Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has recently made some surprising revelations about his work in the Bollywood industry. He told that in the last eight years (2018-2026), many big projects were lost from his hands. Rehman says that he has never felt direct discrimination, but he feels that the ‘power dynamics’ in the industry have changed. Now decisions are in the hands of those who are not creative.
The real reason for getting less work in Bollywood
AR Rahman told in an interview to BBC Asian Network that he often came to know through ‘Chinese whispers’ (rumors or hushed words) that he was going to get a project, but later the music companies divided it among 5 different composers. Rahman said, “I realize that they had booked me, but then the music company had its own way. I say, okay, it’s good. I get more time to spend with my family.” He made it clear that he does not go to anyone to ask for work nor does he want to go. He believes that work should come to him on the basis of his honesty and ability.
Language became the biggest obstacle
Recalling his early days, Rahman said that despite giving superhit films like ‘Roja’, ‘Bombay’ and ‘Dil Se’, he felt himself an outsider in Bollywood. The biggest reason for this was not knowing Hindi language. Being from Tamil background, he had to face emotional struggle in adopting Hindi. Filmmaker Subhash Ghai advised him that if he wanted to stay in the industry for a long time, he would have to learn Hindi. Following this advice, Rahman not only learned Hindi but also studied Urdu, because the foundation of old Hindi songs was based on Urdu only.
Sukhwinder Singh and Punjab’s connection
The curiosity to learn the language took Rahman to Punjabi music. He told that he was looking for a singer who could both sing and write in Punjabi. On the recommendation of a friend, he met Sukhwinder Singh. What happened after this is history. The duo gave memorable songs like ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’, ‘Ramta Jogi’ and the Oscar winning ‘Jai Ho’. Rehman believes that it was only after the film ‘Taal’ that his music reached every home in North India, because it had a great blend of Punjabi rhythm and Pahari folk music.
Important career milestones and controversies
The changes and recent events in AR Rahman’s career can be briefly understood in the table given below:
Subject Description: Got recognition in North India with the turning point film ‘Taal’ (1999). Languages learned Hindi, Urdu, Arabic and Punjabi. Attitude towards work: Prefer to spend time with family instead of chasing work. Upcoming Project Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi starrer film ‘Ramayana’. Recent controversy Criticism over working with choreographer Jani Master (POCSO accused).
Ramayana and Jani Master controversy
Currently, AR Rahman is busy composing the music of Nitesh Tiwari’s grand film ‘Ramayana’, in which Ranbir Kapoor is playing the role of Lord Ram and Sai Pallavi is playing the role of Mata Sita. However, in November 2025, Rahman also had to face criticism on social media. She worked with choreographer Jani Master for a song in Ram Charan’s film, who was accused of sexual harassment (POCSO Act) in 2024. People raised questions on this, as Rahman had earlier refused to work with #MeToo accused lyricist Vairamuthu. Despite these controversies, Rahman is focusing on his music and work.
Last Updated: 16 January 2026
