Outcry Over A R Rahman's Rendition Of Kazi Nazrul Islam's Song In 'Pippa', As Family Decries Distortion

Acclaimed musician A R Rahman's rendition of Kazi Nazrul Islam's iconic patriotic song in the recently released Bollywood film 'Pippa' has stirred controversy.

The family and singers of the legendary Bengali poet are expressing outrage over what they perceive as a 'distortion' in rhythm and tunes, reported Livemint.

Despite an apology from the film's makers, reports suggest that Nazrul Islam's grandson and granddaughter have refused to accept it.

Nazrul's grandson, Kazi Anirban, stated that while his mother had granted permission to use the song in the movie, she did not approve of changes to the tunes.

Nazrul's granddaughter, Anindita Kazi, emphasised their inability to accept the distortion and demanded the immediate removal of the song from the film and the public domain.

Known as the 'rebel poet,' Kazi Nazrul Islam's songs, called 'Nazrul geeti,' hold significant cultural importance in Bengal.

The film's producers, Ronnie Screwvala and Siddharth Roy Kapur, issued an apology, asserting their sincere artistic interpretation and respect for Nazrul Islam's legacy.

Despite the apology, Nazrul's family remains firm in rejecting it, stating that a post on social media is insufficient for such disrespect.

The family demands the removal of the song from the film and the exclusion of their names from the credits.

'Pippa,' based on 'The Burning Chaffees' by Brigadier Balram Singh Mehta, is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

The title pays tribute to the amphibious war tank PT-76, known as 'Pippa,' symbolising a wartime saga of patriotism and Captain Balram Mehta's coming of age in the 45 Cavalry Tank Squadron during the liberation war of Bangladesh.