In the late 1990s, a young Gurukiran came to Gandhinagar to assist friends with film music. Over the span of 25 years, as the industry transitioned from film reels to social media reels, the music director reflects on his experiences. Initially facing challenges being accepted in the industry due to not fitting the typical image, he discusses the pressures of creating hit songs and how he found his own unique path. Visiting theaters to understand audience preferences, Gurukiran recalls a nostalgic moment during the re-release of Upendra, where he and the film's hero and director experienced the reactions firsthand. Reflecting on his journey, Gurukiran notes how his career evolved from a casual interest to a serious pursuit after the success of certain films, leading to his permanent relocation to Bengaluru. He comments on the evolving landscape of the industry, acknowledging that while entry has become more accessible for newcomers, maintaining success remains a significant challenge in today's commercial-focused music scene.In today's highly competitive music industry, standing out is a challenge due to oversaturation. Merely creating music is no longer sufficient; promoting it is essential to ensure its reach. Music directors are now approached with requests aiming to make songs viral on platforms like reels, as if hits can be produced on demand. Gurukiran has adopted a more selective approach, focusing on projects that ignite his passion. He takes pride in the timeless appeal of his music from renowned films like A, Kariya, and Upendra. At this stage of his career, Gurukiran values the gratification of creating enduring pieces over fleeting trends.
Gurukiran reflects on his journey in the industry, recalling initial struggles due to not conforming to traditional expectations. Despite establishing himself as a successful music director, acceptance was gradual. His appearance, diverging from the norm of well-groomed hair and traditional attire, led to initial skepticism about his commitment. However, breakthrough successes like Apthamitra shifted perceptions, leading to a notable success rate of 70% in his work, with 44% of films enjoying prolonged runs in theaters. Gurukiran emphasizes the pivotal role of music in attracting audiences to cinemas.