From his very first film 'Roja', he has tugged at heartstrings with riveting melodies that speak of patriotism and peace in India. But when music maestro AR Rahman chose to speak out on Friday about the brutal murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh, he was told to leave the country that he has composed many tributes to.
Rahman was attending the premiere of his film One Heart: The AR Rahman Concert Film on Thursday in Mumbai, when he was asked to comment on Gauri’s murder in Karnataka. His immediate response was, "I am so, so sad about that. I hope these things don't happen in India. If these things happen in India, then it is not my India. I want my India to be progressive and kind."
This statement has landed him in trouble online, as trolls have gone on overdrive to criticise the music director. Many have even told him to relocate to Pakistan.
If any one not feeling good here, don't like India can go to Pakistan or syria
— Umesh Rajbhar (@UmeshRajbhar123) September 8, 2017
जिहादी, कभी नही सुधार सकते।
— Mementowala (@Mementowala) September 8, 2017
Can't believe, AR Rahman is supporting the anti nationals! Had so much respect for him.
— Monica Sharma (@monicasharma93) September 9, 2017
Sad.
During a recent Terror Attack in Europe he gave an evasive reply ..but suddenly found energy now
— Vikas Chawla (@vikaschawla6) September 8, 2017
india chi do na
— vibhavari (@vibhava05534065) September 9, 2017
Others warned Rahman not to comment on matters not pertaining to his music.
hey Mr A.R.Rehman you a good singer and musician the best gift u have got from god please be on it only ye political line me mat joa
— Sameer Kumar Verma (@sameerverma812) September 9, 2017
Why is HE made talk about it ?
— Jai Hariwan (@Jai_Hariwan) September 8, 2017
But some took to playing the religion card.
Issuing a fatwa is so progressive that Mr Rehman never spoke
— Yogesh Kaushik (@yogesh_kaushik) September 8, 2017
India is already very kind and progressive. That's why adopted everyone. No need of your words
— shubham gauatm (@shubhamg1986) September 10, 2017
However, the two-time Oscar Award winner was not forced to fight alone. Angry fans hit back at trolls for questioning Rahman's right to comment on the matter.
There are people like A.R. Rahman who makes
— Phil (@MinstrelofSound) September 9, 2017
India proud, and then there are blind, backward-thinking bhakts, like you.
Where's shame in condemning killing (whoever it is) and hoping for a progressive kind country Ma'am? #GauriLankeshMurder
— SAHIL (@iamSahilSin) September 9, 2017
Yes he is because of india. Wen somethin is not gng ryt. He has every ryt to say so. Jus lyk u hve d ryt to speak ur mind. Hes an indian too
— GURU (@guru2709) September 9, 2017
@arrahman It is tragic! & dangerous! #GauriLankeshMurder has exposed yet again dark side of our nation. I'm sure killers will be caught soon
— Anju Chandel (@AnjuChandel) September 8, 2017
He's one among the very few who makes india and indians proud. And you want him out of the country.
— Gangadhar M (@Mothalaali) September 9, 2017
What was wrong with rahman's statement? I found nothing objectionable...
— Confused (@Pradeepdxt) September 9, 2017