By the NewsPatron Opinion Desk
It is often said that success has many fathers, but failure is an orphan. In 2026, however, failure—or even a simple career lull—seems to have found a new parent: “Communal Bias.”
A viral storm has erupted on social media following recent comments by music maestro A.R. Rahman and Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja. Both icons, who have reached the pinnacle of their fields, recently suggested that their identities (religion or race) played a role in their professional struggles.
But the internet isn’t buying it. Two viral videos—one by a social media commentator and another by veteran singer Anup Jalota—are asking a tough question: When will we shed this victim mentality?
Direct from the Scene
The Trigger: “Chinese Whispers” of Bias
In a recent interview, A.R. Rahman hinted that a “gang” in Bollywood was working against him, suggesting a “communal” angle to why he wasn’t getting work in Hindi films for the last eight years.
“People who are not creative have the power now… And this might have been a communal thing also, but not in my face.” — A.R. Rahman
The Viral Rebuttal: Meritocracy is Color-Blind
The commentator in the video above argues a point that resonates with many: Meritocracy is color-blind. If you score runs (like Khawaja) or make hits (like Rahman), you play. Blaming your religion for a dry spell is seen by many as an insult to the nation that celebrated you.
Anup Jalota Weighs In: “It’s About the Song, Not the Name”
Adding weight to this debate is veteran Bhajan maestro Anup Jalota. In a candid video, he dismisses the idea that India discriminates against artists based on faith.
Jalota’s point is the harsh reality of showbiz: You are only as good as your last hit. Blaming “communalism” for a lack of hits is a convenient shield against professional accountability.
The Verdict
The backlash against Rahman and Khawaja isn’t about hate; it’s about disappointment. Fans feel betrayed when their idols, who were celebrated as national icons, suddenly turn around and accuse the same nation of bias the moment the spotlight fades.
What do you think? Are Rahman and Khawaja exposing real systemic bias, or are they just playing the victim card? Let us know in the comments! 👇
