AR Rahman looked smart and simple clad in a black kurta at the audio release function of 'Somberi' that was held in the city on Sunday.

Many wondered how Ali, who stars as the lead man in the film managed to get Rahman to fly down all the way from Chennai.

But Rahman was more than happy doing the favour for Mano, who has turned a music director with this film.

Rahman thanked all the Telugu music directors he has been associated with since his struggling days. It was Raj Koti, who identified his potential as a keyboard players and took him into their troupe, once Rahman came out of the Ilayaraja tutelage, he informed.

The function was more of a gathering of music directors, as Mani Sarma, Koti and Devisri Prasad were present to congratulate both Mano and lyricist Jonnavittula who is turning a director with 'Somberi'.

Rahman also disclosed that Mano was among the first few to record a song at his recording studio in Chennai, which he had opened only recently.