Rani Mukerji Says Bollywood Is Secular, Merit-Driven in Response to AR Rahman Comments

Veteran Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji has publicly responded to the controversy triggered by AR Rahman’s recent remarks suggesting that the Hindi film industry’s changing power dynamics over the past several years may have “communal” undertones. Mukerji — currently promoting her film Mardaani 3 — strongly rejected the idea that Bollywood is biased, describing it instead as one of the most secular and inclusive spaces she has experienced in her nearly three-decade career.

In a recent interview with DD News, Mukerji said she has never seen discrimination based on caste or religion in the industry and emphasised that talent and merit remain the true determinants of success. “Your work speaks for you, and ultimately, the person the audience connects with is the one who survives and succeeds,” she told reporters, underscoring her belief that fair artistic opportunity prevails in Bollywood.

Mukerji also addressed the notion of informal “lobbies” or social groupings within the industry, saying she deliberately stays away from such circles and focuses on her craft, family and professional priorities. Her remarks reflect a broader industry pushback against Rahman’s comments, highlighting differing perspectives on inclusivity and fairness in Bollywood’s working environment.

Rahman’s original comments — made in a BBC Asian Network interview — drew wide attention after he spoke about a shift in decision-making power in Bollywood towards people he described as “not creative,” and hinted that it “might have been a communal thing.” The composer later clarified his intentions via a social media video, saying he never meant to hurt sentiments and that his purpose in music has always been to uplift and celebrate culture.