“I am Rama Gamini, Violinist, Writer, and Musician. I was born in Vijayawada, into a family connected to the Vrinda Muktha lineage. Though we weren’t closely involved with this heritage, I believe it influenced us, as my love for music felt like it had always been a part of me.
My journey began with my childhood guru, Sri Lanka Venkateshwar Rao Garu. When my mother introduced me to him, he told her, “This child will become a violinist.” His words inspired me, and under his guidance, I started learning the violin.
But life took a turn when my father, a businessman, passed away in a tragic accident. I was only six years old. As the youngest of four siblings, I saw how my mother had to take on everything. She had studied only up to 10th grade and had no financial support, but she never let that stop her.
Music had always been my mother’s passion too, though she wasn’t a performer. She took a certificate course in music and started teaching. Her lessons brought in some income, though the fees were very small. Later, with my uncle’s help, she learned typewriting, passed her exams, and found work as a typist. Her determination kept our family going.
During this time, my violin lessons had to stop. We moved houses, and continuing my training wasn’t possible. My dream of becoming a violinist felt like it was slipping away.
Years passed. I got married, had a son, and focused on my family. But my passion for music stayed with me, waiting for the right time to resurface.
About a decade ago, I decided to start again. After nearly 20 years away from music, I joined Bhakta RamaDas College under Potti Sriramulu University in Hyderabad. From the basics, I completed a six-year diploma in violin under my guru, Sharada Chalam Garu. Those years helped me reconnect with what I loved. I am forever Grateful to my Gurus Sri Akella Mallikarjuna Sharma Garu and Sri Vaidyanathan BalaSubrahmaniyam garu in my life.
As I progressed, I learned sound engineering, explored playing the keyboard, and began composing music. I eventually set up a small music studio of my own, where I could create freely.
Later, I’ve worked on several projects that mean a lot to me. Chilkur Tejam, Bhagavad Gita with Telugu Poetry, and Shivoham Bhaje are some of my noted works. Composing Bharatheeyatha for the Satsankalpa Foundation in the USA was also a proud moment in my journey. It was performed in Connecticut.
Music, for me, is more than an art form. It’s where I find peace and meaning. I’ve also explored writing as another way to express myself. My novel, Naa Teerpu, won the prestigious Anil Award from Swathi monthly magazine. Several of my short stories have also received recognition: Karnam won the CP Brown Academy Award, Dwaram won first prize from the American Telugu Association, and Tudhi Vinnapam won first place in a Ugadi contest. Writing, like music, helps me reflect on life and share my thoughts.
Now, I work on music full-time, taking on new projects and collaborations. I am blessed to have Sangita & Sahityams in my life to an extent. My family has supported me through every step of this journey, and I’m forever grateful to them.
To young people, I would say this: follow what truly matters to you. Don’t chase success for fame or money. What matters most is being able to look at yourself in the mirror and feel at peace with your choices. Be honest with yourself and let your inner voice guide you, and believe me, it’s never too late to pursue what you love.”