Meet Sauraj Patil | MBA & Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sauraj Patil and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sauraj, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Hailing from a middle-class Indian family with both parents dedicated to the Government Sector, my journey took a unique turn driven by a passion for entrepreneurship and music. Despite the absence of a family background in business, I harbored a fervent desire to create something of my own that would not only be sustainable but also serve as an inspiration.

My foray into the world of business began during my undergraduate years, where my love for playing the guitar since grade 9 intersected with my pursuit of an Engineering degree. In the second year of my studies, I seized an opportunity to join a music company as a Sales and Operations Manager. It was in this role that I honed my skills in the intricate dynamics of the musical instrument retail and eCommerce industry.

Following the completion of my undergraduate degree, driven by a burning entrepreneurial spirit, I embarked on the journey of establishing my own business. Leveraging my dual expertise as a musician and a Computer Engineer, I founded a music retail business in the bustling city of Mumbai, India. Simultaneously, I launched an eCommerce platform aimed at importing high-quality musical instruments from across the globe and distributing them to various parts of Asia.

What started as a solo venture evolved into a thriving enterprise with the establishment of three physical stores and a successful online presence. Collaborations with renowned vendors such as Yamaha Music, Casio, Gibson, and Ibanez further propelled the business to success.

This entrepreneurial endeavor served as an invaluable learning ground, providing me with hands-on experience in sales, operations, finance, taxation, and human resources. As a touring musician, I confronted the challenge of delegation head-on, mastering the art of managing the business remotely. This dual role not only broadened my skill set but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the delicate balance between creative pursuits and entrepreneurial responsibilities.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Since 2014, my musical journey has been an exhilarating odyssey, marked by collaborations with numerous artists from the Indian Music Industry. From traversing the length and breadth of India to gracing international stages in North America (USA and Canada), Africa (South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt), Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia), and the Middle East (UAE, Qatar), my experiences have been as diverse as the melodies I’ve strummed. I graduated from Boston University in August 2023 with an MBA degree with high honors and got invited into the Beta Gamma Sigma Honor society for standing in the top 10% of my class.

A pivotal chapter in this adventure unfolded when I assumed the role of Lead Guitar player for India’s biggest commercial singer, Neha Kakkar, in January 2018. Since then, I’ve been an integral part of her musical escapades, accompanying her on major tours and public appearances. Noteworthy among these are the 2018 March-April North America tour alongside Atif Aslam, the 2018 July South Africa Tour, the 2019 North America Tour alongside the renowned Sonu Nigam, and the 2019 United Kingdom Tour.

Performing at prestigious venues in iconic cities such as New York, Los Angeles, London, and Johannesburg has been a surreal experience. As a vital contributor to the music arrangement of Neha Kakkar’s band, I’ve also graced the stages of prominent award shows, including the IIFA Awards and the Radio Mirchi Awards, showcasing my prowess on live television.

Having had the privilege of touring with not only Neha Kakkar but also around 30 other Indian artists, I attribute this journey’s success to a relentless work ethic, disciplined practice, strategic networking, and the goodwill fostered along the way. Navigating the highly competitive and volatile music industry necessitates more than just musical talent; it demands loyalty, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results even in the most challenging circumstances.

I believe my story underscores the fact that one doesn’t need a familial background in art or business to attain musical and entrepreneurial success. If someone like me can carve a niche in this dynamic industry, then the doors of possibility are open for anyone willing to embrace the journey with dedication and resilience.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Living in Boston for just under a year has given me the opportunity to discover some incredible spots and experiences in this vibrant city. If you’re a fan of craft beer, I highly recommend checking out Night Shift or Trillium breweries for a laid-back and enjoyable atmosphere.

For a tranquil and scenic escape, a leisurely walk through Boston Common is a must. The park offers a peaceful retreat right in the heart of the city, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

If you’re a food enthusiast, Boston’s downtown area is a culinary haven. One standout recommendation is Ruka, an Asian fusion restaurant that tantalizes the taste buds with its unique flavors and innovative dishes. Additionally, the Boston Harbor provides a picturesque setting to relax and soak in the maritime charm.

For a fun-filled evening with friends, Lucky Strike is the go-to spot. It seamlessly combines bowling, arcade games, and a delightful dinner experience, making it a perfect destination for a lively and entertaining night out.

Boston truly has something for everyone, from diverse cuisines to scenic parks and exciting entertainment options. I hope you enjoy exploring these gems as much as I have!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A heartfelt acknowledgment is due to my incredible wife, whose unwavering support has been the bedrock of my journey thus far. Through the diverse roles I’ve undertaken, her steadfast encouragement has been a constant source of strength, making every challenge surmountable and every success more meaningful.

I also want to express my deepest gratitude to my mentor, Mr. Viresh Loni, whose consistent guidance has been instrumental in shaping my professional path. His wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering belief in my potential have been invaluable assets, propelling me forward during moments of uncertainty and self-discovery.

Additionally, my profound thanks go to my parents, who have been steadfast pillars of support throughout my life. Their commitment to ensuring I have the best opportunities has laid the foundation for my journey, instilling in me the values of hard work, determination, and resilience.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saurajpatil/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saurajp/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saurajvpatil

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ-0FqXVEC9wgfVInSh9VLw