Mukti        Music 

Ragavan Manian (Advisor)

Ragavan Manian is a technologist turned musician. Ragavan studied Electrical Engineering at IIT Madras and University of Virginia, and worked for many years in the United States. He also has an MBA from the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad.

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After a decade and half in the field of high speed networks in Silicon Valley, he returned to India and has since then branched in other directions, notably music and education.

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Ragavan is a vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, band leader, songwriter and educator. A disciple of the late great Carnatic music doyen, Padma Vibushan Dr. M. Balamuralikrishna, Ragavan performs and teaches in a wide range of institutional and musical contexts—from engaging school children in musical connections with science and society, to working with avant-garde Electronica artistes/bands; from performing in orthodox Carnatic music sabhas to exploring Indian classical-inspired fusion crossovers through his trademark fusion sound “Raga Mania”.

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Ragavan acted and sang as Sant Tyagaraja in the acclaimed biopic “Endaro Mahanubhavulu”. His Carnatic compositions were featured in several publications, and have been received well at concerts. He has composed music for plays, documentaries and dance productions. He’s a sought-after session & live saxophonist and flautist. He also plays violin and slide guitar. He serves as Guru to numerous music students.

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Ragavan is the winner of the inaugural Bala Murali krishna puraskar from Vishaka cultural academy and Vipanchee arts academy. He is an A-grade artist at All India Radio, Chennai.

Ramya Shankar (Founder/Director)

Ramya Shankar is a BioMedical Engineer turned Vocalist and the founder of Mukti Music. After pursuing her Masters in BioMedical Engineering and an 8 year stint in at a Pharma-tech Startup, she pursued her life long calling to practice and teach Music. She is a dynamic and versatile Carnatic/Jazz World music vocalist, rooted in the rich traditions of Carnatic music. Born into a family of musicians, she was introduced to the enchanting world of music at a young age. Her journey began with training in Carnatic vocal music but was always curious about "sound" and how it can play an impact on our day to day lives.

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As her passion for music grew, Ramya embarked on a quest to explore diverse musical genres and embrace innovation. Fascinated by the expressive nature of jazz, she delved into the world of improvisation and harmony, blending it seamlessly with her Carnatic roots. This fusion of traditional and contemporary styles became the hallmark of her unique and soul-stirring performances. 

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Ramya Shankar believes in the transformative power of music to inspire change and drive social impact. Through her work, she uses music as a platform to amplify voices, raise awareness, and address pressing global issues. For her, music is not just an art form—it’s a vehicle for creating a better world.

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Ramya's distinctive voice and remarkable ability to seamlessly transition between genres have garnered her widespread acclaim and recognition. Her emotive renditions and soulful explorations have captivated audiences across the globe. Ramya Shankar is a member of The Recording Academy which hosts the Grammys every year.