In the late '90s, a young Gurukiran arrived in Gandhinagar to assist friends with film music. Now, 25 years later, the music director and composer reflect on the changes in the industry, from film reels to social media platforms. Gurukiran shares, "Initially, I faced challenges being accepted here as I didn't match the typical image." In a recent conversation, he discusses the pressure of producing hit songs, how he established his unique style over the years, and more. "I used to frequent theaters to gauge audience preferences in music," he recalls. Recently, on the re-release day of Upendra, Gurukiran fondly remembered his early days with Uppi, the film's hero and director. Despite gaining success as a music director, he would return to Mangaluru until working on the movie Upendra. The overwhelming reception to the film's music, which fetched a significant amount for audio rights, prompted Gurukiran to eventually settle in Bengaluru. Initially viewing music as a hobby, his commitment grew after the success of Upendra and Chitra, shifting his focus to music composition. Gurukiran notes that entering the industry is simpler today, but maintaining a career is a significant challenge. Reflecting on the industry's evolution, he comments, "While there are more opportunities for newcomers now, achieving and preserving success remain distinct struggles. Music has transitioned from an art form to a more commercial endeavor."In today's competitive music industry, simply creating music is no longer sufficient to gain attention. Promotional efforts are essential to ensure that your music is heard amidst the oversaturation of the market. Nowadays, music directors are often approached with requests to make songs go viral on platforms like reels, giving the impression that hits can be artificially manufactured. Recognizing this pressure, Gurukiran has chosen to slow down and only take on projects that truly inspire him. He finds fulfillment in the enduring popularity of his music from films such as A, Kariya, and Upendra, even after many years. At this stage of his career, Gurukiran prioritizes the satisfaction of creating music that leaves a lasting impact.

Gurukiran reflects on his journey, recalling the initial challenges he faced in being accepted by the industry. Despite his successes as a music director, he encountered skepticism and hesitation from others, who questioned his unconventional appearance. In a field where conformity was the norm, Gurukiran's distinct style set him apart and led to initial doubts about his credibility. However, through his dedication and the success of projects like Apthamitra, he eventually earned respect and recognition. Proud of his track record, Gurukiran notes that a significant portion of his work has been well-received, with a high percentage of films enjoying lengthy theatrical runs. He emphasizes the role of music in attracting audiences to cinemas, highlighting its importance in the overall movie experience.