From “Roja” to “Rang De Basanti”, AR Rahman's music has struck a chord with his listeners, but the Academy award-winning composer feels he has mostly received a mixed response for his tunes. Rahman's film career took off when he composed for Mani Ratnam's “Roja” and ever since he has been the most sought-after musician in the country. Some of his memorable compositions have been in films like “Bombay”, “Dil Se”, “Taal”, “Lagaan”, “Swades”, “Guru”, “Jodhaa Akbar”, “Rockstar”, “Enthiran”, and “Slumdog Millionaire” for which he got an Oscar nomination.

“I have always got a mixed response. When 'Roja' came in, people said I will not sustain more than three months. Then 'Bombay' came, people said what is this? Then 'Rockstar', 'Slumdog Millionaire', 'Mom' happened. I accept it all."

“Internally, I try to be honest with my work and I always do this,” Rahman told PTI when asked about the audience not liking his music in some films. He says music composing as a profession is often not regarded as a great career move as many believe it does not have credibility.

“Everybody says do your job and then do music as a part time (job). We want to make that more and more as a profession to look for. When you look at the world scenario... I think creative professionals have more scope (to excel professionally) than other things (referring to profession).”

Rahman, who is awaiting the release of “One Heart: The AR Rahman Concert Film”, is keen on backing more musical films. “We are concentrating on music-based films and so we can play out more music to people,” he says.

 “One Heart: The AR Rahman Concert Film” shows how concerts are conceptualised and the stories behind the stage. In the film, Rahman will be seen in multiple locations including his concerts. The proceeds from the movie will go to Rahman's One Heart foundation to help old musicians and their families.