Manoj Muntashir counters AR Rahman's remark on Chhaava: Why call it propaganda?

Lyricist Manoj Muntashir has hit back at AR Rahman over the composer’s ‘propaganda’ remark on Chhaava and his suggestion that a communal element could be a factor in him getting less work in the Hindi film industry. Manoj said Rahman’s comments did not make sense to him and argued that his professional situation should not immediately be linked to his religious identity.In an interview with Shubhankar Mishra on his YouTube channel, Manoj said Rahman would have known the story of Chhaava before agreeing to work on the film. He also said that if Rahman had genuine reservations about the project, he could have chosen not to be associated with it.Addressing Rahman’s description of Chhaava as a ‘propaganda’ film, Manoj said, “It is not like you hadn’t heard the script before agreeing to work in it. You suddenly started composing music for it? He must have read the script.”He added, “Okay, so it was a propaganda film, and you didn’t want to do it but after doing the film and calling it a propaganda film, I do not understand this, sorry.” Manoj also pushed back against Rahman’s suggestion that a communal factor could be one of the reasons behind him receiving less work in Bollywood. He said other reasons, including professional relationships and the performance of recent songs, should also be considered.“Today, because of some reason you feel that you are getting less work, then why shouldn’t we look for other reasons? It might be that we have not maintained good relations with people,” he said. He added, “Maybe the songs haven’t worked in the last few years. There can be so many other reasons.”While making his argument, Manoj referred to prominent Muslim personalities who have held some of the biggest positions in India. He mentioned former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin and Muslim Presidents of India, while also pointing to Rahman’s own stature.“There is no bigger name than him in this country. Why didn’t he ask this question, ‘Why me?’ or ‘Why a Muslim?’” he said.Manoj further questioned what he saw as an unnecessary communal reading of Rahman’s professional situation. “I don’t understand what the reason is behind hurting the social fabric of this nation suddenly,” he said.He added that he would be willing to discuss the issue directly with Rahman. “Whenever I meet him, I will ask him this. He does not mind an open dialogue,” Manoj said.Rahman had earlier spoken about his experience in the Hindi film industry during an interaction with BBC host Haroon Rashid.The composer said changes within the industry over the past eight years may have affected the opportunities coming his way, adding, “Maybe in the past eight years, because a power shift has happened and people who are not creative have the power now. It might be a communal thing also, but it is not in my face.”Chhaava, directed by Laxman Utekar is based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, portrayed by actor Vicky Kaushal.The film also featured actors Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Vineet Kumar Singh, Ashutosh Rana and Neel Bhoopalam in key roles.- EndsPublished By: Anurag BohraPublished On: Aug 11, 2026 06:37 IST