AR Rahman gives his first statement after his remarks in a latest interview

The music composer broke his silence after facing backlash for his statements during an interview, stating that his aim was never to cause pain.

Recently, during an interview with BBC Asian Network, music composer andsinger AR Rahman drew backlash for his remarks on communalism. However, the composer has now broken the silence on the same and given a statement.

AR Rahman, after facing criticism, clarifies the matter.

Following criticism from audiences over his comment on communalism in a recent interview, the legendary music composer reiterated his love for India. He said it was never his aim to cause pain with his statements, and he has always strived to serve the country through music. He also ended the video with footage of his song MaaTujhe Salaam/VandeMataram being played during a cricket match.

AR Rahman shares a video statement calling India his teacher and home.

In a statement, he said, “Music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating and honouring our culture. India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home. I understand that intentions can sometimes be misunderstood. But my purpose has always been to uplift, honour and serve through music. I have never wished to cause pain, and I hope my sincerity is felt.” He added, “I feel blessed to be Indian, which enables me to create a space which always allows freedom of expression and celebrates multicultural voices. From nurturing Jhalaa, presented at the WAVES summit in front of the honourable Prime Minister and Rooh-e-Noor, to collaborating with the young Naga musicians, to creating a string orchestra, to mentoring the Sunshine orchestra, also building Secret Mountain, India’s first multicultural virtual band and the honour of scoring Ramayana, alongside Hans Zimmer. Each journey has strengthened my purpose.” Ending his statement, AR Rahman said, “I remain grateful to this nation and committed to music that honours the past.”

In his latest BBC Asian Network interview, the music composer was asked if he ever felt prejudice in Bollywood as a Tamil composer. He said, “Maybe I never got to know of this, maybe it was concealed by God, but I didn’t feel any of this. The past eight years, maybe, 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.” He also criticised Chhaava for cashing in on ‘divisiveness’.