'How would Shah Rukh, Salman, Aamir become stars?': Arun Govil rejects AR Rahman's communal bias claim

Arun Govil has responded to Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman’s recent remarks, firmly rejecting the suggestion that communal bias exists within the Hindi film industry. Rahman’s comments, made during an interview with BBC Asian Network, sparked debate after he said shifting power structures in music may “might be a communal thing.”

Speaking to PTI on the sidelines of an event organised by FWICE and the Cine Artiste Welfare Trust, Govil dismissed the claim outright. “In our industry, it has never happened where people have not got work due to communal bias,” he said. There are examples of this in our industry. People of every religion have worked, and even today, there is no such thing.”

Govil strengthened his argument by pointing to some of Hindi cinema’s biggest names. “Earlier, we’ve had actors like Dilip Kumar, who was the king of the industry in his time. Even today, Shah Rukh, Salman, Aamir, they are all stars. If there were communal bias, how would they have become stars?”

Rahman’s original statement came while discussing changes in creative control within the industry. “People who are not creative have the power now to decide things, and this might have been a communal thing also, but not in my face,” Rahman said. He added that such decisions often reached him indirectly, comparing the process to “Chinese whispers.”

Following criticism, Rahman later issued a video clarification. He said his words were misunderstood and stressed that music has always helped him connect with India’s diversity. Reaffirming his respect for the country’s multicultural ethos, Rahman said he never intended to hurt sentiments. He highlighted several inclusive projects from his career, adding that his commitment remains with music as a unifying force.

The exchange has triggered wider discussion about representation and opportunity in Indian cinema, with contrasting views emerging from across the industry. While Rahman’s remarks continue to be debated, Govil’s comments underline a belief that Bollywood’s history reflects inclusion rather than division, even as conversations around power, access, and influence persist. The debate is likely to continue as artists, audiences, and industry voices interpret the remarks through their own experiences and expectations. For now, both stand by their positions.