Oscar-a success composer AR Rahman recently ignited a heated online debate after describing Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava as “divisive.” The remarks came at some stage in a conversation about his ingenious picks and the evolving tone of mainstream cinema.
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Why Rahman Peaceful Mentioned Yes?
Talking to BBC Asian Network, Rahman reflected on why he agreed to bear for the film no matter reservations about its thematic framing.
He said, “It is a divisive film. I think it cashed in on divisiveness, but I think the core of it is to show bravery. I had asked the director, why did he need me for this film, but he said that ‘we need only you for this’. It is an enjoyable film, but definitely people are smarter than that. Do you think people are going to get influenced by movies? They have something called internal conscience, which knows what the truth is, and what manipulation is.”
His comments highlighted a clear distinction between cinematic intent and viewers perception.
Honouring Sambhaji Maharaj’s Legacy
Rahman also spoke with deep admiration relating to the film’s central figure, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, and the emotional weight of the yarn.
He acknowledged, “Chhaava is the most celebrated character. It is like the blood of every Maratha. Once the film finishes, you see the girl saying beautiful poetry. It’s very moving. I’m so honoured to have scored that full movie, which has the pulse and soul of every Maratha.”
Addressing Spiritual Symbolism Criticism
Responding to criticism all the design in which by strategy of the repeated employ of non secular expressions at some stage in worrying moments in the film, Rahman dismissed such storytelling picks outright, saying, “That is such a cliche. It is cringe.”
Religion in the Target market’s Judgment
Emphasising his belief in viewer intelligence, Rahman bolstered his have confidence in collective discernment.
“I have great respect for people. They are not that foolish to get influenced by false information. I have great faith in humanity. People have a conscience, heart, love and compassion,” he added.
Artwork as a Correct Responsibility
Reflecting on the ethical position of artists, he added, “That’s the reason God is giving more power to people like us so that we can replace the bad with good by word, action, art,” underscoring his dedication to main storytelling.
Selecting Initiatives with Care
When asked whether or no longer exchange shifts accept as true with influenced his professional choices, Rahman admitted, “Some films are made with bad intentions. I try to avoid those movies.”
Social Media Reacts Sharply
Soon after the interview clip surfaced, social media erupted with criticism, with many users calling Rahman’s remarks “terrifying” and questioning his stance on historical narratives.
The cause I couldn’t revel in #Chhaava that famous became as soon as attributable to the awful background score and song by Mr AR Rahman . In my analysis, I couldn’t overtly impart this in the intervening time, however I did give a speed.
Within the direction of the film, paying consideration to A.R. Rahman’s song and background score felt… https://t.co/0Rp8UjtAMD
— Sumit Kadel (@SumitkadeI) January 17, 2026
How #ARRahman destroyed #Chhaava along with his Sufi, Arabic and African instruments 🎵 😳🔥#AjayAtul would accept as true with carried out justice pic.twitter.com/PnDeEJuDCP
— $@M (@SAMTHEBESTEST_) January 17, 2026
Being born a Muslim didn’t cease Zakir Hussain from being Bharat’s most appreciated tabla participant, being born a Muslim didn’t cease Amjad Ali Khan from being Bharat’s wonderful Sarod participant, being born a Muslim didn’t cease Azim Premjee from being one in all Bharat’s most a success industrialist…
— Shefali Vaidya. 🇮🇳 (@ShefVaidya) January 17, 2026
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Box Convey of enterprise Success Amid Controversy
Chhaava, that includes Akshaye Khanna and Viineet Kumar Siingh alongside Vicky Kaushal, loved main industrial success. The film dominated the 2025 box office for months sooner than being surpassed by Dhurandhar in December. Whereas widely praised for its portrayal of the Sambhaji Maharaj-Aurangzeb battle, it also reignited debates about whether or no longer historical dramas deepen societal divides.
