Music genius A R Rahman is a past master in handling ticklish situations. The man doesn't need any new lessons in avoiding minefields that the media may have laid for him. A few days back Bollywood singer Abhijit said a few unpalatable things about the Mozart of Madras.

And when Rahman's attention was drawn towards that by the media, in the hope of keeping the pot of controversy boiling, the multiple Grammy and Oscar winner delightfully deadbatted the whole thing with his disarming ways.

It is not clear what is prompting singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya to take repeated potshots at Rahman, under whom he has sung only a couple of  songs --- Ae Nazneen Suno Na (Dil Hi Dil Mein, 1999) and Teri Meri Baat (Sapnay, 1997). Abhijeet recently cavilled at the amount of time spent by many waiting for Rahman at his studio in Madras.  Abhijit claimed that Rahman making renowned artists wait for hours during recording sessions is disrespectful.

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Abhijeet also waded into Rahman for what he perceives as an over-reliance on digital tools, claiming it has sidelined live musicians and diminished the essence of traditional instrumentation. "Rahman saab has made it all about laptops and software, leaving no room for live performers," he opined.

But in a recent interview to India Today, when Rahman's response was sought, he addressed  it with his usual grace and composure. "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."

On the issue of employing technology in music, the master music director said computers are tools for designing harmonies and refining music. "We can’t afford to call in musicians to record and reject takes repeatedly. All preliminary work is done digitally, and the final recordings are always done live." Rahman emphasised that his use of technology is not about replacing live musicians but enhancing the creative process. 

On supporting musicians, Rahman added: "I recently set up an orchestra with 60 women in Dubai. They are employed every month and receive insurance, health benefits, and everything. In every movie I work on, whether it’s Chhaava or Ponniyin Selvan, there are around 200-300 musicians involved. Some songs have over 100 people working on them."

A controversy died then and there. 

One more Oscar perhaps for Rahman for defusing a pointless exchange from exploding further?

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