Indian Idol
A.R. RahmanBollywood NewsIsmail Darbar

Ismail Darbar Calls A.R. Rahman’s Oscar ‘Bought’; Says No Reconciliation with Bhansali Ever

Anamika Rajput | 2 min read | 1 month ago | Oct 12, 2025 10:31 am IST
Ismail Darbar Calls A.R. Rahman's Oscar 'Bought'; Says No Reconciliation with Bhansali Ever

Remember the music from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam or Devdas? Of course you do. Ismail Darbar created an entire musical era. But lately, he’s been making headlines for his words, not just his music. And honestly, it’s a lot.

During a recent appearance on Vickey Lalwani’s podcast, Darbar didn’t hold back. At all. He went straight for one of the most talked-about moments in Indian music history: A.R. Rahman’s Oscar win for Slumdog Millionaire.

He reaffirmed his controversial claim that the Oscar was “bought.” Yeah, you read that right. He even said the Academy contacted him about his remarks, threatening to sue him for slander. While he later apologized to Rahman for criticizing the honor, it’s clear he hasn’t forgotten the controversy.

The Hit List Doesn’t Stop

But wait, there’s more. Darbar also recounted calling music composer Pritam a “chor” (thief) over musical inspiration. The funny part? He said he later congratulated Pritam for the song “Kalank,” only to find out that it too was reportedly inspired. You can’t make this stuff up.

And if you were hoping for a reunion between Darbar and filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, you should probably stop holding your breath. He made it crystal clear that a reconciliation is out of the question. Even for a massive paycheck. The iconic duo behind some of Bollywood’s most legendary soundtracks is officially done.

It Gets Personal, Too

The conversation wasn’t just about his professional feuds. Darbar also faced criticism for comments about his daughter-in-law, Gauahar Khan. He suggested his son, Zaid, has the right to ask her to stop working now that she’s a mother, which many called out as misogynistic.

He also opened up about his personal life, clarifying details about his second marriage to Ayesha. He stated that her conversion to Islam was her own choice and denied being unfaithful, noting he was already separated from his first wife when they met.

Look, the man gave us timeless music. But he’s also stirring up some serious debate. So, what do you think? Is he just being brutally honest, or have his comments crossed a line? Let us know.