The Clashing Titans: Dissent and Defense in Indian Cinema
In a fiery session at the Kerala Literature Festival, veteran actor and activist Prakash Raj did not mince words while addressing the growing culture of silencing dissent. Participating in a discussion titled “Criminalising Dissent! Who Gets Locked Up for Speaking Out?”, Raj used the recent spat between music maestro AR Rahman and actor-politician Kangana Ranaut as a prime example of how the public discourse has shifted toward hostility.
Raj passionately reminded the audience of Rahman’s contributions to the nation, referencing global hits like “Maa Tujhe Salaam” and his historic double Oscar win.
“You rejoiced when he brought home the Oscars. For your kind information, he is not begging for work; he is beyond that. He just said the truth, and look at the barking which has started,” Prakash Raj remarked, taking a direct swipe at the backlash Rahman has faced.
The ‘Emergency’ Fallout
The friction began when Kangana Ranaut publicly lashed out at the composer on social media. She claimed that Rahman had refused to even meet her for a narration of her directorial venture, Emergency, labeling it a “propaganda film.” In a stinging Instagram post, Ranaut called Rahman “prejudiced and hateful,” even going as far as to suggest his refusal was rooted in an “anti-national” sentiment.
Prakash Raj, however, flipped the narrative, defending Rahman’s right to choose his projects. He dismissed Ranaut’s claims that her film is a “classic,” instead doubling down on the “propaganda” label.
“A lady director and actress suddenly calls him an anti-national simply because he did not work for her,” Raj stated. “She calls her film a classic, while others see it for what it is. Look at what is happening around you.”
Context of the Controversy
The tension originally ignited when Rahman, in an interview with the BBC Asian Network, described the film Chhaava (2025) as “divisive” and hinted that “communal factors” might be affecting his opportunities in the Hindi film industry. While these comments drew heavy fire from right-wing circles, Rahman later issued a video statement clarifying his stance, reaffirming his unwavering love for India and stating he never intended to cause pain.
Current Standings
As the verbal war continues, both artists remain busy with high-profile projects.
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AR Rahman is currently prepping for his ‘Wonderment Tour’ and scoring the upcoming epic Ramayana.
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Kangana Ranaut has moved on to her next project, Bharatha Bhagya Vidhata.
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Prakash Raj continues to be a vocal critic of what he perceives as the “criminalization of thought” in modern India.