Bollywood’s lyrical genius Javed Akhtar has taken a strong stance against AR Rahman’s assertion that even petite producers tremble in the face of industry giants. The double Oscar winner’s observation, shared at a forum on artistic autonomy, painted a picture of widespread apprehension stifling creativity across all levels.

Responding swiftly, Akhtar labeled the comment as out of touch. ‘Producers fear? Try being a lyricist negotiating your dues,’ he quipped, drawing from decades of experience penning timeless tracks for films like Sholay and 1942: A Love Story. Akhtar’s rebuttal spotlights the real vulnerabilities: writers, composers, and crew members who bear the brunt without safety nets.

Rahman’s words resonated initially, echoing tales of aggressive tactics by big banners that silence dissent. He recounted instances where fear of blacklisting prevents open criticism, affecting project choices and personal expression. But Akhtar flips the narrative, insisting producers hold the purse strings and thus the real power, often prioritizing profits over people.

This public back-and-forth has reignited calls for unionization and transparent contracts in Mumbai’s dream factory. With streaming giants entering the fray, pressures have intensified, making such debates timely. Akhtar, a vocal critic of regressive practices, urges collective action, while Rahman’s global lens brings international best practices into focus.

Observers note the duo’s mutual respect despite differences—Rahman has scored for Akhtar-penned films before. Yet this episode reveals fault lines in an industry worth billions. As hashtags trend and panels convene, Bollywood braces for potential shifts in how fear is confronted and creativity protected.