The Musical Journey of Self-Discovery: Mental Health and Identity with Basanth Muralikrishnan

In this week’s episode of From the Ashes, I sit down with Basanth Muralikrishnan, a world-class saxophonist based in Chennai, India. Basanth’s journey is one of blending worlds—combining the rich traditions of Carnatic (Indian classical) music with the fluidity of Western Classical and Jazz. Despite performing on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, what stands out most is his humility and warmth. Together, we explore the challenges and joys of being an artist, navigating neurodivergence, and finding balance between structure and spontaneity. Our conversation was as much about discovering our shared humanity as it was about our individual paths, making this episode a heartwarming exchange between two new friends.   Key Moments [00:02:53] – Basanth discusses his early life and how music, particularly his blend of Carnatic, Western Classical, and Jazz, shaped his identity. [00:11:50] – The impact of neurodivergence on Basanth's life and career, and how he has learned to navigate it. [00:16:11] – Basanth shares insights on the importance of spontaneity and structure, and how balancing these has influenced his music and life. [00:23:12] – Discussion on the pressures of being a professional musician and how Basanth has managed burnout and expectations. [00:29:00] – The evolution of artistic expression and the tension between tradition and innovation in music. [00:36:44] – The experience of growing up in an immigrant household and how it shaped Basanth's worldview and career. [00:48:04] – Final reflections on the importance of self-acceptance and creating a healthy relationship with one's art.   About Our Guest: Basanth Muralikrishnan is a saxophonist who hails from a family of musicians, seamlessly blending Carnatic (Indian classical), Western Classical, and Jazz in his playing. Born and raised in the U.S., Basanth now resides in Chennai. He began his formal Carnatic vocal training at the age of three under his mother, Rose Muralikrishnan, a renowned Carnatic vocalist, teacher, and composer. Simultaneously, he trained on the veena and keyboard under his father, N. Muralikrishnan (NMK), a veena virtuoso and a pioneer in developing Carnatic music on the keyboard. His saxophone journey began under the tutelage of maestro Marco Zaragoza, with guidance from both his parents. Basanth has graced prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and has toured with notable artists such as Benny Dayal, Sean Roldan, and Stephen Devassy. Connect with Basanth: Basanth Muralikrishnan on Instagram: @basnathermath   More about Valerie Beck & From the Ashes: Intrepid Wellness Website Instagram: @intrepidwellness.val YouTube: @intrepidwellness562 Join our E-mail List   Are you ready to Evolve? Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "From the Ashes." My goal for From the Ashes is to inspire listeners to embrace their personal growth and evolution towards a fulfilling, vibrant life. If you are feeling the call to uplevel your life, then let's talk. Click here to book a 30-minute Evolve YOU session with Valerie. Looking forward to connecting! Join the Conversation Leave a review and share this episode with your friends to help spread the word! Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes of "From the Ashes," where every story ignites hope and healing.