RGV backtracks after claiming AR Rahman didn’t compose ‘Jai Ho’
The world of Indian cinema is no stranger to controversy, and the latest storm to brew in the industry has left many fans and music lovers stunned. In a shocking claim, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma recently stated that the Oscar-winning song ‘Jai Ho’ from the movie Slumdog Millionaire was not composed by the legendary AR Rahman, but by singer Sukhwinder Singh. However, soon after the clip resurfaced, Varma was quick to backtrack, claiming that he was misquoted and taken out of context.
For those who may not be aware, ‘Jai Ho’ is one of the most iconic and beloved songs in Indian cinema history. Composed by AR Rahman, with lyrics by Gulzar and vocals by Sukhwinder Singh, Tanvi Shah, and Mahalaxmi Iyer, the song won several prestigious awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2009. The song’s success was a milestone moment for Indian music, marking a new era of global recognition and appreciation for the country’s rich musical heritage.
The controversy began when an old clip of Ram Gopal Varma surfaced, in which he can be seen claiming that Sukhwinder Singh, not AR Rahman, was the true composer of ‘Jai Ho’. The clip sparked a heated debate on social media, with many fans and music enthusiasts expressing their outrage and disappointment at Varma’s statement. AR Rahman’s fans, in particular, were quick to come to the composer’s defense, pointing out that there was no credible evidence to support Varma’s claim.
However, soon after the clip resurfaced, Ram Gopal Varma took to social media to clarify his stance. In a statement, he claimed that he was being misquoted and misread out of context. “I’m being misquoted and misread out of context,” Varma said. “AR Rahman is the greatest composer and nicest person I ever met. He’s the last person to take away anybody’s credit.” Varma’s clarification was seen as a welcome move, as it helped to diffuse the tension and put an end to the controversy.
It’s worth noting that Ram Gopal Varma is known for his provocative statements and outspoken views on the Indian film industry. While his comments often spark interesting debates and discussions, they can also be misleading and hurtful to others. In this case, Varma’s claim about ‘Jai Ho’ was not only factually incorrect but also damaging to AR Rahman’s reputation and legacy.
AR Rahman, on the other hand, is widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential composers in Indian cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, he has composed music for numerous iconic films, including Roja, Bombay, Dil Se, and Slumdog Millionaire. His work has been widely acclaimed, both in India and internationally, and he has won numerous awards for his contributions to music.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Ram Gopal Varma’s claim about ‘Jai Ho’ is a reminder of the importance of verifying facts and being mindful of the impact of our words on others. While it’s okay to have differing opinions and perspectives, it’s essential to respect the truth and give credit where it’s due. AR Rahman’s composition of ‘Jai Ho’ is a testament to his genius and creativity, and it’s essential to recognize and appreciate his contribution to Indian music.
As the dust settles on this controversy, it’s clear that AR Rahman’s legacy remains intact, and his music continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world. Ram Gopal Varma’s clarification is a welcome move, and it’s hoped that in the future, he will be more mindful of the impact of his words on others.
About the Author
