"A DECADE BEHIND THE MIC"

THE BEGINNING: STEPPING INTO THE WORLD OF SOUND

From a young age, I felt a spark for the arts, but I wasn’t quite sure which direction to take. It wasn’t until I cleared my 12th grade that I discovered my love for music. I enrolled in a part-time performing arts college, where I studied Hindustani classical music, with a focus on tabla, a traditional percussion instrument. This experience opened up new possibilities for me. Along with my peers, we found a shared interest in fusion music, blending Indian and Western styles.

One day, we decided to create our own album, combining our diverse musical influences. I naturally took on the role of handling the technical side—recording, editing, and mixing the tracks. It was during this process that I truly found my passion for sound. Working on that album was a turning point, as it allowed me to explore the full scope of sound recording and post-production. The tracks we created caught the attention of local media, and we were featured in the city section of the newspaper. This recognition was a significant moment in my journey, sparking a deep desire to pursue sound professionally.

Before entering the world of cinema, I started my career in radio as a promo producer, Radio gave me a solid understanding of sound design and its emotional impact on audiences. However, I wanted to explore more, which led me to the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune. At FTII, I gained not just technical expertise but also a deeper appreciation for sound as an art form. This experience sharpened my skills in blending technical precision with creative storytelling, preparing me for the dynamic world of film and television.

MUMBAI: THE HUB OF INDIAN CINEMA

Mumbai is the bustling hub of India’s film and entertainment industry. From big-budget Bollywood films to intimate indie projects, the diversity in content and scale is enormous. For a production sound mixer, the city presents unique challenges. The crowded streets, the constant hustle, and the unpredictable weather can sometimes make sound recording a daunting task. However, Mumbai’s diversity also offers endless learning opportunities. Whether it’s recording in the controlled environment of a studio or capturing raw, natural sound on a crowded street, each day brings something new. I’ve had the privilege of working on a wide range of projects—feature films, advertisements, web series, documentaries—and each one has honed my skills further.

GROWTH THROUGH CHALLENGES

Over the years, I’ve learned that every sound is important, and even the smallest detail can make or break a scene. The work of a production sound mixer is often invisible but critical. The audience may not realize it, but clear dialogue, crisp ambient noise, and well-timed effects are all part of the soundscape that immerses them in the story.

In these 10 years, technology has evolved, making sound mixing more dynamic and precise. I’ve adapted to new software, recording devices, and techniques that have allowed me to push the boundaries of what can be achieved. But with advancement comes new challenges. Tight budgets, shorter timelines, and ever-increasing expectations are part and parcel of working in an industry that never sleeps.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS AND LESSONS LEARNED

Working on high-pressure film sets has taught me the value of teamwork. Collaborating with directors, cinematographers, and actors, and understanding their vision for sound, has been a rewarding experience. Some of my favorite moments have been during intense shoots where everything seems to be working against you—whether it's unpredictable weather, technical glitches, or logistical issues—but you still manage to capture the perfect sound.

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the importance of patience and adaptability. As a production sound mixer, you're often the first to arrive and the last to leave the set. The hours can be long and the environment unpredictable, but each project offers a new perspective and an opportunity to create something truly unique.

THE EVOLUTION OF THE INDUSTRY

The Indian film and entertainment industry has grown exponentially in the last decade. The rise of OTT platforms and digital content has opened doors to more opportunities for sound professionals. Today, there’s a greater appreciation for sound design, and the role of a production sound mixer has gained more

recognition.
While big-budget productions continue to dominate, independent cinema is making waves, often pushing the boundaries of storytelling. As sound professionals, we are challenged to innovate, creating immersive soundscapes that add depth to these unique narratives. The Indian audience has also become more discerning, expecting world-class sound quality, which only drives us to excel further.

LOOKING AHEAD

As I look back at my journey, I feel a deep sense of accomplishment and gratitude. The last 10 years have been filled with learning, growth, and endless passion for my craft. The future of sound recording in India, especially in Mumbai, looks promising, with more technological advancements and a greater emphasis on the importance of sound in storytelling.

For anyone aspiring to enter the world of sound, my advice would be to embrace every challenge with an open mind and heart. Sound is an art form, and it’s the passion that will drive you forward in an industry that is ever-evolving. I’m excited to see what the next decade holds and how I can continue to contribute to this beautiful craft.

- PRANAV KOTHI

web link : www.sonoroussoundcraft.com 

IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10273323/