From the engineering classrooms of Kerala to international recording studios, Sruthy Sasidharan built a remarkable career in Indian music. She left a computer science path behind to follow her true calling.
Her journey into playback singing began with classical training and digital demos. A music director discovered her talent online, launching her professional work in 2017.
She now records across six languages from her home in Arizona. Her sound uniquely blends traditional instruments like the sitar and tabla with modern rhythms.
This approach preserves India’s rich cultural heritage while appealing to contemporary listeners. Her performances are known for their technical precision and deep emotional authenticity.
Sruthy Sasidharan’s story is one of artistic courage. It shows how dedication can bridge continents and create a unique voice in a global music scene.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Long before studio microphones captured her voice, a young girl in Kozhikode was discovering music through Kerala’s vibrant cultural landscape. Her early years were shaped by the region’s rich musical heritage.
Childhood, Education, and Family Background
She completed her schooling at NSS High School Manjeri and continued at GBHSS Manjeri. Youth festival events introduced her to competitive music at state and national levels.
Her family included a younger brother, with parents who initially approached her musical passion with caution. They later became her strongest supporters after witnessing her early successes.
Despite pursuing computer science engineering at College of Engineering, Trivandrum, graduating in 2015, music remained her true calling. The technical discipline of engineering complemented her artistic development.
| Year | Milestone | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early 2000s | Initial School Performances | Manjeri | First exposure to audience |
| 2005-2010 | Youth Festival Participation | Kerala State Level | Competitive experience |
| 2011-2015 | Engineering Education | Trivandrum | Academic foundation |
| Early Career | TV & Radio Appearances | Regional Broadcasts | Professional exposure |
Initial Classical Training and Early Influences
Her classical training began under Baburaj, who provided the technical foundation. Later studies with Krishnakumar refined her understanding of ragas and rhythm.
Early television and radio appearances taught her performance discipline. These experiences prepared her for the professional music world that awaited.
The blend of traditional Kerala sounds with classical training created a unique artistic foundation. This early education in music would define her future approach to singing.
Career Transformation: Engineering to Music
After earning her engineering degree, she found herself in a startup job that drained her creative spirit. The corporate world offered security but left little room for her true passion.
Working in Engineering and the Spark for Change
Her engineering work consumed hours that once belonged to music. She felt exhausted and unhappy, planning a master’s degree but sensing deeper dissatisfaction.
No promotion or project could resolve the gnawing feeling that this career path wasn’t right. The technical work provided stability but couldn’t satisfy her artistic needs.
Transitioning to a Full-Time Music Career
A SoundCloud upload changed everything when a music director discovered her recordings. That demo led to her first Kannada movie song, transforming her career from code to composition.
Leaving engineering meant facing family skepticism about whether passion music could sustain a livelihood. She worked relentlessly, recording ad jingles and backing vocals to build credibility.
The turning point came when her parents watched her first song on screen. Their pride validated her decision to pursue music full-time.
Sruthy Sasidharan’s Impact on Indian Music
Her entry into the film music industry was not just a career shift. It became a contribution that resonated across multiple regional cinemas. Her voice found a home in diverse musical landscapes.
Breakthrough in Playback Singing and Popular Songs
The 2017 Malayalam movie ‘Akashamittayi’ introduced her playback voice with “Kiya kiva.” This debut set a tone of technical precision and emotional depth. She quickly followed with notable songs.
“Mayilla Njan” for the film ‘Queen’ showcased her ability to handle complex compositions. The real breakthrough arrived with “Kadhale” from the movie ‘Maradona’. This track topped charts and earned award nominations.
It brought wider recognition and solidified her place in the industry.
Her strategy involved choosing music that challenged her range. This built a discography rich with folk-infused melodies and contemporary Bollywood sounds.
Notable Collaborations and Signature Tracks
Her work extends beyond Malayalam cinema. She sang “Nee En” for the Tamil movie ‘Dha Dha 87’ and several songs for Kannada films.
A significant milestone was the Hindi song “Akhiyaan Milavanga” from the film ‘Commando 3’. This romantic anthem, featuring Arijit Singh, became one of her most recognized tracks.
Collaborations with composers like Arjun Janya demonstrated her ability to complement industry veterans. These partnerships proved her versatility and pan-Indian appeal.
Her signature tracks transcend linguistic boundaries. They establish her reputation as a truly national playback artist.
Cultural Heritage and Global Influence
The singer’s multilingual repertoire serves as a testament to how deeply rooted traditions can adapt and thrive across geographical boundaries. Her work demonstrates that cultural heritage need not be sacrificed for global appeal.
Retaining Indian Folk Roots in a Modern World
Sruthy Sasidharan’s commitment to Indian folk traditions shapes her entire artistic approach. She carefully selects instruments like the sitar and tabla to maintain authentic sounds.
Her vocal technique preserves classical training while adapting to contemporary rhythms. This balance keeps the music’s cultural integrity intact.
Adapting to Western Culture and Artistic Opportunities
Living in Arizona has opened new creative pathways for the artist. Remote recording technology allows continuous collaboration with Indian composers.
She explores jazz and Western genres while maintaining her core Indian musical identity. Her advice to immigrant women reflects this adaptive philosophy.
| Language | Number of Songs | Cultural Region |
|---|---|---|
| Malayalam | Mother Tongue Focus | Kerala Heritage |
| Tamil | Significant Portfolio | South Indian Tradition |
| Kannada | Early Breakthrough | Karnataka Music |
| Hindi | National Recognition | Pan-Indian Appeal |
| Telugu & Marathi | Growing Presence | Regional Diversity |
This linguistic range positions her as a bridge between India’s diverse musical traditions. Each language carries unique emotional textures into her work.
Final Reflections and Future Musical Horizons
In Arizona, the day ends and her creative night begins. This rhythm suits the singer perfectly, allowing her to connect with studios in India. Her passion for music finds its voice in the quiet hours.
Sruthy Sasidharan’s career continues to evolve from her home base. She records remotely for Indian films while nurturing a desire to explore jazz. This genre appeals to her love for improvisation.
Beyond the microphone, she paints and plays the violin. These artistic events fill her days, revealing a mind that thrives on creative expression in many forms.
A violet Kanjivaram saree hangs in her closet. It is a treasured gift, a quiet symbol of the heritage she carries forward. For Sruthy Sasidharan, the future is a canvas of cross-cultural sounds, each day and night a new opportunity to create.
