AR Rahman's 'Communalism' Remark Sparks Outrage; Dhirendra Shastri Calls for Population Growth

• Oscar-winning musician AR Rahman stated he faces work difficulties in Hindi cinema due to rising communalism, sparking controversy.
• Bageshwar Dham's Pandit Dhirendra Shastri criticized 'secularism' and advocated for Vedic Gurukuls in every district to preserve Indian identity.
• Shastri urged Hindus to increase their population, suggesting at least four children per family to protect 'water, jungle, land, and wife'.
• Hanumangarhi Deveshacharya Maharaj condemned Rahman's statement, calling him a great artist who shouldn't make such claims when not getting work.
• SP leader S.T. Hasan supported Rahman's concern, blaming BJP for the atmosphere, while Congress MLA Amin Patel sought context.

Why It Matters: AR Rahman's communalism claim in Hindi cinema ignited a debate, with Dhirendra Shastri advocating Hindu population growth.