Actor Rani Mukerji has shared her perspective on the debate sparked by AR Rahman’s recent remarks about shifting power equations in the Indian music industry. The Oscar-winning composer, speaking to BBC Asian Network, had suggested that creative decisions were increasingly being shaped by people without artistic backgrounds and hinted that the issue “might be a communal thing.”
Rani, however, sees the industry very differently. In an interview with DD News during promotions for Mardaani 3, the actor said she has never encountered discrimination of any kind in her nearly 30-year journey in Hindi cinema. She described Bollywood as an inherently secular space, stressing that caste or religion has never influenced her opportunities. According to her, the industry gave her an identity and shaped who she is today.
She underlined that success in films ultimately comes down to talent and effort. Rani said that in her experience, merit always finds a way to shine through, and it is the audience’s connection with an artist that determines longevity. For her, Bollywood continues to be one of the most inclusive and rewarding professional spaces.
Addressing questions about power groups or lobbies, Rani made it clear that she chooses not to engage with such dynamics. She said her attention remains firmly on her work, adding that at this point in her life, her family and her child take priority over everything else.
Rahman’s comments had drawn attention after he spoke about his own experiences as a Tamil composer in the Hindi film industry. In the interview, he said he preferred letting work come to him rather than chasing projects, noting that decisions were often made by non-creative people. He added that while he never faced bias directly, he sometimes heard through “Chinese whispers” that projects initially meant for him went to others, which he said gave him more time to spend with his family.
After facing criticism, Rahman later clarified his remarks on social media. In a video message, he said India remains his inspiration and home, and that his intention was never to hurt sentiments. He added that misunderstandings can arise, but his goal has always been to serve and uplift through music.
The composer’s comments triggered a wider discussion online about the balance between creativity and commercial control in the industry. Rani Mukerji’s response stands out as one of the first from a mainstream Bollywood actor, offering a contrasting view shaped by decades of personal experience in the film world.
