Rahman is caught in a controversy after he wished 'all the best' to Malayalam music composer Ouseppachan, to win an Oscar nomination for his work in "Dam 999", a controversial film which is allegedly about the Mullaiperiyar dam, an issue that has created a rift between Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

The Oscar winning composer issued a statement clearing the air. 'My statement was taken out of context and I was being misquoted. It’s very unfortunate. I cannot forget the contributions of Tamilians in my growth,' he said.

Rahman said he respected the stand of former President APJ Abdul Kalam on this issue, who has favoured inter-linking of rivers to solve water problems. He had also said that water cannot be a source of conflict and that the country cannot afford a war on water.

"The Mozart of Madras" said that he was in the US for the last three weeks and was not aware of the ongoing row between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. 'I was not aware of the fact that there was a sensitive issue going on between the two states over the Mullaiperiyar dam,' he said.