“I Attempted Suicide Twice by 18” - Ravi Basrur

Renowned music director Ravi Basrur, who has earned widespread recognition for his powerful background scores in films such as KGF, Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire and Toxic, made an emotional revelation about his early struggles at the teaser launch of the Telugu film Cult. Actor-director Vishwak Sen, who directed Cult, surprised Basrur on stage by presenting him with a Rolex watch as a gesture of appreciation for his contribution to music. Basrur said the honour meant much more to him than a material gift, describing it as recognition of his dedication and the soul he has put into music.

During the event, Basrur opened up about the difficult phase of his youth. He revealed that by the age of 18, he had attempted suicide twice during a period when he was struggling with severe financial and personal difficulties. He recalled that a man named Ravi heard his music, helped him during his darkest period, bought him a keyboard and gave him ₹35,000. Basrur said the life-changing act of kindness inspired him to adopt the name “Ravi” in gratitude to the person who had helped him. His emotional account offered a glimpse into the journey behind the composer’s success and moved those present at the event.