Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman is facing criticism for collaborating with choreographer Jani Master on the song "Chikiri Chikiri" for the upcoming Ram Charan film, Peddi. Jani Master, whose real name is Shaik Jani Basha, was accused last year of sexual harassment and assault by a former assistant choreographer, who was a minor at the time of the alleged offenses. The case was filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and Jani Master was arrested and held in judicial custody before being released on bail.
The controversy arose after Jani Master shared photos on Instagram on November 9, 2025, featuring himself with A.R. Rahman and Peddi director Buchi Babu Sana, thanking them for the opportunity to choreograph "Chikiri Chikiri". The post quickly went viral, triggering outrage among social media users who questioned Rahman's decision to work with someone facing such serious allegations.
Many fans expressed their disappointment, labeling Rahman's choice as "insensitive" and "deeply disappointing". Some pointed out that Rahman had previously avoided working with individuals accused of similar misconduct, such as Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu, who faced nearly 20 complaints during the #MeToo movement. This perceived inconsistency has led to accusations of hypocrisy.
Social media has been abuzz with condemnation, with many users questioning why Rahman, known for his socially conscious image and outspoken stance on women's rights, would collaborate with Jani Master. Some comments on Reddit and other platforms expressed disbelief that Rahman was unaware of the allegations against the choreographer.
In October 2024, amidst protests, the National Film Awards committee suspended Jani Master's Best Choreography award due to the allegations. Despite the ongoing legal issues and public outcry, Jani Master has continued to work on major Telugu film projects.
Neither A.R. Rahman nor the Peddi production team have released any public statements addressing the controversy. This silence has further fueled the debate about ethics and accountability within the film industry, specifically regarding whether artists should collaborate with individuals facing serious legal accusations. The situation has sparked discussions about the entertainment industry's responsibility to uphold ethical standards and protect vulnerable individuals. Some industry insiders believe this situation is triggering a larger conversation about accountability in the film industry.
