AR Rahman faces backlash for working with POCSO-accused Jani Master
What's the story
Composer AR Rahman is facing criticism for his recent collaboration with choreographer Jani Master, who has been accused of sexually harassing a colleague when she was a minor. The allegations were made by an assistant choreographer last year, leading to Master's arrest in Goa on POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) charges. Despite being released on bail, the controversy has resurfaced after Master shared photos with Rahman and director Buchi Babu Sana from their recent project Peddi.
Twitter Post
See Master's post here
We grew up watching and dancing to Legendary @arrahman Sir's songs and I can't believe I choreographed this chartbuster #ChikiriChikiri in his composition. Thank you for your kind words of support Sir 😍https://t.co/zpSXGIwoUx
— Jani Master (@AlwaysJani) November 9, 2025
Grateful for the opportunity Mega PowerStar… pic.twitter.com/trH47E0ZdW
Social media backlash
'Rahman stopped working with Vairamuthu...'
Netizens have expressed their disapproval of Rahman's decision to work with Master. One user said, "AR Rahman chose to stay away from Vairamuthu, with whom he had tons of hits. What's stopping him from doing the same now? Extremely disappointed by you @arrahman." Another user said, "So due to the lack of good men, we are now recycling pedophiles, rapists and molesters?"
Allegations against Master
Master's National Award for Best Choreography was suspended
The assistant choreographer also accused him of threatening her with physical violence if she reported the incident. She claimed he mentally harassed her during film shoots and rehearsals. Following these allegations and his arrest, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting revoked the National Award for Best Choreography for the song Megham Karukkadha from Dhanush's Thiruchitrambalam.