Mumbai: Actor Paresh Rawal expressed his love for AR Rahman after the singer opened up about his bond with India, music and culture following the reaction of Indian celebs over his controversial comments against Bollywood.
Paresh Rawal reshared the video on his X handle, calling the AR Rahman singer the “pride” of the country.
Paresh Rawal wrote, “We love you sir. You are our pride.”
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We love you sir. You are our pride. https://t.co/5a4bfXTYiD– Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) 18 January 2026
Earlier today, music maestro AR Rahman shared his first post after the controversy over his controversial comments made about Bollywood, which drew reactions from across Indian cinema.
On Sunday, Rahman shared a video message on his Instagram account. In the clip, he did not directly address the controversy, but talked about his bond with India, music and culture.
In his video message, the Oscar-winning composer explained how music has always been his way of staying connected to people and traditions. He further stated that his “intentions” may sometimes be “misunderstood”, but his intention has always been to serve through music.
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Rahman said, “Dear friends, music has always been my way of connecting, celebrating and honoring a culture. India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home. I understand that intentions can sometimes be misunderstood, but my aim has always been to uplift, honor and serve through music.”
He said, “I have never wished to cause hurt and I hope my sincerity is felt. I feel blessed to be Indian, which enables me to create a space that always allows freedom of expression and celebrates multicultural voices.”
“From nurturing Jaala, presenting at the Wave Summit in front of the Honorable Prime Minister and Ruhi Noor, to creating a string orchestra together with young Naga musicians, to guiding Sunshine Orchestra and creating India’s first multicultural virtual band Secret Mountain, to the honor of composing the music for Ramayan with Hans Zimmer, each journey has strengthened my purpose. I am grateful for it and remain committed to music that honors the past, Celebrates the present and inspires the future. Jai Hind and Jai Bharat,” he further said.
The controversy began when Rahman said in an interview with BBC Asian Network that work had slowed down for him in the Hindi film industry in recent years and linked this to changes in the industry over the past eight years. That interview was followed by reactions from both fans and film personalities.