A Corporate Professional’s Escape into the World of Music

Music has always been a way of life for me, a silent rhythm that’s guided me through some of the most defining moments of my journey. My musical adventure began back in 2009 during my college days at Ramjas College in Delhi, a time when I never imagined the path I was about to embark on. It all started with a simple invitation from a friend to join a band competition at IIT Delhi, where we needed at least four members to participate. I joined, not knowing that this seemingly casual decision would ignite a deep, unshakeable passion for music that would change the course of my life.

What began as a fun, spontaneous activity turned into something much more profound. The spark was lit, and I found myself drawn into the world of melodies, harmonies, and rhythm. I started teaching myself to play the guitar and keyboard, and before I knew it, music was no longer just a hobby—it was my calling. I poured myself into learning and creating, but the reality of balancing this newfound passion with my corporate career in consulting was daunting. I spent my weekdays in the corporate world, while my evenings and weekends were dedicated to singing, composing, and diving deeper into the essence of music.

The tipping point came in 2015, when I had the honor of representing India at my company's global talent show in the Philippines. That experience was transformative. It reaffirmed my belief that music wasn’t just a pastime—it was part of my identity, and it deserved to be nurtured. It was also around this time that I co-founded a music academy with my Guru, Ustad Fareed Ahmed Khan of the Kairana Gharana, and my uncle, Mukesh Gujral. Their mentorship and encouragement were invaluable, helping me understand the deeper, spiritual side of music and shaping my musical journey in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

In 2017, I took another bold step and moved to Toronto, Canada, seeking new opportunities and creative exposure. The move opened up a world of possibilities. I immersed myself in learning music production, a field I had always been curious about, and soon started releasing electronic and dance tracks. Each release was a step closer to discovering my true voice as an artist. Then, in December 2024, I debuted my first original lyrical song, "Tu Jo Nahi," a moment that felt like the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.

But this journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Navigating two parallel lives—one in the corporate world and the other as an artist—was no easy feat. Balancing these worlds demanded sacrifices, discipline, and at times, the strength to forgo personal comforts and opportunities in order to stay true to both paths. There were moments of struggle, times when I questioned whether I could truly pursue both dreams. But with every obstacle came a lesson in resilience. Music, for me, was not just a career but a sanctuary, a space where I could recharge and realign with my true purpose.

The challenges didn’t end with the balancing act. There were financial struggles, moments of doubt, and the difficulty of finding the right collaborators. Family responsibilities and the pressure of being a corporate professional often made the journey feel overwhelming. But giving up was never an option. Music is as essential to me as breathing, and with every hurdle, I found new ways to stay motivated and push forward. Each setback became fuel for my passion, keeping the fire alive.

Now, after nearly 15 years of nurturing my love for music, I’m ready to share it with the world. I’ve composed several original songs, and I’m currently working on bringing them to life through music videos and production. The time feels right, and I’m excited to release these creations and connect with others through the universal language of music.

Reflecting on my journey, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. For the guidance of my Guru and uncle, for the opportunities that came my way, and for the unwavering support of those who believed in me. Music has not only been a creative outlet but a way to connect with the world on a deeper emotional level. It transcends boundaries, and I am committed to sharing this energy with others.

Music isn’t just something I do—it’s who I am. And as I continue this journey, I am filled with immense joy and fulfillment, knowing that I’ve found my true purpose. This is only the beginning.