Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jan 30: Actor Rani Mukerji has offered a contrasting view to Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman’s recent remarks on power dynamics and alleged discrimination in the Indian music industry, asserting that Bollywood remains a secular and merit-driven space.

Speaking to DD News during promotions for Mardaani 3, Rani said she has never faced discrimination based on caste or religion in her nearly three-decade-long career. “Bollywood is the most secular place, and I truly believe that. In my 30 years in the industry, I have never experienced anything like this. I love this industry, it made me who I am today,” she said.

Emphasising the importance of talent and hard work, the actor added that merit continues to be the deciding factor for success in the film industry. “Here, merit matters. Your work speaks for you, and ultimately, the person the audience connects with is the one who survives and succeeds. For me, Bollywood remains one of the most amazing places to be,” she said.

Responding to questions about the existence of lobbies in the industry, Rani said she chooses to stay away from such discussions. “I only focus on my films. At this stage of my life, my priority is my child and my family,” she noted.

Her comments come in response to Rahman’s recent interview with BBC Asian Network, where the composer reflected on his struggles as a Tamil musician in Bollywood and suggested that non-creative decision-makers now hold power, adding that it “might have been a communal thing,” though not directly faced by him.

Following backlash, Rahman later clarified his remarks on social media, stating that India is his inspiration and home, and that his intent was never to hurt sentiments but to serve through music.

Rahman’s comments had triggered a wider debate on social media over creative versus commercial control in the industry, with Rani Mukerji’s response emerging as one of the first strong rebuttals from a mainstream Bollywood actor.