Abhijeet Bhattacharya makes a BIG CLAIM and recalls a DISHEARTENING EXPERIENCE from collab with A.R Rahman

Veteran playback singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya has revealed a disheartening experience from his sole collaboration with Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman. In a recent interview, he expressed disappointment over the perceived lack of respect shown towards national award-winning artists during a recording session for the 1999 film "Dil Hi Dil Mein."

The song "Ae Nazneen Suno Na" marked the only instance where the two musical giants worked together, but the experience left a bitter taste for Abhijeet. He claimed that Rahman would frequently make acclaimed singers, composers, and lyricists wait for hours at his studio, often without even meeting them. This was particularly disheartening for Abhijeet, as many of these artists were recipients of prestigious Indian civilian awards like the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan.

Perhaps the collaboration could have been more harmonious had there been a greater emphasis on mutual respect and appreciation for the contributions of all involved.

Rahman saab ke andar kya hai ki… maine aise-aise Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri walo ko neeche bench pe baithe hue dekha hai… Rahman saab utar hi nahin rahe hain neeche do ghante, teen ghante(What surprises me is that I saw Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri awardees sitting downstairs on a bench. Rahman sir didn’t come down for two, sometimes three hours)

- Abhijeet Bhattacharya

Abhijeet described the scene, stating, "Sab ek doosre se gappe laga rahe hain. Maine apni ghadi dekha ki jaldi karo. Phir Rahman saab nahi utre," implying that Rahman had kept them waiting without explanation or interaction. He further elaborated that the artists, despite their accomplishments and stature, were simply engaging in casual conversation to pass the time while waiting.

Abhijeet also shared how his own recording was handled. “Main gaana gaa ke nikal gaya, uske assistant ne record kar liya. Ae Nazneen Suno Na… ye gaana gaya. Aur gaa ke nikal gaya(I recorded the song, and his assistant handled the session. I sang Ae Nazneen Suno Na and left)," he said.

Abhijeet's remarks have sparked debate, particularly considering the widespread admiration for Rahman's work within the global music scene. Having garnered prestigious accolades including two Academy Awards, two Grammy Awards, a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, and India's Padma Bhushan in 2010, Rahman is renowned for his quiet demeanor and unconventional approach to studio production. However, Abhijeet's account presents a contrasting perspective, suggesting that this creative process may have left some veteran artists feeling disregarded.

India's highest civilian awards, the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan, recognize exceptional contributions across various fields, including the arts. While Abhijeet has not received these honors, he has consistently spoken out about industry practices, unafraid to highlight perceived double standards or a lack of professionalism.

"Dil Hi Dil Mein," the Hindi adaptation of the Tamil romantic drama "Kadhalar Dhinam," featured a soundtrack composed by Rahman that was praised for its romantic and experimental qualities. Abhijeet's rendition of "Ae Nazneen Suno Na" became a standout track on the album. However, the professional relationship between the two artists remained limited to this single project, despite the song's success.