Mumbai, Oct. 26: Music composer AR Rahman has faced criticism on social media following the release of Mangal Rang, a new song from the upcoming film Ramayana.
Released on Sunday, October 25, the song celebrates the relationship and sacred union of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. Rahman composed the track, while Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal provided the vocals. Kumar Vishwas wrote the lyrics.
However, some listeners questioned the song’s musical style, describing it as similar to qawwali and Sufi music. They argued that the composition did not suit a film based on the Indian epic.
One user on X wrote, “Putting Sufi qawwali beats into Valmiki’s Ramayana is peak Bollywood delusion. Zero cultural grounding, zero research, just recycled templates slapped onto a massive budget.”
Putting Sufi qawwali beats into Valmiki’s Ramayana is peak Bollywood delusion. 💀
Zero cultural grounding, zero research, just recycled templates slapped onto a massive budget. Stop treating sacred Itihasa like a regular Friday rom-com! https://t.co/PRfi75xgyJ— Gaurav (@k_gauravs) October 25, 2026
AR Rahman | Mangal Rang Sparks Debate Over Musical Style
Several users also compared the song with Rahman’s earlier compositions, including *Kun Faya Kun* from *Rockstar*. Others alleged similarities with his Tamil song *Enna Solla Pogirai* from *Kandukondain Kandukondain*. These comparisons remain social media opinions rather than established findings.
Some critics said the film should feature more traditional Indian instruments and Sanskrit-based lyrics. Others questioned the decision to appoint Rahman as the music composer for the epic.
The reactions have been mixed, with criticism focusing mainly on the perceived qawwali influences and the song’s suitability for the film’s setting. The online debate has also expanded into questions about musical choices in films based on religious and mythological stories.
Ramayana Release Date and Cast
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita. The ensemble cast also includes Yash, Sunny Deol, Ravi Dubey, Rakul Preet Singh, Arun Govil and Lara Dutta.
The film is backed by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations. It is scheduled for a theatrical release on November 5, 2026, including screenings in 3D and IMAX 3D.
The makers have not announced any change to the song following the online criticism. For now, Mangal Rang continues to draw discussion over its musical style and interpretation of the Rama-Sita story.
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