“Music has always been my refuge and joy! It’s a constant source of happiness, even during my toughest times. Back in my school days, I didn’t fully understand Music, but I’d imitate my favorite songs and dabble in writing poems. When I expressed my desire to learn music, my family wasn’t too thrilled. But their rejection didn’t stop me. After my 10th-grade exams, I took matters into my own hands during a summer break. I had no formal music education and couldn’t read sheet music, so I turned to an English dictionary. In those pages, I found words like ‘vocal,’ ‘sound,’ and ‘instrument.’ This newfound knowledge sparked my journey.

As I continued my education and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, I realized that I could balance my studies with my passion for music. I transitioned from being a student to a music teacher. I started at Hindu Public School in Sanat Nagar and later taught at places like Shraddha Centre For Special Education and St. Alphonsa’s High School. My education became the strong foundation that propelled me forward.

In 2005, I made the daring move to Hyderabad, despite facing opposition from my family. Adjusting to the new environment and dealing with financial constraints wasn’t easy. Music remained my refuge during these trying times. Unable to rely on my family for financial support, I turned to my musical talents to make a living. I chose to work as a music teacher to cover my living expenses. This chapter as a teacher was a vital stepping stone on my journey to becoming a Music Director.

I’ve always been an introvert and find inspiration in my emotions and the beauty of nature. When I create music for a project, I take the director’s desired emotion and blend it with my personal connection, crafting a unique musical style.

My hometown, Vizianagaram, with its rich cultural heritage, profoundly influenced my musical style. The echoes of legendary composers like Saluri Rajeswara Rao and vocalists like P. Susheela and Ghantasala are heard in my work. The cultural tapestry of my birthplace left a lasting mark on my music.

Throughout my journey, I’ve achieved remarkable milestones. Composing music for over 200 short films, my 100th musical composition for ‘Okka Kshanam’ with ‘MR. Productions’ was a memorable moment. Being nominated for the SIIMA short film awards in 2020 in the best music director category for ‘Antharardham’ filled me with immense pride. Collaborating with actor and writer LB Sriram on over 10 short films has been a privilege.

Through my compositions, I aim to infuse energy into the minds, hearts, and souls of my audience, transcending boundaries. I’ve never sought to impress anyone, but I feel a deep sense of pride when someone appreciates my music. Staying true to my beliefs, I’ve found that people who share my passion draw closer, becoming my fans.

In 2023, my contributions to Telugu short films through my music compositions earned me a place in the ‘India Book of Records.’ I firmly believe that even small tasks, when carried out with honesty and dedication, yield the best results one truly deserves.

My journey stands as a story of unwavering dedication, the ability to find music in everyday life, and the power of melodies that cross boundaries.”

• PVR RAJA, Music Director