From Mysuru to Bengaluru: The Musical Journey of B Ajaneesh Loknath
Born in Mysuru and raised in the serene town of Bhadravathi, composer B Ajaneesh Loknath firmly believes he was destined for a life in music. "My father, Loknath, was a renowned singer, and our home was always filled with music from the moment we woke up," shares the acclaimed composer, reflecting on a childhood immersed in melodies played on tapes and various instruments. His career reached new heights in 2025 with his memorable work on Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1, cementing his status in the Indian film industry.
Divine Intervention and a Fateful Move to Bengaluru
Ajaneesh describes his entry into major film projects as nothing short of miraculous. "I call it divine intervention. Whether composing for Kantara or its sequel, it felt like God's handiwork—drawing that music out of me and making me part of those films," he explains. This same divine force, he believes, guided his pivotal move to Bengaluru, a decision he has never regretted. His father ensured rigorous training in Carnatic classical, Hindustani music, and multiple instruments like keyboard, piano, and violin before he turned 18, laying a strong foundation.
As a teenager, Ajaneesh was captivated by Bengaluru, dreaming of making it his home. Destiny aligned when he traveled to the city with a musical troupe for a Shivaratri program, having skipped his second PU exams. "I was playing keyboard that day, and prominent musicians on stage were impressed. Learning I was Loknath's son, they insisted I stay back to pursue music professionally," he recalls. His mother, sensing his conviction, supported the move, turning a day's trip into a lifelong journey. "Music had already chosen me—and Bengaluru had claimed me as its own," he adds.
Struggles, Mentorship, and the City's Ambition
In his early years, Ajaneesh lived in Malleswaram, a neighborhood that holds deep emotional significance. "Even today, passing by brings a rush of emotions. That area witnessed my struggles and efforts to make a mark," he says. His first paycheck in 2003 was a modest ₹1,500, and between then and 2010, he took on diverse gigs—karaoke for ₹350, paid and unpaid assignments, TV serials, and school compositions—viewing each as valuable experience.
Adjusting to Bengaluru's fast pace after a quieter upbringing took time, but mentors like Kalyan and Bobby CR, now his studio partner, eased the transition. "Kalyan sir is my mentor. He once told me I had the talent to make it nationally, which overwhelmed me as a nobody," Ajaneesh notes. Collaborations with Rishab Shetty and Rakshit Shetty on Kirik Party proved transformative, leading to sustained success. "The urgency of the city grows on you. It sowed the seeds of ambition in my life," he emphasizes.
Cultural Roots and Spiritual Anchors in the City
Bengaluru's rich cultural fabric deeply influenced Ajaneesh's musical style. "This is the hub of bhavageethe. The works of L Subramaniam, Mysore Ananthaswamy, C Ashwath, and L Vaidyanathan inspired me profoundly," he explains. This exposure is why audiences often find his music rooted and relatable, shaped by the city's melodic sensibilities. "Ee galiyalli yeno ondu magic ide—there is magic in the air of this city," he says, capturing its essence.
A self-professed believer in the divine, Ajaneesh turns to spirituality during overwhelming times, often visiting a Shiva temple in JP Nagar. "Music and spirituality anchor me to this city. I came here young, was tested until I adapted, and Bengaluru rewards persistence and patience. If you stay the course, it gives you everything," he concludes, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between his art and urban environment.
