Not Just AR Rahman: Hariharan Confirms ‘Power Shift’ in Bollywood, Says Few Truly Understand Music

Following the controversy sparked by AR Rahman’s recent statements about the music industry, veteran singer Hariharan has voiced his support for the composer’s observations. Speaking alongside long-time collaborator Leslie Lewis, Hariharan acknowledged that power dynamics in the industry have shifted over the past few years, leaving fewer people with a true understanding of music at the decision-making table.

Supporting Rahman’s Remarks
The Oscar-winning composer had recently claimed in an interview that his reduced work in Bollywood over the past eight years may have been influenced by “communal factors.” While the comments ignited a heated debate, Rahman later clarified his position, emphasizing that the issue largely relates to creative control and industry politics.

Having worked with Rahman on films like Roja and lent his voice to iconic songs like “Tu Hi Re,” Hariharan agreed that today, decisions about music are often made by individuals who may lack a deep understanding of the art. “I wish there were more creative people—or at least people who truly understand music—making these decisions,” he said. “Just like Rahman, I feel that now, those who aren’t creative hold the power.”

Focus on Creativity, Not Just Money
Hariharan stressed the importance of prioritizing creativity over commercial considerations. “You should think about creativity first and money second. If art is only about money, who knows what the future holds?”

Leslie Lewis Confirms Industry Changes
Leslie Lewis, who collaborated with Rahman on Mani Ratnam’s Bombay (1995), also acknowledged the shift in industry power. “It’s no longer just the old players,” he said. “New people with new ideas have entered, and digital platforms have completely changed the rules.”

He added, “Earlier, those judging us had experience and a creative mindset. Today, it’s very corporate. The decision-makers may love music, but they don’t always have the experience to identify the right talent.”

Backing from Mira Chopra
Producer Mira Chopra, working with Rahman on the upcoming silent film Gandhi Talks, defended the composer, stating, “Religion has nothing to do with getting work. Only two Indians have truly brought India to the global stage in a way the world recognizes—Priyanka Chopra and AR Rahman. Trolling him for something he never intended is wrong and shameful.”

The Controversial Statement
In his interview with BBC Asian Network, Rahman reflected on the early years of his career, noting that even after the success of Subhash Ghai’s 1999 hit Taal, he sometimes felt like an outsider in the Hindi film industry. He said, “Perhaps I was unaware of certain things, or maybe God kept them hidden. But in the last eight years, power has shifted. Decisions are now made by people who are not creative. Whether it’s communal or not, I don’t know—but I see that the composers they book may later be replaced by five others hired by music companies.”

Kangana Ranaut Responds
Rahman’s remarks faced criticism from several corners. Actress-filmmaker and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut responded sharply, claiming that Rahman had previously refused to discuss providing music for her period political drama Emergency.