Ranjit Barot, a renowned percussionist, drummer, and music composer, sees the information explosion and social media as a double-edged sword. He believes that while they are empowering, they can also be alienating. In his view, many musicians who thrive on social media lack the necessary skills to excel in the real world. On the other hand, talented artists sometimes struggle with anonymity because they are not fully engaged on social media platforms. Barot emphasizes the importance of embracing trends while also being discerning about their positive impacts and drawbacks. In his experience, collaborating with talented individuals is essential for personal growth and improvement. He values surrounding himself with people who are more skilled than him as a way to elevate his own abilities. Barot stresses the importance of creating music that can stand the test of time, comparing it to the works of iconic artists like Sting, Prince, and Michael Jackson. Despite the rewards of pursuing music as a career, Barot acknowledges the challenges, noting that the music industry is highly consumed but often undervalued in terms of financial compensation.Subscription services charge a monthly fee, with only a small portion going to the artists. In the present day, we have AI, which some may view as a convenient tool for the less motivated. However, for those with genuine skills, AI cannot replace them. While AI might phase out those lacking talent, it cannot replace individuals with true talent and determination. The music industry requires an influx of talented artists to revamp its current state. There is hope for the industry, despite the prevalent issue in India where the focus on commercializing music has diminished the value of creating intellectually stimulating pieces. The industry is predominantly run by individuals taking shortcuts, lacking a standard of excellence. Despite this, there are pockets of exceptional music, such as those by AP Dhillon and Diljit Dosanjh. The need is for more artists producing high-quality music to transform the landscape. My mother, Sitara Devi, a renowned classical kathak dancer, has been my greatest inspiration. Her relentless drive and dedication greatly impacted me, motivating me to work hard and strive for innovation, expression, and meaningful connections with others. Further, the collaboration titled "Beat Route" between director Roysten Abel and percussionist Ranjit Barot, featuring ten master folk percussionists from Rajasthan and Kerala, will take place at Chowdiah Memorial Hall on October 5, from 5 pm to 8 pm.