The makers of the film “Pippa” have issued a statement addressing the criticism surrounding AR Rahman’s version of Kazi Nazrul Islam’s patriotic song “Karar Oi Louho Kopat.” The controversy arose when Kazi Nazrul Islam’s family expressed dissatisfaction with the film’s interpretation of the iconic composition.
In a statement shared on X, the production team of “Pippa,” including producers RSVP and Roy Kapur Films, clarified their artistic approach to the song. They expressed deep respect for the original composition and Kazi Nazrul Islam’s significant contributions to the cultural and social landscape of the Indian subcontinent.
The statement emphasised that the rendition of the song was undertaken as a sincere artistic interpretation, with the necessary adaptation rights obtained from the estate of the late Mr. Kazi Nazrul Islam. The producers, director, and music composer followed the terms of the licence agreement for the lyrics, signed with Late Mrs. Kalyani Kazi and witnessed by Mr. Anirban Kazi.
The filmmakers explained, “Our intent was to pay homage to the cultural significance of the song while adhering to the terms set forth in our agreement, which permitted us to use the lyrics with a new composition.”
Acknowledging the subjective nature of art, the makers apologised if their version of “Karar Oi Louho Kopat” unintentionally hurt sentiments. They stated, “We understand the emotional attachment that audiences may have to the original composition, and while all art is inherently subjective, if our interpretation has hurt sentiments or caused unintended distress, we offer our sincere apologies.”
The controversy surrounding AR Rahman’s rendition of the poem has not only drawn criticism from Kazi Nazrul Islam’s family but has also sparked outrage in the artistic communities of West Bengal and Bangladesh. Rahman, as of now, has not commented on the issue. The situation continues to unfold as discussions on artistic interpretation, cultural sensitivity, and creative licences come to the forefront.