Ronit Vohra strikes a chord with his passion for music.

By Aiden Jewelle Gonzales

Although a clear musical enthusiast, Ronit Vohra’s journey as a singer and musician was not straightforward. Born in Dehradun, he attended the Summer Valley School Dehradun before completing his Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from the K.R Mangalam School of Architecture and Planning (SAP) in Delhi. However, he heeded a different clarion call and chose to create art through music instead, growing his base in Mumbai and beyond. A performer at heart, Ronit has played in weddings in Phuket, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, and Pattaya, but is soon bringing his soulful strains to the Bangkok crowd, hoping to inspire others to also follow their passions and live life in a major key.

What started your interest in music?

I was six when I started learning the guitar, and I went for classes for about two months, self-teaching myself the rest. My dad’s sister is a trained classical singer and my interest in music developed more when I started sitting with her during her riyaaz sessions. My passion would never have taken off without my family – which comprises my mom, dad and my younger brother – who have always been pillars of support.

Since starting out, you’ve performed internationally and been quite successful in your field. What has your musical journey been like?

From Dehradun to Delhi to Mumbai, it has been an amazing learning experience. I came to Mumbai in 2015 to work as an architect but I always wanted to do something in music, and this city is the music hub of the country. That year, I got the chance to perform at this beautiful café named Sirocco and that’s how it all began. I started off as a solo singer, and I was the first artist in Mumbai to start the trend of unplugged Bollywood music in clubs and cafés. Managing both my job and my shows was quite a task! A year into my singing career, I quit my architecture job. I did not know whether I’d make a career in music so the choice of leaving my job was the most difficult one I had ever made, but I kept going and later it all fell into place. I never thought that just my voice and my guitar would take me places!

What genre of music do you usually perform, and is it different from the genre of music that you prefer personally?

I perform pure Bollywood music which includes soulful, Sufi, pop, peppy numbers, etc. One needs to be aware of all the genres that the audience likes so I try to be as versatile as possible, and that way I think my music can appeal to every age group. Personally, though, I love singing soulful numbers.

What do you feel is the most unique draw about performing in Bangkok?

This is going to be my first official performance in Bangkok and I am really excited. I feel that people in Bangkok have a very warm sense of welcome. Since there are a lot of Bollywood lovers in the city, I am sure that they’ll like my music. I believe that music connects people in an altogether different way, and that the vibe in Bangkok is going to be lit!

Can you tell us about challenges you’ve faced in your journey?

I wasn’t sure whether I’d be able to survive in the industry, and this was a particular challenge for me because I was all by myself in the city, and I had quit my job for my music. It was a huge decision, but I always believed in myself and just did what I had to do. It has been and continues to be a struggle, but I love it! Mumbai has given me a lot and I’ll forever be grateful for it.

What do you enjoy most about your career?

Travelling, meeting new people, and exploring new cultures. The most important thing is that music was always my passion and I am lucky enough to follow it. It is the most amazing feeling when one gets to do what they have always loved. Music completes me!

Over the years, what accomplishments are you most proud of?

I feel privileged that I have come a long way and I am excited that the journey has just begun. One of my biggest accomplishments is that I got to perform for Salman Khan and what’s more amazing is that I have been doing that on a regular basis. Spreading love through music is something that I am really proud of.

Do you have any advice for anyone in the same industry or wishing to start out?

Follow your passion, do your thing, and do not let the zeal die inside of you. Never compare yourself with anyone. Rather than being concerned about what others think about your talent or how they will react, be more connected to your art, and always respect it.

Where do you see yourself in the future, both personally and professionally?

Once a musician, always a musician! That will always be one constant in my life. I wish to create more original music and make my family proud, and I see myself travelling the world, putting smiles on people’s faces.