Mumbai, March 8: Composer Salim Merchant opened up about A.R. Rahman's remarks about communal bias.
Speaking exclusively to IANS, he pointed out that if Rahman is composing the music for "Ramayana" – one of the biggest films based on Indian mythology in history – it is hard to believe that there is any communal bias involved.
Sharing his perspective on the matter, Salim told IANS, "I don't think that's true. I mean, with all due respect to what Rahman said. He may be right in his own way, for his own experience. I don't think that's true. I feel that the composer who is doing the biggest film in the history of Indian cinema, which is a Hindu epic called 'Ramayana', if he is the composer of that, then I don't think there is any problem with any communal thing. But that is my take on it, my opinion; he might have his own reasons."
To refresh your memory, Rahman had recently spoken about receiving limited work offers in Bollywood.
Speaking to BBC Asian Network, the Oscar-winning composer had said, "People who are not creative have the power now to decide things, and this might have also been a communal issue, but not in my face. 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.' "
After facing significant backlash, Rahman uploaded a video clarifying that he never intended to offend anyone.
"Dear friends, music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating, and honoring a 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, honor, and serve through music. I have never wished to cause pain, and I hope my sincerity is felt," he was heard saying.
