Chinmayi Sripaada calls out industry silence as AR Rahman teams up with POSCO-accused Jani Master: “He will be around for a long time”

November 11, 2025 - 7:03 PM IST

Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has come under scrutiny after his collaboration with renowned choreographer Jani Master for the upcoming Telugu film Peddi, starring Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor, triggered widespread backlash online. The controversy arises as Jani Master faces serious allegations under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Chinmayi Sripaada calls out industry silence as AR Rahman teams up with POSCO-accused Jani Master: “He will be around for a long time”

Jani Master, one of the most in-demand choreographers in South Indian cinema, is currently embroiled in legal proceedings linked to allegations of sexual grooming and abuse of a minor. Despite the gravity of the case, his continued professional engagements have sparked a heated debate on accountability within the entertainment industry.

Rahman’s decision to work with him on Peddi has led to public criticism, with many questioning whether artists facing such accusations should be allowed to continue working in high-profile projects while investigations are ongoing. Social media users have expressed disappointment, urging industry leaders to take ethical responsibility.

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
Grateful for the opportunity Mega Power Star… pic.twitter.com/trH47E0ZdW
— Jani Master (@AlwaysJani) November 9, 2025

However, a section of Rahman’s supporters has cautioned against premature judgment, arguing that legal processes should take their course and that Rahman’s creative legacy should not be undermined by professional associations alone.

Adding fuel to the conversation, singer and activist Chinmayi Sripaada took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a strongly worded statement about the case and its larger implications. She wrote, “The case of Jani Master is complex - but the most important aspect of it is sexual grooming - and him not only sexually abusing a minor but also threatening her at her workplace when she refused to comply. His personal ecosystem paints it as a 'consensual relationship' not understanding that a minor girl of 16 CANNOT GIVE CONSENT. When one is the adult, it is the adult's responsibility to not get involved with a minor.”

The case of Jani Master is complex - but the most important aspect of it is sexual grooming - And him not only sexually abusing a minor but also threatening her at her workplace when she refused to comply.
His personal ecosystem paints it as a 'consensual relationship' not…
— Chinmayi Sripaada (@Chinmayi) November 11, 2025