Chinmayi Sripada Defends AR Rahman Over Vande Mataram Refusal Claims

In a recent social media outburst, renowned playback singer Chinmayi Sripada has come out strongly against baseless allegations circulating online about music maestro AR Rahman. The claims, which resurfaced from an alleged old interview, suggest that Rahman refused to sing ‘Vande Mataram’ due to personal or ideological reasons. Chinmayi, known for her vocal stance on social issues, took to her X (formerly Twitter) account to debunk these rumors, calling them “malicious misinformation” aimed at tarnishing Rahman’s legacy.

Chinmayi emphasized that the video in question has been taken out of context and edited to mislead viewers. She clarified that Rahman has always expressed deep respect for India’s national symbols, including ‘Vande Mataram’. In fact, the Oscar-winning composer has a history of contributing to patriotic songs and soundtracks that celebrate the nation’s spirit. “AR Rahman is one of the most patriotic artists we have. These lies are disgusting,” she posted, urging her followers to fact-check before sharing such content.

The controversy appears to stem from a 2013 interview clip where Rahman discussed his artistic choices, but nowhere did he refuse to sing the anthem. Social media sleuths and fact-checking platforms have since confirmed the video’s manipulation, highlighting how deepfakes and selective editing are fueling divisive narratives in the digital age. Chinmayi’s intervention has sparked widespread support from fans and industry peers, who praised her for standing up against fake news.

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This isn’t the first time Rahman has faced such scrutiny. Over the years, the ‘Mozart of Madras’ has been targeted by trolls for his progressive views on religion and music. However, his body of work, including compositions for films like ‘Lagaan’ and ‘Jodhaa Akbar’, speaks volumes about his commitment to Indian culture. Chinmayi’s defense has reignited discussions on the ethical use of social media, reminding netizens of the power and peril of viral content.

As the dust settles, Rahman’s team has yet to issue an official statement, but the incident underscores the need for greater media literacy. In an era where misinformation spreads faster than truth, voices like Chinmayi’s play a crucial role in protecting reputations and promoting unity. Fans hope this will put an end to the smear campaign once and for all.

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