Sayeri Gupta's journey is a melodic odyssey that harmonizes her roots in Silchar, Assam, with her current home in Melbourne, Australia. Her narrative unfolds with the rhythm of a well-composed symphony, weaving together her dual passions for finance and music into a tapestry of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to her art.
Born and raised in the culturally rich town of Silchar, Sayeri's upbringing was steeped in the timeless melodies of Hindustani classical music. With a mother who’s a trained classical singer, aunts are singers blending beautifully, and a brother skilled in tabla, music wasn't just a passion for Sayeri; it was an integral part of her identity.
From the tender age of four or five, she embarked on her musical journey under her mother's tutelage, learning the intricacies of Hindustani classical music and earning a Visharad degree from Bhatkhande University Lucknow, mentored by Late Guruji Moti Lal Sinha Ji. This journey wasn't merely about mastering notes; it was about embodying the grace and finesse inherent in every melody.
In 2015, Sayeri embarked on a new chapter in her life, transitioning to Melbourne with her husband and their daughter. Initially drawn by her husband's IT placement, she found herself navigating the Australian workforce post-COVID, eventually finding her stride in the banking industry as a business direct advisor. On weekdays, she immerses herself in the world of finance, while weekends offer a harmonious escape as she takes centre stage with her musical group. Balancing these two passions, she finds fulfillment in both realms of her professional life.
Despite the geographical distance from her roots, Sayeri's love for music remained unwavering. In Melbourne, she sought out like-minded individuals, attending events, and fostering connections that ultimately led to the formation of her own musical group. Today, after eight enriching years, their ensemble spreads joy through live performances across Victoria and Sydney, embodying a journey of growth, resilience, and steady dedication to the art form that binds them all.
Yet, the artistic landscape in Melbourne presents its challenges, particularly in terms of sustaining a livelihood solely through performances. Unlike the vibrant scene in India, where musicians were fully immersed in their craft, artists in Australia often find themselves relegated to weekend gigs, leaving weekdays devoid of artistic engagement.
Despite these limitations, Sayeri considers herself fortunate to be surrounded by a diverse and immensely talented community of artists, collaborating with organizations like Khelaiya Productions and Melody Theatre to breathe life into musical theatre and delve into the rich musical heritage of Bengal with groups like Shurulok. Each interaction with fellow artists is an opportunity for growth and learning, a testament to the depth of talent that thrives within Melbourne's creative sphere.
One profoundly touching encounter during the nascent stages of Sayeri's musical journey in Melbourne remains etched in her memory. Serenading patrons at a local restaurant with Lata Mangeshkar's "Lag Jaa Gale.’
As the final notes hung in the air, a middle-aged woman approached Sayeri, her eyes shimmering with emotion. With a gentle smile, she pressed a hundred dollar note into her hand, a gesture of appreciation that transcended mere currency. Then, placing her hand atop her head, she closed her eyes and bestowed upon Sayeri a heartfelt blessing.
This encounter left an indelible mark on Sayeri, serving as a poignant reminder of the profound impact music can have on our lives, uniting hearts across generations and cultures. The hundred dollars’ note remains a cherished keepsake.
Living in Australia, amidst the hustle and bustle of corporate life, Sayeri finds herself yearning for the cherished bonds of camaraderie and kinship that defined her days in India.
Yet, amid the whirlwind of obligations, she finds solace in the enduring connections forged through shared experiences and cherished memories. For her, success transcends material wealth or professional accolades; it is intrinsically tied to the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in every aspect of life.
As an artist, Sayeri believes in the transformative power of music to inspire change and unite communities.
She sees it as her responsibility to leverage this gift to make a positive impact on society, aspiring to reach every corner of the world, spreading happiness and love while fostering a deeper connection to cultural roots. With the support and blessings of others, she is confident that her efforts will contribute to a brighter, more harmonious world for all.
According to Sayeri, happiness is akin to gazing into a mirror and seeing genuine happiness reflected at us. In her view, this reflection signifies the attainment of success in its purest form.
By Nandita Chakraborty
