Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman’s recent comments about possible communal bias in Bollywood have sparked debate within the film industry. In an interview, Rahman suggested that non-creative individuals now influence decisions in the industry and indicated possible bias in hiring practices. Responding to these comments, actress Rani Mukherjee shared her perspective saying that she has never seen such discrimination during her three-decade career in Bollywood.

Rani Mukherjee, who has spent three decades in Bollywood, disagrees with this statement of Rahman. Highlighting his personal experiences of inclusivity, he described the Hindi film industry as secular and merit-driven. In a conversation with DD News, she addressed the comment, saying, “Bollywood is the most secular place, and I truly believe in it. There is no discrimination based on caste or religion. In my 30 years in the industry, I have never experienced anything like this. I love this industry – it has made me who I am today. I am saying this from the bottom of my heart: Here, merit matters.”

He further added, “Your work speaks for you, and ultimately, the person with whom the audience connects is the one who survives and succeeds. For me, Bollywood is one of the most secular and most wonderful places.”

Earlier during the conversation BBC Asian NetworkElaborating on his experiences, Rahman said, “People who are not creative now have the power to decide things, and it may be a communal thing too, but not in front of me. It comes to me as Chinese whispers that they have booked you, but the music company went ahead and hired five of their musicians. I said, ‘Oh, this is great, relax for me, I can relax with my family,'” he said.

Rahman’s initial comments attracted a lot of attention And there was a wave of reaction within the industry. He later released a video message to clarify his position, emphasizing that his aims in music are positive and inclusive, despite any misunderstandings that may have arisen from his comments.

Rehman’s comments follow an ongoing conversation around inclusivity, representation and decision-making mechanisms in the entertainment industry. Mukherjee’s description, based on his personal experience, contrasts with Rahman’s suggestion of inherent bias and highlights the diversity of opinion within Bollywood.

Currently Rani Mukherjee is visible Masculinity 3.