Music is an integral part of Indian culture and entertainment. From classical to folk, from pop to rock, from Bollywood to indie, music has the power to touch the hearts and minds of millions of listeners. But who are the people behind the music? Who are the ones who create, compose and direct the musical pieces that we enjoy? And how much do they earn for their work?
In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of music directors in India. We will look at who are the highest paid music directors in India, how they became successful, and why they deserve their fame and fortune. We will also share some tips and insights on how to become a music director in India, if you are interested in pursuing this career path. To know about highest paid singer in India, view here.
Who are the Highest Paid Music Directors in India?
According to various reports and sources, the highest-paid music director in India as of 2023 is Anirudh Ravichander. He is a young and talented musician who has composed music for several blockbuster films in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi languages. He has also sung and performed many hit songs that have gone viral on social media platforms.
Anirudh Ravichander reportedly charged Rs 10 crore for his work in Shah Rukh Khan’s film Jawan, directed by Atlee. This makes him the highest paid music director in India, surpassing the fees of music maestro AR Rahman, who charges around Rs 8 crore per film.
Top 10 Indian Music Directors
- Anirudh Ravichander: He is a young and talented musician who has composed music for several blockbuster films in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi languages.
- AR Rahman: He is a legendary music director who has made a mark in both Indian and international music scenes. He has won two Oscars, two Grammys, a Golden Globe and a BAFTA for his work in films like Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours, Jodhaa Akbar and Rockstar. He has also composed music for Hollywood films like The Hundred-Foot Journey, Million Dollar Arm and Pelé: Birth of a Legend.
- Pritam Chakraborty: He is one of the most popular and versatile music directors in Bollywood. He has composed music for popular films like Barfi, Dangal, Raees, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Jagga Jasoos. He is known for his catchy tunes, eclectic genres and collaborations with various singers and musicians.
- Vishal-Shekhar: They are a dynamic duo who have composed music for many hit films in Bollywood and other languages. They have composed music for films like Ra.One, Chennai Express, Bang Bang, Sultan and Tiger Zinda Hai. They are also known for their live performances and judging reality shows.
Read About: Highest Paid Director in India
- Amit Trivedi: He is an innovative and experimental music director who has created some of the most memorable soundtracks in Bollywood. He has composed music for films like Dev.D, Udaan, Lootera, Queen and Udta Punjab. He is also a singer and a multi-instrumentalist who plays guitar, piano, keyboard and drums.
- Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy: They are a trio who have composed music for over 50 films in various languages. They have composed music for films like Dil Chahta Hai, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Rock On, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. They are also known for their fusion of Indian and Western musical elements.
- Ilaiyaraaja: He is a musical genius who has composed over 7000 songs and provided film scores for more than 1000 films in various languages. He is considered one of the greatest composers of Indian cinema and has been awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor. He is also an instrumentalist, singer and songwriter who plays various instruments like guitar, keyboard, harmonium and flute.
- RD Burman: He was a legendary music director who revolutionized the music industry in the 1970s and 1980s. He composed music for over 300 films in various languages and genres. He is regarded as one of the most influential composers of Indian cinema and has been credited with introducing electronic music, jazz, rock and disco to Bollywood.
- Nadeem-Shravan: They were a duo who reigned the Bollywood music industry in the 1990s. They composed music for over 120 films and created some of the most iconic songs of that era. They are known for their melodious tunes, romantic lyrics and use of classical instruments.
- Jatin-Lalit: They were a duo who composed music for over 70 films in Bollywood. They composed music for films like Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Mohabbatein and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. They are known for their catchy songs, lively beats and use of modern instruments.
How did they Become Successful Music Directors?
The journey of becoming a successful music director in India is not easy. It requires passion, talent, hard work, dedication and luck. Here are some common steps that most music directors follow to achieve their dreams:
- Gain relevant skills: To become a music director, you need to have a good knowledge of music theory, instruments, genres, styles and trends. You also need to have a creative flair and an ear for melody, harmony and rhythm. You can learn these skills by taking formal or informal courses, attending workshops, watching tutorials or practicing on your own.
- Build a portfolio: To showcase your skills and potential as a music director, you need to have a portfolio of your work. You can create your own original compositions or remixes, record demos or covers, or collaborate with other artists. You can also participate in competitions or events to gain exposure and recognition.
- Network with industry professionals: To get opportunities and projects as a music director, you need to network with industry professionals such as producers, directors, actors, singers, lyricists and musicians. You can attend industry events or seminars, join online forums or groups, or reach out to them via social media or email. You can also seek mentorship or guidance from experienced or established music directors.
- Be flexible and adaptable: To succeed as a music director in India, you need to be flexible and adaptable to different situations and demands. You need to be able to work with different genres, languages, formats and platforms. You also need to be able to handle feedback, criticism and pressure. You need to be open to learning new things and experimenting with new ideas.
Why do they Deserve their Fame and Fortune?
Music directors in India deserve their fame and fortune because they contribute significantly to the entertainment industry and the society at large. Here are some reasons why:
- They create art: Music directors create art that enriches our lives with beauty, emotion and meaning. They express themselves through their music and inspire others to do the same. They also preserve and promote our culture and heritage through their music.
- They entertain us: Music directors entertain us with their music that makes us laugh, cry, dance or sing along. They provide us with joy, relaxation and escape from our daily stressors. They also challenge us with their music that makes us think, feel or act differently.
- They educate us: Music directors educate us with their music that teaches us about various topics such as history, geography, science, politics or social issues. They also expose us to different perspectives, cultures and experiences through their music. They also encourage us to develop our musical skills and appreciation through their music.
- They influence us: Music directors influence us with their music that shapes our tastes, preferences and opinions. They also influence our moods, behaviors and actions through their music. They also influence our society and culture through their music.
Conclusion
If you are passionate about music and want to become a music director in India, you need to follow the steps mentioned above and work hard to achieve your goals. You also need to have a unique style and vision that sets you apart from the rest. You also need to be ready to face the challenges and opportunities that come your way.
We hope this article has given you some useful information and insights on how to become a music director in India. If you found it helpful, please share it with your friends and family who might be interested in this career path. Thank you for reading!