A Doctor’s Path from Medicine to Music Triumphs

Growing up amidst the scenic beauty of Uttarakhand, I was captivated by the rhythms of music from a young age. My mother, an ardent music lover herself, would often hum and sing while doing household chores. Those tender, everyday moments became the backdrop of my childhood, sparking a fire within me that would soon shape my life. It wasn’t long before I found myself singing alongside her, realizing that music was more than just sound; it was a refuge, a friend, and a lifelong passion.

I still remember saving every penny to buy CDs of various artists, immersing myself in their world. It gave me my first taste of understanding how deeply connected I felt to music. School singing competitions became my initial stage, where the support from teachers and classmates ignited my confidence. Back then, music was just a cherished hobby, never a career option. But as life unfolded, that would change.

 After high school, I moved to Rishikesh with my father, and my passion for music began to grow stronger. I secretly bought my first guitar, with help from my mother, hiding it from my father for a whole year, fearing his reaction. Coming from a traditional Garhwali family, no one had ever pursued music so fervently, but I was determined to break new ground.

Along with my love for music, I studied medicine and graduated with a BAMS degree. During my early college days, I was deeply influenced by the energy of rock and pop culture. I managed to balance my demanding medical studies with my musical pursuits, and soon, my band, *Nishchay*, was born. We began performing live shows, sharing our original music, and connecting with audiences in ways I’d never dreamed. Performing on prestigious stages and with renowned artists was thrilling; it felt like a dream come true.

Being an independent artist had its own set of challenges. I never wanted to rely on my parents financially for my musical passion, so I took on various jobs, giving science tuitions in the mornings and guitar lessons after college. I scrimped and saved, sometimes going two years without buying new clothes, just to fund my music. It was a test of resilience, but one I was determined to pass.

In 2018, however, my band disbanded, leaving me devastated. Years of hard work and creativity seemed to vanish overnight, but I refused to let it end there. I decided to go solo, pouring my energy into releasing solo songs. I continued my career as a doctor at a multinational health company, determined to keep my music alive.

 Then, 2021 brought an unexpected blow. I was severely affected by COVID-19, which led to serious health complications and a year-long recovery. I fell into a deep phase of self-doubt and depression, feeling like I had lost my connection to music and my audience. But my background in medicine and the unwavering support of my family helped me focus on my mental health. Slowly, I started writing and composing again, regaining my strength and confidence.

By the end of 2022, I had rebuilt myself emotionally and creatively, recording new songs and producing music videos on my own. My music became more than just melodies—it was a testament to my resilience, my emotions, and my journey. Original songs like "Maa Ganga" (adopted by Namami Gange Uttarakhand for the Clean Ganga Mission), "Sparsh Tera," "Kahin Bhool Na Jana," "Sleepless," "Mai Chala," and "Tu Meri Kaun Hai" each carry pieces of my story, of facing challenges and choosing music time and time again.

 Coming from a traditional Pahadi family, pursuing music was far from easy. Financial constraints were constant, and my health struggles took a toll. Yet, my passion and determination became the fuel I needed to stand up again each time I fell. Walking this path alone made me appreciate the solitude, and by the end of 2022, I had completed a new album with original songs. Now, in 2024, I’ve already released three original songs from my album "Mai Chala," with self-produced audio and music videos. And this is just the beginning.

 I plan to continue releasing more music and performing live concerts, sharing my journey with those who find solace in my songs. Along the way, I’ve received national recognition, with interviews on major media platforms like Aaj Tak and Amar Ujala, and creating the official anthem “Maa Ganga” for the Namami Gange Mission in Uttarakhand.

 My journey as a doctor and musician has taught me invaluable lessons in resilience and self-discovery. As I look forward, I know that my music is more than just sound—it’s my story, my spirit, and my legacy.