Is There a Communal Angle to A.R. Rahman’s Comments? Shaan Weighs In

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Is There a Communal Angle to A.R. Rahman’s Comments? Shaan Weighs In

Synopsis

In a recent interview, A.R. Rahman expressed concerns about potential biases in the Hindi film industry. Shaan, a noted playback singer, refutes these claims, emphasizing the importance of focusing on one’s craft rather than communal narratives. Discover their insights on the industry dynamics and the significance of artistry in this thought-provoking discussion.

Key Takeaways

  • Shaan critiques the idea of communal bias in the music industry.
  • A.R. Rahman’s comments highlight the challenges faced by artists.
  • Focus on quality work is essential for all musicians.
  • Personal experiences shape perceptions of success in the industry.
  • Growing fanbases indicate talent transcends communal narratives.

Mumbai, Jan 17 (NationPress) Acclaimed playback artist Shaan has rejected any idea of a “communal” bias in A.R. Rahman’s recent statements regarding his diminishing involvement in the Hindi film sector.

In a conversation with BBC Asian Network, Rahman mentioned that the reasons for this situation often reach him through “Chinese whispers”.

He elaborated: “Individuals who lack creativity hold the reins now, and while this might have a communal aspect, it hasn’t been presented to me directly.”

Rahman continued, “I hear through Chinese whispers that they booked you, yet the music label opted for their five composers. I thought, 'That’s wonderful, I can spend time with my family.'”

When asked about his response to the Oscar-winning composer’s remarks, Shaan shared with IANS: “I’m here speaking to you, and I’m not receiving much work.”

“Having sung for numerous years, I too find myself with limited opportunities. But I don’t dwell on it as I believe it’s a personal matter. Everyone has unique preferences and thoughts, and how much work we receive is beyond our control.”

Shaan added: “Whatever assignments you receive, excel in them. The work Mr. Rahman produces is marked by his distinct style. It’s impressive that his fanbase is growing, not diminishing.”

He concluded that there is indeed no “communal angle.”

“I don’t believe there is any communal minority issue. What you’re suggesting doesn’t occur in music. Were that the case, our three superstars, who have been in the minority for 30 years, would have fewer fans, yet their following continues to grow. So, just focus on delivering quality work and creating great music, without worrying about these distractions.”

Point of View

It’s essential to approach the discussion with an open mind. Shaan’s perspective offers a balanced view, reminding us that personal biases can cloud our judgments about the industry. As we navigate these conversations, it’s crucial to focus on the merits of talent and creativity rather than attributing challenges to communal factors.
NationPress
17/01/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What did A.R. Rahman say about his work?
A.R. Rahman mentioned that he has been experiencing a slowdown in his work in the Hindi film industry, attributing it to various indirect reasons he referred to as 'Chinese whispers.'
What is Shaan's stance on the communal angle?
Shaan firmly denies the existence of any communal bias in Rahman's comments, stating that the music industry should focus on quality work rather than communal issues.
How does Shaan relate to the challenges in the industry?
Shaan shares his own experiences of limited work opportunities, emphasizing that it’s a personal journey and not necessarily tied to communal aspects.
What does Shaan suggest artists should focus on?
He suggests that artists should concentrate on delivering good work and creating quality music without being distracted by communal narratives.
Are Rahman’s fans decreasing according to Shaan?
No, Shaan mentions that Rahman’s fanbase is actually increasing, which contradicts the notion of any communal bias affecting popularity.
Nation Press