Bengaluru: The Kannada film industry has been witnessing a new wave of talent, and one name that stands out is Abhinandan Kashyap. At just 25 years old, this Mysuru-born music composer, singer, and virtual reality (VR) sound designer has been making a significant impact with his fresh and experimental soundscapes in Indian cinema. His innovative compositions and ability to blend traditional and contemporary sounds have earned him recognition in a competitive industry.
Abhinandan made his debut as a film composer in 2021 and quickly gained attention with his work in Avatara Purusha Part 2, produced by Pushkar Films. The film’s music, which included a mix of energetic and soulful compositions, was praised by critics and audiences alike. His ability to create an immersive background score further established him as a promising young talent. He followed up this success with Beguru Colony, a film directed by Flying King Manju and produced by Srima Cinemas, where his music played a crucial role in shaping the film’s emotional depth.
One of the standout songs from Beguru Colony is “Jai Bheem”, a tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The song, penned by Kavirathna Dr. V. Nagendra Prasad and sung by Grammy Award winner Dr. Shankar Mahadevan, has been widely appreciated for its powerful composition and meaningful lyrics. Mahadevan, who has delivered several iconic songs in Indian cinema, recorded “Jai Bheem” in a single take, calling it one of his fastest and most memorable recordings. The song has already started to gain popularity among audiences.
Apart from traditional film compositions, Abhinandan has also made a mark in Virtual Reality (VR) sound design, debuting in this space with Once Upon a Time in Jamaligudda. His expertise in crafting immersive sound experiences has opened new doors for innovative storytelling in Indian cinema. By integrating VR sound techniques, he has enhanced the cinematic experience for audiences, making his work unique in the industry.
Abhinandan’s upcoming projects include Abhimanyu S/o Kashinath (Isiri Cinema Productions), Ravana Rajyadalli Navadampathigalu, and Vidhyapathi (Daali Pictures). Additionally, he is working on an untitled film under PA Productions, which is expected to showcase more of his innovative sound design techniques. With these projects, he is set to further push creative boundaries and establish himself as a leading name in Kannada film music.
Despite his rapid success, Abhinandan remains grounded and focused on evolving as an artist. He credits his inspiration to music legend Ilaiyaraaja, whose work motivated him to pursue a career in film composition. His journey from a young musician trained in Carnatic classical music to a rising star in the film industry is a testament to his dedication and passion.
As he continues to grow in his career, Abhinandan Kashyap is expected to leave a lasting impact on Indian cinema. With his unique ability to create soulful compositions, immersive soundscapes, and cutting-edge VR sound design, he is undoubtedly a name to watch out for in the coming years.
