing to a perceived inconsistency in Rahman’s stance.
Rahman’s initial comments, made during an interaction with the BBC, touched upon the possibility of prejudice in the Hindi film industry. He had said, “Maybe I never get to know of this, maybe it was concealed but I didn’t feel any of this. Maybe in the past eight years because a power shift has happened and people who are not creative have the power now. It might be a communal thing also… but it is not in my face. It comes to me as Chinese whispers that they booked you but the music company went ahead and hired their 5 composers. I say good, I have more time to chill with my family. I am not in search for work. I don’t want to go in search for work. I want work to come to me; my sincerity to earn work. Whatever I deserve, I get.”
Muntashir’s latest remarks have effectively brought Rahman’s earlier statements back into the spotlight, offering a contrasting viewpoint. While Rahman had suggested the potential influence of communal prejudice and shifting power dynamics on his career, Muntashir has introduced alternative explanations such as interpersonal relationships or the commercial performance of recent musical endeavors.
Furthermore, Muntashir’s challenge to Rahman regarding ‘Chhaava’ has reignited discussions about the ethics of creative professionals criticizing projects they were actively involved in. His comments underscore a debate about whether artists should associate themselves with projects if they fundamentally disagree with their underlying message or treatment. This ongoing exchange promises to keep the film industry abuzz with conversations about artistic integrity, professional conduct, and the complex socio-political landscape of Indian cinema.
