Actor Prakash Raj recently spoke at the Kerala Literature Festival, where he discussed the theme 'Criminalising Dissent! Who Gets Locked Up for Speaking Out?'. During his talk, he referenced the recent controversy involving music composer AR Rahman. He also noted how Kangana Ranaut criticized Rahman, saying that people are 'barking'.
Prakash Raj supports AR Rahman in response to Kangana Ranaut
During the event, Prakash mentioned the controversy involving Rahman as an illustration and remarked, 'What is going on with AR Rahman? What is the public discussion? Maa Tujhe Salaam. Jai Ho. Two Oscars. You celebrated. He simply stated... he is not pleading for work, just so you know, he has surpassed that. He said, this is the reality.'
Prakash mentioned Kangana's criticism of Rahman regarding her movie Emergency, which he described as 'propaganda'. He remarked, 'Observe the excitement that has begun. Notice the outcry that has started. A female director and actress suddenly labels him anti-national just because he didn't work for her. Kangana Ranaut is referring to her film Emergency, a propaganda piece, as a classic. And he refused to work on it. Look at what is happening around you.'
What comments did Kangana Ranaut make regarding AR Rahman?
After Rahman faced criticism for labeling Chhaava as a 'divisive' film during a BBC Asian Network interview and suggesting that 'communal' factors might be affecting his opportunities in Bollywood, actor-politician Kangana responded. She posted on her Instagram stories, 'Dear @arrahman ji, I encounter a lot of bias and discrimination in the film industry due to my support for a saffron party, yet I must admit I have never met a man more biased and hateful than you.'
She stated that he declined the opportunity to compose music for her film Emergency, which is about Indira Gandhi. She expressed, 'I was eager to share my directorial project Emergency with you. However, you not only declined the narration but also refused to meet me. I was informed that you didn't want to be involved in a propaganda film. Ironically, critics hailed Emergency as a masterpiece. Even leaders from opposition parties sent me fan letters praising the film for its balanced and compassionate perspective, yet you are blinded by your animosity. I pity you #emergency.'
In response to the controversy, Rahman conveyed his love for India and music through a video statement, highlighting that he never meant to cause any upset.