Daijiworld Media Network – Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Jan 24: Music maestro AR Rahman delivered a power-packed performance at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on January 23, drawing massive crowds and widespread attention amid ongoing controversy over his recent remarks on Bollywood and the film Chhaava.

Videos from the concert quickly surfaced on social media, with fans highlighting that Rahman performed patriotic classics Vande Mataram/Maa Tujhe Salaam and Jana Gana Mana, drawing loud cheers from the packed arena.

Renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, who attended the concert, praised Rahman’s performance in a post on X, calling it “exhilarating”. “20,000 people cheering, singing, dancing and even crying to Rahman’s beautiful soulful songs,” Kapur wrote, describing the event as a deeply emotional experience.

Several fans shared clips of Rahman singing Vande Mataram, with one user stating that the performance was a fitting response to his critics. According to attendees, Rahman initially appeared to conclude the nearly four-hour-long concert with Chaiyya Chaiyya, but surprised the audience by returning for one final song, leading the entire arena in Vande Mataram.

Another video revealed that Rahman opened the concert with Jana Gana Mana from Mani Ratnam’s Aayutha Ezhuthu. Lifestyle influencer Prince, who also attended the show, said Rahman began with several South Indian compositions before moving on to his Hindi hits. He added that Rahman also performed his Oscar-winning song Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire during the concert.

The concert comes amid backlash over Rahman’s comments in an interview with the BBC Asian Network, where he suggested that a “power shift” in Bollywood over the past eight years may have affected his work opportunities, adding that it “might be a communal thing”. He also criticised Chhaava for, according to him, cashing in on divisiveness.

Singer Chinmayi Sripaada came out in Rahman’s defence after claims surfaced that he had once refused to sing Vande Mataram. Rahman’s children — Khatija, Raheema and Ameen — also publicly supported him. Addressing the controversy, Rahman later released a video reaffirming his love for the country, stating, “India is my inspiration, my teacher and my home. I understand that intentions can sometimes be misunderstood.”

UAE’s first female filmmaker Naya Al Khaja also voiced support for the composer, as fans continued to rally behind him following the Abu Dhabi concert.