“AR Rahman hinted that the shift of power in Bollywood has affected his career.”

Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has candidly expressed his views on a perceived shift in the Hindi film industry over the past eight years, suggesting that creative voices may no longer wield the same influence they once did. Speaking to the BBC Asian Network, the composer, often hailed as the “Mozart of Madras”, hinted that a change in power dynamics—and perhaps a communal undertone—has affected the kind of work that comes his way.

“Maybe I never noticed it, or perhaps it was concealed by God, but I didn’t feel any of this earlier. Over the past eight years, perhaps because a power shift has occurred, it seems those who are less creative now hold influence. It might also have communal implications… but it isn’t directly in my face,” Rahman remarked.

Reflecting on his career highlights, Rahman cited Subhash Ghai’s 1999 film Taal as a milestone that resonated across India. “Taal entered the kitchens of everybody, so to say. Even now, most North Indians carry its music in their blood. It blends Punjabi, Hindi and a touch of mountain music,” he said, emphasising the film’s enduring cultural impact.

When asked about bias or discrimination against artists from Tamil Nadu during the 1990s, Rahman said he largely felt insulated. However, he acknowledged a shift in recent years. “Sometimes I hear through Chinese whispers that a music company booked me but then hired five other composers instead. I say, good—I get more time with my family. I’m not in search of work; I want work to come to me. Whatever I deserve, I get,” he added.

Rahman’s journey in Bollywood began with Taal, which catapulted him to nationwide fame, and he has since reshaped Indian cinema’s musical landscape through iconic scores for films such as Roja, Bombay and Dil Se.

Looking forward, Rahman has composed the music for Tamil superstar Vijay Sethupathi’s upcoming drama Gandhi Talks, directed by Kishor Pandurang Belekar. The film features Arvind Swamy, Aditi Rao Hydari and Siddharth Jadhav, and is slated for release on 30 January 2026.

He is also collaborating with Grammy-winning composer Hans Zimmer on Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious Ramayana adaptation, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol and Yash, scheduled for release later this year.

Rahman’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into the evolving dynamics of Bollywood, highlighting how the industry’s landscape can shift over time while reaffirming his commitment to letting quality and sincerity guide his work rather than seeking it.