http://www.dnaindia.com/speakup/report_we-wish-you-many-more-jai-ho-ar-rahman_1330980
Mumbai: Appeal transcends national boundaries He is a brilliant music composer. Every time he comes up with different and original tunes which is not easy for any music director or composer. Above all, he has earned unique recognition not only in India but all over the world. This is because he has created a unique style in his composition and singing, which is not so easy. He has a great fan following everywhere. Mostly I like classical songs, but I cannot miss listening to his songs from Dil Se… and Saathiya. He has no parallel even in this day and age. But he is getting younger due to the novelty of his musical compositions and direction. —Manjusha Kulkarni Patil, classical singer Isn’t afraid of experimenting with melody At any given point of time, there will be people who will be successful in their vocation. But many of them will be forgotten, since a newer and talented lot will come in. However, there are a few people who will be remembered even after they are no more, the reason being that they have created milestones in their career. After RD Burman, I think AR Rahman is a musician who changed the structure, sensibility of melody. He is able to do it time and again, because he is not bound by tradition. He follows his instincts and even allows lyricists and singers to follow their impulse. His is different since he isn’t afraid of experimenting.—Javed Akhtar, lyricist Humble demeanour endears him AR Rahman is the only singer-musician who doesn’t require any introduction. Sometimes I don’t know the name of the album or composer, but his voice is distinct. His singing style shows he sings from his heart. All his songs are unforgettable whether it is Roja’s numbers or Dil Se… or Jai Ho… or any other composition. Despite being right up there, he is down-to-earth. I have seen him perform too. I always feel happy when he receives any award and I pray from my heart for his long life and success.—Bhakti Udeshi He’s also made Tamil music popular With his universally appealing tunes, AR Rahman has demolished all conventional rules in Indian film music. If anyone can make a perfect potpourri of the latest dance rhythms, pop, Latin melodies, Western and Indian classical and pepper it all with local folk tunes, it is Rahman. His music transcends all barriers — geographical, religious or linguistic. He has made people accept Tamil music with equal acceptance and made them proudly acknowledge that they love Indian film music.—Parul Singh Originality is his hallmark AR Rahman is an asset to our nation. The music he composes gives a different kind of serenity while listening to it. The music is mesmerising and lyrics are always meaningful. All his compositions are original; he has never plagiarised. Moreover he sings well and it’s very touching to listen to any song which has been sung by him. Moreover I respect him because recently I came to know he respects all religions. It is very rare to come across people like him in the world of cinema.—Pratyasha Malakar People anxiously wait for next album Every music composer has a specific target audience, but it’s not with AR Rahman. Everyone, young or old, loves to listen to his music. He has actually bridged the gap between old and contemporary songs. I like all songs but Roja is my favourite. Rahman is quite different from others since he doesn’t believe in copying. Apart from his music, he is a melodious singer. Vande Mataram sung by him is amazing. People eagerly await the launch of each of Rahman’s albums. This suggests how popular he is. —Manish Chimnani