Academy Award-winning musician AR Rahman is every musician’s dream collaborator, and recently Manoj Muntashir, who worked with him on the Ajay Devgn-starrer ‘Maidaan‘, revealed how simple and unassuming Rahman was during their first meeting. Manoj further described the meeting as “quite confusing.”
Manoj shared that Rahman appeared to be the most ordinary person when he entered the room. The lyricist recounted the incident in an interview with O2 India, explaining that his first meeting with AR Rahman was not what he had imagined. Having seen the musician at public gatherings, this was his first face-to-face encounter. Manoj believes that AR Rahman’s name carries a huge persona, as it holds a legendary and cult status. He had envisioned a spiritual energy entering the room, but when Rahman arrived, he was very ordinary—just like any common man.
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He added, “Dare I say this, but this man was so simple—be it his attire, his words, or the way he sat. He is the most ordinary man in the world until he sits with his piano. He is not extraordinary, and that’s what makes him so special.”
Manoj further added that AR Rahman never carried his fame or acted arrogantly despite his immense stature. He seemed oblivious to his own iconic status, which left Manoj wondering.
Manoj also noted Rahman’s simplicity during general conversations but was awestruck by his transformation when discussing music, likening him to a “nuclear reactor” unleashing profound energy. He expressed amazement at Rahman’s divine presence when immersed in music, contrasting it with his otherwise humble demeanor, leaving a lasting impression of awe and admiration.
The Ajay Devgn-starrer ‘Maidaan’ was released in theaters in June last year. Although the movie failed to meet expectations at the box office, songs like “Team India Hai Hum” and “Mirza” became hits.
At the same time, AR Rahman recently ended his 29-year marriage with his wife Saira Banu, leaving everyone heavy-hearted.
