Renowned composer A.R. Rahman has become the centre of a growing controversy following his recent collaboration with choreographer Jani Bashar, who is currently facing accusations of sexual harassment and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The dispute erupted after a photograph of Rahman and Bashar together was widely circulated on social media, quickly going viral and prompting a wave of criticism from fans and commentators alike.
Reports from Indian media indicate that the controversy traces back to 2019, when Rahman composed the song Chikiri Chikiri for the film Peddi. While the music was widely acclaimed, Bashar, who choreographed the sequence, has since been implicated in multiple cases of alleged sexual misconduct.
Following the release of the photo online, Bashar posted on his social media expressing his admiration for Rahman and his excitement at working with him. He wrote, “I grew up listening to his music. Today, I get to choreograph for a song composed by him. This is a dream come true for me.” The post rapidly attracted attention and became the focal point of intense online debate.
The backlash has raised questions over Rahman’s decision to collaborate with an individual facing serious legal allegations. Social media users, film critics, and members of the public have debated whether such professional partnerships undermine ethical standards within the entertainment industry. Many argue that prominent artists carry a responsibility to consider the reputational and moral implications of their collaborations.
Industry insiders note that this controversy also highlights the broader issue of accountability in the creative arts, particularly when individuals with acclaimed careers engage in projects alongside those under legal scrutiny. The debate has prompted discussions about whether the pursuit of artistic excellence should outweigh public perception and ethical considerations.
A summary of the key elements of the controversy is outlined below:
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Composer | A.R. Rahman |
| Choreographer | Jani Bashar |
| Allegations Against Choreographer | Sexual harassment, POCSO Act violations |
| Original Collaboration | Song: Chikiri Chikiri (Film: Peddi, 2019) |
| Trigger | Viral social media photograph of Rahman and Bashar |
| Public Response | Widespread criticism, debate on ethical collaboration |
| Current Issue | Whether Rahman should continue working with Bashar |
As the debate continues, Rahman has not publicly commented on the controversy. Observers suggest that the situation may influence not only the reception of the current project but also broader conversations about ethics, accountability, and artistic collaboration in the Indian film industry.