Fox Star Studio’s Draft Statement to the Press 18th Jan 2012: AR Rahman made news with his latest compositions in the film Ek Deewana Tha, however an excess of anything can spell doom, and the same is the case with the track ‘Hosanna’ which has been making waves in the music world.
The music track is popular and it seems to grow in popularity with each passing day, the Christian Secular Forum (CSF) in Mumbai has objected to the use of the word ‘Hosanna’. They claim the word to be a sacred term used only within prayer songs among Christians and Jews.
We are very proud to once again associate with Mr. A. R. Rahman and Javed Sahab for the music score and lyrics of our film Ekk Deewanna Tha which releases on the 17th of February.
The Tamil and Telegu versions of the film (which too were directed by Gautham Menon) were released in 2010 in which the same song which is currently in the news, Hossana, was used.
We, Mr. Rahman, Gautham Menon, Javed Sahab and all involved in the film are therefore extremely surprised to have heard from Mr. Joseph Dias of the CSF on their views now, on our song.
Mr. Rahman said “As with any film project I work on, I had spent several months researching before composing/writing all the songs for Ekk Dewaana Tha and had consulted friends who are Christian in particular about the use of the word “Hosanna” in this song. The song was a sensation when it was released in the South a couple of years ago and it went on to win all possible music awards and was well received by all communities! Therefore I am deeply concerned about the sentiments of all those who appear to be hurt by this song”
Javed Sahab said ” When we write lyrics with great composers such as Mr. Rahman, who is one of the most respectable human beings I have had the pleasure of working with, the intention is never to insult any religion, why would we?”
Fox Star Spokesperson says “Our organisation, our music partners Sony Music Entertainment, our Producers and all of us are responsible organisations and our view is that more often than not creativity, freedom of speech and expression in art form are stifled by some people who have their own agendas. We have replied to Mr. Jospeh Dias today by letter.”
