Salim Merchant Says He Doesn’t See Communal Problem in Industry, Counters A. R. Rahman

Earlier in the year, veteran musician AR Rahman made a statement about communalism in music, saying he didn’t have much work. This statement sparked a new debate. AR Rahman later explained what he meant by his statement. Now, nearly two months after AR Rahman’s statement, another musician, Salim Merchant, has spoken about it.

In a conversation with IANS, Salim Merchant disagreed with AR Rahman's views. He said, "I don't think this is true." While I respect what Rahman has said, he may be right from his experience and perspective, but I don't think so.

Referring to AR Rahman's ambitious project, "Ramayana," Salim said, "I think if Rahman is the music director for a film based on the Hindu epic, "Ramayana," one of the biggest films in the history of Indian cinema, I don't think there's a communal problem in the industry. But that's my perspective and my opinion. He may have his own reasons."

AR Rahman, speaking to BBC Asian Network earlier this year, said, "For the past eight years, I've felt that talent doesn't provide work in the industry. The music industry is in the hands of people who are neither creative nor understand creativity."

Religion is also a reason for less work. People don't say anything to your face, but whisper behind your back. He feels communal sentiments are gradually taking over the film and music world." He is seeing its impact on his work as well. Apart from this, he had described 'Chhava' as a divisive film.