- A near-miss on a singing reality show became a lesson in perseverance as the celebrated singer-composer shared his journey with students
- “I convert negativity into positivity. I channelise all the energy into positivity,” Ravjiani says, reflecting on turning disappointment into motivation
- His battle with left vocal cord paresis offered a deeply personal account of hope, patience and the courage to keep going
- From musical mentors and a humble first studio to the story behind ‘Chammak Challo’, the session explored the experiences behind the artist
- The ‘Decoded with Chandni Kapadia’ interaction culminated in the launch of GLS University’s Youth Festival 2026 and a student-led musical tribute
NE EDUTAINMENT BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, SEPT 18
When life changes the tune, resilience finds its rhythm.
A five-mark difference once stood between Shekhar Ravjiani and a singing reality show’s next round. Years later, he returned to the same platform as a judge. Between those two moments lay a journey of perseverance, personal challenges and an unwavering commitment to music — a journey that offered GLS University students a compelling lesson in turning setbacks into stepping stones.
The renowned singer, composer and music director brought that deeply personal story to “Decoded with Chandni Kapadia” at GLS University, Ahmedabad, where he opened up about the struggles, emotions, relationships and creative experiences that shaped his musical career.
Hosted by Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director of GLS University, the conversation unfolded as a candid recollection of the milestones and seemingly ordinary moments that helped shape an extraordinary artistic journey. From early disappointments and health challenges to friendships, family, spirituality and the enduring passion for music, Ravjiani offered students a glimpse beyond the spotlight.
Five marks, one enduring lesson
The evening began with a recollection of his early appearance as a contestant on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, where he missed qualifying by just five marks.
Years later, returning to the same platform as a judge gave that early disappointment a strikingly different perspective. Ravjiani spoke about the importance of redirecting negative experiences into constructive energy.
“I convert negativity into positivity. I channelise all the energy into positivity,” he said.
The message resonated with the larger theme of the interaction: rejection need not define the destination. How one responds to disappointment can become an important part of the journey ahead.
When the voice faltered, hope held its note
One of the most moving portions of the conversation centred on Ravjiani’s battle with left vocal cord paresis — a condition that brought uncertainty to the very voice through which he had built his identity as an artist.
Despite being told that he might never sing again, he continued to honour professional commitments while undergoing vocal therapy to regain his voice.
Reflecting on that difficult period, he said, “Sometimes, all you need is some light, some sunshine in the darkness.”
His account brought the discussion beyond artistic achievement to the patience, determination and hope required when life’s uncertainties challenge one’s deepest passion.
Finding the divine in everyday relationships
Away from the stage and recording studio, students also encountered the more personal side of the musician.
Speaking about his six dogs and the unconditional affection they bring into his life, Ravjiani shared a heartfelt reflection: “I find God in their eyes. No one will love you the way they do.”
The moment offered a gentle reminder that inspiration and emotional fulfilment can come from the simplest relationships, while compassion and connection remain central to a meaningful life.
The people, places and faith behind the music
Ravjiani revisited several formative experiences that helped shape his musical foundation.
He recalled how his uncle, Jagjit Singh, introduced him to Ustad Niyaz Ahmed Khan for his first musical lessons. He also spoke about the experience of recording with legendary singer S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, and the spiritual influence of his grandmother and the Hanuman Chalisa.
The story of his first studio — set up inside a marble factory in Worli — brought the conversation back to the humble beginnings behind a successful creative career.
For students aspiring to pursue music and other creative professions, these recollections highlighted how early learning, mentorship, discipline and the willingness to begin with modest resources can all contribute to artistic growth.
Music is to be experienced, not merely studied
Sharing his creative philosophy, Ravjiani spoke about his daughter Bipasha’s approach to learning music through practice rather than relying only on theory.
His reflections underlined a distinction between acquiring knowledge and developing an intimate understanding of an art form. Music, in his view, is not merely something to be studied; it is something to be experienced, felt and lived.
The conversation also explored the story behind the iconic song “Chammak Challo”, including an unexpected studio interaction with Akon that developed into a memorable musical collaboration.
Ravjiani reflected on the role of friendship, trust and openness in the creative process, while sharing his thoughts on remixes, changing listener preferences and the evolving relationship between music and younger audiences.
A musical finale to Youth Festival 2026
The session concluded on a celebratory note, with Ravjiani joining GLS University students for the launch of the university’s Youth Festival 2026.
Students also presented a special musical tribute prepared for the artist, creating a memorable closing moment that brought the conversation back to the power of music to connect generations.
Through “Decoded with Chandni Kapadia”, GLS University continues to provide students with opportunities to engage with inspiring personalities and learn from their real-life experiences.
Ravjiani’s interaction was ultimately about more than music and professional milestones. It was a reflection on resilience, creativity, relationships and the courage to continue following one’s passion — even when the next note seems uncertain.
