Recently, A.R. Rahman raised concerns about receiving less work in Bollywood, prompting discussions on discrimination within the film industry. In response, music composer Salim Merchant shared his perspective in an interview, expressing respect for Rahman's experiences but stating that he personally has not encountered any form of religious discrimination impacting his career. Merchant emphasized that while Rahman's feelings are valid, his own experiences in the industry tell a different story.

Merchant further elaborated that Bollywood is a place where talent should prevail over religious affiliations, citing Rahman's current project focused on a significant mythological film as evidence of this. According to Merchant, Rahman’s continued success and the opportunities he garners suggest that the industry doesn't operate on the basis of communal bias. He advocates for recognizing individual merit over communal identities and believes that the industry can provide equal opportunities for all.

The conversation surrounding discrimination in Bollywood has gained traction as prominent figures like Rahman voice their concerns. However, opinions like Merchant’s illustrate a counter-narrative within the industry, showcasing a diverse range of experiences that reflect the complexities of Bollywood's work environment. This discourse about perceived biases can influence how artists and audiences perceive the industry's inclusivity and fairness in future projects.