In a heated exchange that’s captivating Bollywood circles, veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar has fired back at music maestro AR Rahman following the Oscar winner’s recent comments on the industry’s power dynamics. Rahman had stirred controversy by stating that even ‘small producers’ live in fear, a remark made during a public discussion on creative freedom and bullying in filmmaking.
Akhtar, known for his sharp wit and unfiltered opinions, didn’t hold back. He questioned the validity of Rahman’s perspective, arguing that true fear grips aspiring artists and technicians far more than established producers. ‘A small producer fearing? That’s rich coming from someone at the top,’ Akhtar remarked in a recent interview, emphasizing how privilege shapes such views.
The spat unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing debates about exploitation in Bollywood. Rahman, celebrated for his global hits in films like Slumdog Millionaire and Lagaan, highlighted systemic intimidation where even minor stakeholders hesitate to speak up. Yet Akhtar countered that producers, regardless of size, wield significant control over budgets and careers, often squeezing talent for maximum output.
This isn’t the first time these two icons have clashed indirectly through public statements. Akhtar has long advocated for better royalties and artist rights, while Rahman focuses on innovation amid constraints. Industry insiders see this as a symptom of deeper tensions: the push for fair pay versus the realities of funding ambitious projects.
As social media erupts with opinions, fans are divided. Some praise Rahman’s candor on mental health in creative spaces, others nod to Akhtar’s grounded take on power imbalances. Whatever the outcome, this dialogue underscores Bollywood’s evolving conversation on equity. Will it lead to reforms, or remain just another celebrity spat? Only time will tell.