AR Rahman On Abhijeet’s Criticism: I’d Still Send Him Cakes

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI- Renowned composer AR Rahman has responded with grace and good humor to recent criticism by playback singer Abhijeet, who accused him of overusing technology in music production and sidelining traditional instrumentalists.

In a recent interview with India Today, Rahman addressed the remarks, saying, “It’s nice to blame me for everything. I still love Abhijeet, and I would send cakes to him. Also, it’s his opinion, and there’s nothing wrong with having one.”

Abhijeet had claimed that Rahman’s reliance on digital tools had contributed to the decline of live instrumentation in the industry. Dismissing the notion, Rahman shared, “I recently set up an orchestra of 60 women in Dubai. They’re employed every month with full benefits, including insurance and health coverage.”

He further added that his film scores continue to involve large numbers of live musicians. “In every movie I do—whether it’s Chhaava or Ponniyin Selvan—I work with 200 to 300 musicians. Some songs feature over 100 people. I just don’t post photos, so no one sees it.”

Rahman emphasized that technology is used as a tool to enhance musical expression, not replace it. “We design harmonies using computers, yes—but in a competitive market, I can’t afford to call musicians and reject their work. Every producer I’ve worked with knows how many artists we involve.”

The Oscar-winning composer recently scored hits in  Chhaava sand Kadhalikka Neramillai in Tamil. He is currently working on Lahore 1947 (produced by Aamir Khan), Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life, and Aanand L. Rai’s Tere Ishq Mein.