Indian singer and music composer Salim Merchant shared his reaction to recent remarks by A.R. Rahman about possible communal bias in the film industry, saying he personally did not believe such an issue existed in Rahman’s case.

Speaking to Indo-Asian News Service, Salim said it was difficult for him to think that Rahman was facing communal discrimination, especially when the Oscar-winning composer had been working on one of the biggest mythological films in Indian cinema.

“I don’t think that is true. With all due respect to what Rahman said, he may be right from his own experience,” Salim said. “But if a composer is working on a film based on the Hindu epic Ramayana, which is one of the largest productions in Indian cinema, then I don’t think there is any communal problem. That is my view, though he might have his own reasons.”

Rahman had earlier stated about receiving fewer opportunities in Bollywood during a conversation with BBC Asian Network. In that interview, he suggested that decision- making in the industry sometimes rested with people who were not directly involved in the creative process.

“People who are not creative have the power now to decide things,” Rahman said in the interview. He added that he sometimes heard indirectly that projects initially offered to him were later given to several other composers.

Following criticism and online reactions to the statement, the Nee Singam Dhan singer later shared a message clarifying his intentions. He said music had always been a way for him to connect with people and celebrate culture.

“India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home,” Rahman said in the statement. “My purpose has always been to uplift and honour through music. I never intended to hurt anyone’s sentiments.”

Rahman had composed music for many films across different industries. His recent work included projects such as Ponniyin Selvan, Ayalaan, and Raayan in Tamil cinema.