A new controversy has unfolded in Bollywood after music maestro A. R. Rahman described the historical drama Chhaava as “divisive.” The comment, made during an interview with BBC Asian Network, has drawn a strong reaction from actor-politician Kangana Ranaut, who publicly criticised Rahman, calling his views “prejudiced and hateful.”
The controversy began when Rahman, speaking about Chhaava—which stars Vicky Kaushal—said that while the film attempts to portray bravery, it also “cashed in on divisiveness.” His remarks quickly gained traction online, triggering polarised reactions across social media.
Kangana responded by taking to her Instagram Stories, where she shared a screenshot from Rahman’s interview and addressed him directly. In her post, she stated that despite facing prejudice in the film industry due to her political affiliations, she had “not come across a man more prejudiced and hateful” than Rahman. She further alleged that the composer had once refused to even meet her when she wanted to narrate her directorial project Emergency.
According to Kangana, Rahman declined the meeting on the grounds that he did not want to associate with what he believed to be a “propaganda film.” She countered this claim by asserting that Emergency was widely appreciated by critics for its balanced and compassionate portrayal, adding that even leaders from opposition parties had praised the film. Expressing disappointment, she concluded her note by accusing Rahman of being “blinded by hate.”
On the professional front, Kangana was last seen in Emergency, a political film she directed and co-produced. The movie features her in the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and chronicles the 21-month Emergency period between 1975 and 1977. Despite its ambitious subject, the film failed to make a significant impact at the box office.
As reactions continue to pour in, the exchange has reignited conversations around creative freedom, political perception in cinema, and the increasingly blurred lines between art, ideology, and public discourse in the film industry.
