Vicky Kaushal’s historical epic Chhaava ruled the box office through most of 2025, becoming one of the year’s biggest blockbusters before Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar finally overtook it in December. But while the film enjoyed record-breaking commercial success, it also sparked intense controversy — particularly over its portrayal of the conflict between Maratha warrior-king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Now, music maestro A. R. Rahman has broken his silence on the debate, openly acknowledging that the film was indeed divisive.
Following its theatrical release, Chhaava triggered unrest in parts of Maharashtra, with reports of riots in Nagpur. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis later stated that the violence stemmed from public anger over Aurangzeb’s depiction in the film. As the debate around artistic freedom versus historical sensitivity grew louder, Rahman’s candid remarks have now added a new layer to the discussion.
In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Rahman spoke about creating art in an increasingly polarised environment. Addressing the responsibility of artists during such times, he said, “That’s the reason God is giving more power to people like us — so we can replace the bad with good through word, action, and art.” His statement reflected a belief that artists hold a moral responsibility to heal rather than divide.
When asked whether today’s divisive climate has made him more cautious about choosing projects, Rahman admitted that intention plays a key role in his decisions. “Some films are made with bad intention. I try to avoid those movies,” he said, making it clear that purpose matters more than popularity.
Rahman also addressed his earlier statement about being proud of Chhaava’s soundtrack despite the controversy surrounding the film. Confronting the contradiction, he stated honestly, “It is a divisive film. I think it cashed in on divisiveness, but the core of it is to show bravery.” He revealed that he had even questioned the director about why he was chosen for the project. “I asked him, ‘Why do you need me for this film?’ And he said, ‘We need only you,’” Rahman recalled.
Despite acknowledging the polarising elements, Rahman expressed faith in the audience’s intelligence. “It is an enjoyable film, but people are smarter than that. They have an internal conscience that knows the truth and recognises manipulation,” he said.
The composer also shared how honoured he felt to work on a film centered on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, calling the character “the blood of every Maratha.” He described the film’s emotional climax as deeply moving and said he was proud to have scored a story that carries “the pulse and soul of every Maratha.”
However, Rahman didn’t shy away from calling out cinematic clichés either. Addressing scenes where characters shout religious phrases during violent moments, he dismissed such portrayals as lazy stereotypes, bluntly calling them “cringe.”
Ending on a hopeful note, Rahman said he has immense faith in humanity, believing people possess conscience, compassion, and the ability to see beyond misinformation.