Rani Mukerji Disagrees With AR Rahman, Says Bollywood Is the ‘Most Secular Place’

Actor Rani Mukerji has reacted to Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman’s recent remarks about alleged “communal” bias in Bollywood, firmly disagreeing with his views. The actress said that in her nearly three-decade-long career, she has never faced discrimination and believes the Hindi film industry remains a secular and merit-driven space.

Rani’s comments come amid an ongoing debate sparked by Rahman’s interview with the BBC Asian Network, where he spoke about changing power dynamics in Bollywood and suggested that communal factors may have affected his work opportunities.

Rani Mukerji: “Bollywood Is the Most Secular Place”

In an interview with DD News, Rani Mukerji, who is currently promoting her latest release Mardaani 3, said she does not agree with the narrative of communal bias in the Hindi film industry.

“Bollywood is the most secular place, and I truly believe that. There is no discrimination based on caste or religion,” she said. “In my 30 years in the industry, I have never experienced anything like this. I love this industry—it made me who I am today.”

The actress added that talent and audience connection ultimately decide success in cinema. “I am saying this from the bottom of my heart: here, merit matters. Your work speaks for you, and ultimately, the person the audience connects with is the one who survives and succeeds. For me, Bollywood remains the most secular and one of the most amazing places to be.”

On Industry Lobbies and Personal Priorities

When asked about the alleged existence of lobbies in Bollywood, Rani said she prefers to stay away from such discussions. “I stay far away from all of that. I only focus on my films, and at this stage of my life, my priority is my child and my family,” she said.

What AR Rahman Said in His Interview

AR Rahman, in a recent interview with BBC Asian Network, spoke about receiving less work in Bollywood over the past several years. He attributed this to shifting power dynamics, stating that decision-making is increasingly controlled by non-creative individuals.

“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, adding that he often hears about lost projects through “Chinese whispers.”

The remarks triggered widespread debate and criticism on social media.

Rahman Issues Clarification

Following the backlash, Rahman released a video message clarifying his intent. He said he never meant to hurt sentiments and stressed his deep respect for India and its culture.

“Music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating, and honouring our culture. India is my inspiration, my teacher, and my home,” he said, adding that his purpose has always been to uplift and serve through music.

About Mardaani 3

Mardaani 3, directed by Abhiraj Minawala, sees Rani Mukerji reprise her role as IPS officer Shivani Shivaji Roy. The film released in theatres on January 30, 2026, and has opened to mixed-to-positive reactions, with particular praise for Rani’s performance.