Santhosh Narayanan Clears the Air: Composer Denies Targeting Sai Abhyankkar in Viral ‘Mannaru’ Video
Renowned music composer Santhosh Narayanan has officially addressed the controversy surrounding a recent social media video that sparked rumors of a feud with emerging artist Sai Abhyankkar.
The confusion began after Santhosh Narayanan shared a light-hearted, self-deprecating video featuring Mannar Muthu. In the clip, the duo discussed creating an "unplugged" version of their recently released track, ‘Mannaru.’ Because Sai Abhyankkar is widely known for frequently sharing unplugged versions of his own popular songs, many social media users interpreted Santhosh’s post as a veiled critique of the younger composer’s content style.
Setting the Record Straight
As the online discourse grew more heated, with some fans accusing the veteran composer of shade-throwing, Santhosh Narayanan took to the comment section to put the speculation to rest.
"To one and all gathered here… my video was a humorous self-dig at a desperate attempt to have an unplugged version," the composer wrote. "Not aimed at anyone else or Sai. I love his music and support it. Also, when my dig is aimed at someone, it will be pretty apparent with names."
By explicitly stating his admiration for Sai Abhyankkar’s work, the composer sought to pivot the conversation away from non-existent rivalries and back to the artistry of the music itself.
Industry Support
The clarification also drew support from fellow composer and industry contemporary, Sean Roldan. After being tagged in various social media threads where users were using abusive language to fuel the controversy, Roldan stepped in to defend his colleague.
Taking to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Roldan explained that he has known Santhosh for years and characterized the video as nothing more than harmless, friendly banter. He urged the public to take the joke in the right spirit, noting that even if artists have differing creative opinions, it does not translate to genuine malice. Roldan concluded his statement by calling for a more relaxed approach from the fanbase, adding that everyone should "just chill."
Focus Returns to ‘Mannaru’
The track ‘Mannaru’ has been gaining significant momentum since its release, and the "Oppari" version shared by Santhosh was originally intended as a humorous way to celebrate that success. Despite the unintended detour into social media drama, the consensus from both composers is clear: there is no animosity between the two artists.
With the air now cleared, fans and followers appear ready to move past the speculation and return their focus to the music, as the track continues to find its audience across digital platforms.
