Music composer Ismail Darbar has responded to recent comments by AR Rahman about facing communal bias in Bollywood. His remarks have reignited the discussion on talent, recognition and religion in the Indian music industry. Read on to know what he said!
Ismail Darbar Hits Back At AR Rahman Over His Communal Remark
Speaking to Subhojit Ghosh on YouTube, Darbar dismissed Rahman’s claim of facing discrimination. He said, “If the industry were communal, then no Muslim in this country would have become a star. There would not have been Ismail Darbar, Naushad or Dilip Kumar. They wouldn’t have become stars if this were the case.”
Darbar also criticised Rahman’s music and added, “It is all about talent and your fate. Also, what deficiency do you have in life that your stomach is not getting filled? God has given you everything, so live nicely. You are very talented; you design sounds very nicely. You don’t make good songs, but you are a good sound designer.”
DON'T MISS
What AR Rahman Said
In January 2026, AR Rahman said in a BBC Asian Network interview that a “communal thing” might have affected his Bollywood opportunities over the last eight years. He suggested that corporate decisions and project reassignments could be responsible.
The comments drew criticism from industry veterans, including Javed Akhtar, and backlash from organisations like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). Union Minister G Kishan Reddy called the statement “false and unfortunate.”
Rahman later clarified on Instagram that his remarks were misunderstood. He reaffirmed India as his “inspiration and home.” On February 24, 2026, he announced a 40-day social media break while continuing work on major projects, including the Ramayana score.
About Ismail Darbar
Ismail Darbar is a celebrated composer best known for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s films, including Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999) and Devdas (2002). His work has won multiple awards, including a National Film Award. Darbar has also judged reality singing shows such as Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge (2005, 2007), Amul Star Voice of India 2 and Bharat Ki Shaan: Singing Star Season 2, establishing him as a respected figure in the music industry.
