The song Mangal Rang from Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming mythological film Ramayana: Part 1 has sparked a debate on social media over its musical style. Composed by AR Rahman and performed by Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal, the track celebrates the divine love and sacred union of Lord Rama and Maa Sita. However, several listeners have criticised its qawwali-like sound and perceived Sufi influences, arguing that the composition does not match their expectations for a song based on the Ramayana.
Why Is ‘Mangal Rang’ Facing Criticism?
Following its release, Mangal Rang quickly became a topic of discussion on X. Some users questioned the choice of musical arrangement, saying the track sounded more like a qawwali than a traditional devotional song.
Several listeners also compared the composition to AR Rahman’s popular Sufi-inspired song Kun Faya Kun from the 2011 film Rockstar.
One social media user commented, “Qawwali in Ramayana. AR Rahman never fails to disappoint.”
Others expressed a preference for a more traditional Indian musical arrangement. They suggested incorporating instruments such as the veena, sitar, mridangam and tabla, alongside greater use of Sanskrit lyrics, to create a sound that better reflects the epic’s mythological setting.
The song’s visuals also feature a haldi ceremony. However, reports of a specific controversy involving viewers mistaking the ceremony for chumawan have not been widespread.
AR Rahman’s Response to the Debate
AR Rahman has not directly responded to the specific criticism surrounding Mangal Rang. However, reports suggest that he has been amused by instances in which people criticise songs from Ramayana and later apologise. The composer is also said to prefer not to dwell on direct audience reactions.
Rahman recently shared an anecdote from 2014 about a fan who had reportedly imagined his involvement in composing music for Ramayana.
The ongoing discussion has brought attention to the expectations surrounding the film’s music, particularly given the cultural and religious significance of the epic.
Fans Divided Over ‘Mangal Rang’
While some listeners have criticised the song’s musical direction, others have welcomed it, praising its vocals and devotional atmosphere. Supporters have described the track as having “divine vibes” and applauded the performances of Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal.
The visuals featuring lead actors Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Maa Sita have also received positive reactions from some viewers, who praised the chemistry between the two actors.
Several fans have expressed excitement about Ramayana: Part 1, with some describing the film as a potential “GENERATIONAL FILM” based on its promotional material and music.
The mixed response to Mangal Rang reflects the different expectations audiences bring to cinematic adaptations of revered epics. While some prefer music rooted in traditional devotional styles, others have welcomed the composition’s approach, keeping the song at the centre of an ongoing social media discussion.