While promoting Mardaani 3, Rani Mukherjee said that she has never seen discrimination in her 30 years of career. He described Bollywood as the most secular and inclusive workplace in the country, where only merit and work get recognition.
Rani Mukerji’s blunt words to AR RahmanDuring the promotions of Mardaani 3, Rani Mukherjee said that she never faced discrimination in her three-decade-long Bollywood career. Describing the film industry as inclusive, the actress said that she believes Bollywood is one of the most secular workplaces in the country.
Reacting to the recent statement given by Oscar winner musician AR Rahman on the changes taking place in Bollywood, actress Rani Mukherjee presented a different vision based on her experience. A few days ago, Rahman had created a controversy by saying that the control of non-creative decision makers over creative is increasing and he had also indicated that communal factors can also play a role in this.
Rani Mukherjee told the reality of Bollywood
In an interview given to DD News during the promotion of the film ‘Mardaani 3’, Rani said that she never faced discrimination in her three decade long Bollywood career. Describing the film industry as inclusive, the actress said that she believes Bollywood is one of the most secular workplaces in the country.
“Bollywood is the most secular place, and I believe in it completely. There is no discrimination based on caste or religion. I have never seen anything like this in my 30 years of experience in the industry. I love this industry, it has made me who I am today.
“I say this from the heart. Merit matters here. Your work is your identity, and ultimately, what the audience connects with is what survives and succeeds. For me, Bollywood is one of the most secular and most wonderful places,” Rani added.
Answering questions related to the existence of lobbies in the film industry, Rani thought it better to keep herself away from these discussions. She told that she likes to focus on her work and keeps her personal priorities clear.
AR Rahman’s controversial statement
Rahman made these statements in an interview with BBC Asian Network, where he highlighted his experience as a Tamil music director working in Bollywood. He told how despite initial discussions, many projects were lost and decisions were often influenced by people who did not have a creative background. He also said that even though communal factors may not have come to light directly, he had heard about them through indirect conversations.
Following criticism over his comments, Rahman issued a clarification on social media. In a video message, he reiterated his respect for India, calling it his home and inspiration. He acknowledged that his words may have been misunderstood and clarified that his intention was never to hurt anyone’s sentiments, but to serve and uplift through his music.