From ‘Sanghi’ remark to AI song, everything helps ‘Lal Salaam’ gain momentum

Let’s take a quick look at the buzz and the issues surrounding the Tamil film:

The AI song by Rahman

AR Rahman composed the music for ‘Lal Salaam’. (X)

In a groundbreaking moment for Indian cinema, Oscar-winner AR Rahman, who composed the music for Lal Salaam, recreated the voices of the playback singers late Bamba Bakya and late Shahul Hameed for a song in the movie.

Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed worked with Rahman on many hit songs.

Shahul Hameed died in a car accident in 1997, while Bamba Bakya died of cardiac arrest in 2022.

However, netizens were divided over the recreation of songs using AI.

While some raised concerns over the dependence on AI for recreating the voices of Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed, a few others wondered how AI was replacing the opportunities for the present generation. 

A few social media users reacted: “Don’t even dare touch the voice of late singer SP Balasubramaniam.” 

However, some netizens welcomed the innovative move of AR Rahman. They said it was good to hear the voices of the late singers.

Meanwhile, Rahman wrote on X: “We took permission from their families and sent deserving remuneration for using their voice algorithms ..technology is not a threat and a nuisance if we use it right.” 

We took permission from their families and sent deserving remuneration for using their voice algorithms ..technology is not a threat and a nuisance if we use it right…#respect #nostalgia 🙏 https://t.co/X2TpRoGT3l

— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) January 29, 2024

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Rajinikanth Vs Vijay’s fans

Rajinikanth plays Moideen Bhai in ‘Lal Salaam’. (X)

The audio launch Lal Salaam saw Rajinikanth gracing the event.

At the programme, the Superstar clarified that a statement he made during a promotional event of Jailer (2023) was not meant for Thalapathy Vijay as it had upset the fans of Vijay. 

Rajinikanth shared a metaphorical story about “a crow and an eagle”, which led to heated debates.

However, Thalaivar clarified that the story he narrated was not intended for Vijay. He also asked Vijay’s fans to avoid unnecessary rivalry. 

Meanwhile, Rajinikanth recollected Vijay’s early days in the industry. He spoke about Vijay’s journey from a 13-year-old aspiring artiste during Dharmathin Thalaivan (1988) to his current stature.

The veteran also recalled the incident when director SA Chandrasekhar introduced the young Vijay, who revealed his interest in acting. Rajinikanth then advised Vijay to prioritise his education before pursuing a career in cinema. 

Thalaivar also praised Vijay’s discipline, hard work, and talent, which helped him rise to fame in the industry.

Also Read: Rajinikanth clarifies his daughter Aishwarya’s ‘Sanghi’ statement

Aishwarya’s ‘Sanghi’ remark

‘Lal Salaam’ is directed by Aishwarya Rajinikanth. (X)

In another instance during the audio launch, director Aishwarya Rajinikanth noted that her father Rajinikanth was not a “Sanghi”, a term used to identify right-wing supporters.

She said if her father was a Sanghi, he would not have played a Muslim in Lal Salaam.

However, her statement did not go down well with the right-wing activists. 

Following this, Rajinikanth gave a clarification on Aishwarya’s remark. He recently told the media that his daughter did not mean to say that “Sanghi” was a bad term.

Well, whatever may be the issue, everything is certainly helping Lal Salaam gain momentum and make headlines.

The sports drama features Vishnu Vishal and Vikranth in the lead roles. Produced by Lyca Productions, the film is all set for release on 9 February.

Tamil watchlist: ‘Lal Salaam’, ‘Siren’, and ‘Lover’ to release in February