Javed Akhtar rejects communal angle in AR Rahman's industry remarks
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Mumbai: Veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar has dismissed any "communal element" behind A.R. Rahman's recent comments on reduced Hindi film work, attributing it instead to the composer's global commitments and towering stature in the industry.
Rahman had told BBC Asian Network that shifting power dynamics, possibly with a communal undertone, slowed opportunities for him, often hearing through "Chinese whispers" that projects chose other composers despite initial interest, allowing him family time.
Akhtar, speaking to IANS on January 17, countered that he never sensed such bias in Mumbai, where Rahman commands universal respect, and people likely assume his unavailability due to massive international shows demanding extensive preparation.
Akhtar noted even small producers hesitate to approach the "big man" Rahman, insisting no communal factor exists and the composer remains responsive if contacted directly: "Why don't you see him? He will definitely come."
(Inputs from IANS)