Music director Ajay Arasada reflected on his early experiences with music, stating, "My aunt and sisters frequently played the veena at home, and I closely observed them from my childhood. This observation gradually transformed into genuine interest, leading me to learn music through attentive observation." Ajay has composed music for the web series Vikkatakavi, which premiered on ZEE5 on November 28, captivating viewers. During a special discussion, he shared his insights.

He noted, "Directors have served as my primary mentors in my musical journey. Each project offers a new perspective from the director, and collaborating with them allows me to explore and discover new facets of music." Regarding the distinctive nature of the music for Vikkatakavi, he elaborated, "For this project, we aimed to create music that reflects the essence of a period setting. We developed tracks designed to transport the audience to a bygone era with their captivating charm."

Background

I was raised in Visakhapatnam (Vizag) and completed my engineering studies at GITAM University. From 2011 to 2018, I worked as a software engineer at TCS. Eventually, I chose to leave my job to pursue a career in the film industry, receiving tremendous support from my family throughout this transition.

Why the Interest in Music?

My aunts and sisters played the veena at home, and I observed them intently from a young age. This keen observation gradually fostered my interest in music. I initially sought to learn the guitar, studying the basics for about two and a half months under Sharath Master before teaching myself through independent practice. Upon entering GITAM University for engineering, I found more free time, occasionally skipping college to immerse myself in music. Engaging with music bands during this period significantly enhanced my skills and deepened my passion for music.

How Did You Enter the Film Industry?

Between 2011 and 2018, I was employed as a software engineer while simultaneously engaging in the production of short films. This dual experience provided me with invaluable practice and allowed me to refine my skills. During this time, I was introduced to Pradeep, the director of Jagannatakam, by Pradeep Advaith. After he listened to a 30-second music piece I had previously composed, he offered me the opportunity to work on Jagannatakam, which marked my initial foray into the film industry. Following this, I began to work independently. Around that period, my childhood friend, music director Sricharan Pakala, invited me to assist with keyboard programming for the film Goodachari. Subsequently, I contributed to projects such as Ksheera Sagara Mathanam, Nede Vidudala, Missing, and Sriranganeethulu. In addition to films, I composed music for web series, including Save the Tigers (Seasons 1 and 2). Most recently, I was involved in the periodical web series Vikatakavi.

How Did You Get the Opportunity to Work on Aay?

A producer named Bunny Vas came across a background music piece I had created for the film Missing and found it appealing. We were introduced at an event associated with that movie. During our discussion, Bunny Vas expressed a desire to collaborate with me, which led to my opportunity to work on Aay. Initially, he requested that I compose music for two songs: Ammalalo Ram Bhajan and an item song. I completed both compositions, which received positive feedback. Pleased with my work, he then entrusted me with composing the remaining songs and the background score for the film. Crafting the background score for a comedy like Aay was a significant challenge, but the film's success made all the effort worthwhile.

Working Experience on the Periodical Series Vikatakavi

Director Pradeep Maddali possessed a distinct vision for the Vikatakavi series, which facilitated a smoother workflow for me. I regard directors as my mentors, and I adhere to their guidance in my work. My role was to provide the necessary output for the series as per his requirements. While engaged with Aay, I concurrently composed music for three episodes of Vikatakavi. Following the release of Aay, I finalized the music for the remaining episodes. The experience of working on Vikatakavi was notably different, as it is a period series that demanded a specialized musical approach. As a technician, my foremost objective is to meet the expectations of directors, irrespective of the genre, whether it be a film or a series. I remain adaptable and prepared to create music for any type of project.

In terms of inspiration, I hold a deep respect for Devi Sri Prasad, who serves as a significant source of motivation for me, as expressed by Ajay Arasada.

Regarding upcoming projects, I am currently engaged in the production of Three Roses Season 2, alongside two additional web series for Aha. Furthermore, I am in discussions for several film projects, and I will provide more information about them in the near future.

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