A.R. Rahman Faces Backlash Over Collaboration with Jani Master — Here’s What Happened

Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman has found himself embroiled in controversy over the song "Chikiri Chikiri" from his new film "Peddi." The song went viral upon release, but Rahman's decision to collaborate with choreographer Jani Master has sparked widespread outrage on social media.

What is the whole matter?

On November 9th, Jani Master shared photos on his Instagram with A.R. Rahman and Peddi director Buchi Babu Sana. He wrote, "We've danced to Rahman sir's songs since childhood. It's an honor to choreograph to his tunes today." But the post spread like wildfire on social media because Jani Master has faced serious allegations of sexual assault.

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Allegations against Jani Master

Jani Master was arrested in Goa in September 2023. A female assistant choreographer alleged that Jani raped her during a trip to Mumbai in 2020 and continued the sexual assault for several months. Later, an investigation revealed that the victim was a minor at the time. A case was registered under the POCSO Act and sections 376(2)(n), 506, and 323 of the Indian Penal Code. Currently, Jani Master is out on bail, while the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has suspended his National Film Award.

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People's anger on social media

After Rahman's pictures with Jaani surfaced, users on Twitter (now X) and Reddit reacted fiercely. Many wrote, "Rahman stopped working with Vairamuthu, so why with Jaani Master?" "The film industry is really good at protecting sex offenders." One user said, "If Rahman left Vairamuthu on principle, then why did he get photographed with Jaani Master?"

The success of the song 'Chikiri Chikiri'

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Despite the controversy, the song "Chikri Chikiri" has already reached a record 46 million views. Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor appear in the song.
The music is composed by A.R. Rahman and sung by Mohit Chauhan and A.R. Ameen. The song's signature dance move, which features Ram Charan bending over while smoking a beedi, was choreographed by Jani Master.

Story of the movie 'Peddi'

Peddi is directed by Buchi Babu Sana, who has previously made superhit films like “Uppena”. Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Divyenndu Sharma, and Jagapathi Babu will be seen in this film. This film is based on the story of a rural cricketer and will be released on March 27, 2026.

FAQs

Q1. Which film's song has A.R. Rahman in controversy?

Regarding the song Chikiri Chikiri from the movie Peddi.

Q2. What are the charges against Jani Master?

He had sexually abused his minor assistant in 2020.

Q3. Was Jani Master arrested?

Yes, he was arrested in Goa in September 2023 and is currently on bail.

Q4. Why did people criticize Rahman?

Because she worked with a person who faces serious charges under the POCSO Act.

Q5. When will the Peddi movie release?

In theaters March 27, 2026.

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