In the late 1990s, a young Gurukiran came to Gandhinagar to assist friends in film music. Now, twenty-five years later, the music director and composer reflects on the industry's evolution, from film reels to social media, noting, "Initially, I faced challenges fitting into the industry's image." He shares insights on navigating the pressure of creating hit songs, establishing his unique style, and more. Gurukiran mentions visiting theaters to gauge audience reactions to music, highlighting a nostalgic moment during the re-release of Upendra. While reflecting on his journey from Mangaluru, he reveals that his passion for music deepened after working on films like Upendra and Chitra. Gurukiran describes his transition to a full-time music career and emphasizes the growing opportunities for newcomers in the industry today, although he acknowledges the ongoing challenge of maintaining success amidst a shift towards commercialization of music.These days, in a crowded marketplace where everyone is striving to make a mark, simply creating music is no longer sufficient; one also needs to invest in its promotion to ensure visibility. Music directors are now often approached with requests like, “make this viral on social media,” implying a belief that popular songs can be manufactured instantly. Recognizing this trend, I have chosen to slow down and only take on projects that truly inspire me. I find fulfillment in the knowledge that my music from iconic films like A, Kariya, and Upendra still resonates with audiences even after many years. At this stage of my life, what matters most to me is the joy of creating enduring art," explains Gurukiran.

Initially, Gurukiran faced challenges in gaining acceptance in the industry, as he did not conform to the traditional image of a music director. Despite proving his talent, it took time for the industry to fully embrace him. The conventional expectation for music directors was to have a certain appearance, with well-groomed hair, white attire, and vibhuti on their foreheads. However, Gurukiran's unconventional appearance led some to doubt his commitment initially. Over time, with successful projects like Apthamitra, he earned recognition and respect. Gurukiran proudly notes that a significant portion of his work has achieved success, with a notable percentage of his films running in theaters for over 100 days. He emphasizes the significant role that music plays in attracting audiences to cinemas.