My Journey: 13 Years Behind the Decks
Beyond the bass and the lights, this is my story of starting as a teenager in a male-dominated industry and the real talk behind being a freelance artist.
I started DJing at 16, breaking into a space where not many women were seen. This is a bit of my story, my collaboration with L'Oréal, and how the energy from the crowd gives me the strength to keep pushing boundaries and rebuilding stronger every time.
Being a freelance DJ isn't always easy. I'm opening up about the mental health challenges that come with this career, like financial instability and burnout, and why it's so important to ask for help. This is a look at the real struggles behind the highlight reel.
About My Journey & Collaborations
Being a freelance DJ in Mumbai is not always about festival lights and bass drops. Whether it is balancing the highs of a brand collaboration or navigating the isolation that can hit after the crowd leaves, I keep it 100 with you guys. These snippets share the unedited reality of the grind, including the mental health battles I have faced and why I choose to show up exactly as I am.
I started this journey at 16, way before the Instagram highlight reels. Breaking into the Mumbai nightlife scene was a lesson in resilience, where every gig was a chance to prove myself in a male-dominated space.
The Reality of the Freelance Hustle
Being a freelance artist is rewarding, but it comes with a unique set of challenges. I have dealt with financial instability, the constant pressure of self-doubt, and the burnout that comes from chasing the next big set. I share these stories because I want to normalize the conversation around mental health in our community. If you are struggling with the isolation or the uncertainty of this career, know that you are not alone.
Why Collaborations Matter
My work with brands like L’Oréal and Maybelline is not just about a paycheck. It is about aligning with causes that matter—like mental health awareness and self-belief. These collaborations allow me to reach a wider audience and show that being a DJ is about more than just mixing tracks; it is about building a connection, having a voice, and using your platform to support others.
What You Will Find Here
This cluster is for anyone curious about the human side of the DJ lifestyle. Whether you are an aspiring artist looking for career reality checks or a fan wanting to know the person behind the console, this is my unfiltered space. I hope these insights help you navigate your own journey with a little more confidence and a lot less guesswork.
Looking for specific DJ insights?
Find help with DJing, technical setups, or industry advice.
More from DJ Education by Shanaya S
More services by Shanaya S