Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman has raised serious questions about the evolving environment of the Hindi film industry, saying that a shift in thinking over the past few years has affected how creative professionals receive work.
Rahman’s Candid Take on Bollywood
A.R. Rahman, one of India’s most internationally respected musicians, said that the internal structure of the Hindi film industry has changed significantly in the last eight years. According to him, decision-making power has moved in a direction that does not always favour creativity, and its impact is often felt quietly rather than openly.
Fewer Projects Despite Global Recognition
Despite winning two Academy Awards and earning worldwide acclaim, Rahman acknowledged that he now receives fewer Hindi film projects than earlier. He clarified that he does not actively chase work, believing instead that sincere and high-quality work should naturally attract opportunities.
Questions Over Who Makes Creative Decisions
Rahman pointed out that many key decisions in today’s industry are taken by people who are not directly involved in the creative process. He said there have been instances where he was initially approached for a project, only to later learn that the work was reassigned internally to others. According to him, such decisions are rarely communicated directly and are often finalized behind the scenes.
Contrast With the 1990s Film Industry
Reflecting on his early career, Rahman said he never felt that his background or identity could become a barrier in the 1990s. He believes that either such issues were less prominent then, or the industry’s mindset has undergone a noticeable transformation in recent years.
‘Ramayana’ and a Broader Cultural Perspective
Currently working on the music for Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming film Ramayana, Rahman addressed discussions around religion and identity with a balanced view. He shared that he studied in a Brahmin school and grew up reading Indian epics. For him, Ramayana represents moral values and human ideals rather than belonging exclusively to one religion.
International Collaboration as India’s Strength
Speaking about collaborating with renowned composer Hans Zimmer on the project, Rahman described it as a reflection of India’s cultural diversity. He said that people from different faiths and backgrounds working together is a powerful message of unity that India offers to the world.
Creative Partnership With Kumar Vishwas
Rahman also spoke about working with poet Dr. Kumar Vishwas on the film’s songs. He described Vishwas as a deep scholar of the Ramayana and the Hindi language, adding that their collaboration aims to present the epic with respect while also bringing a fresh creative perspective.
Rahman’s Own Words
“I don’t chase work. I believe honest work finds its own recognition. But today, the process of decision-making has changed,” Rahman said.
Rahman’s remarks highlight deeper shifts within the Hindi film industry. While he continues to contribute to large-scale projects like Ramayana that promote cultural dialogue, his comments also draw attention to internal politics and changing priorities. The discussion sparked by his statements may prompt wider reflection within the film industry in the days ahead.
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