Vaibhav Chauhan, an Indian musician and filmmaker, has charted an inspiring journey from the humble surroundings of Noida, India, to carving out a niche for himself in London’s creative scene. His path is a testament to passion, persistence, and innovation, as he steadily rises in the music and film industries in both India and the UK.
Growing up in a small village in Noida, Chauhan’s love for the arts began at an early age, though his family had no ties to the entertainment world. “As a child, I always wanted to tell stories to the world,” Chauhan reminisces. Despite his aspirations, he initially kept his creative dreams hidden from his family, who were focused on more traditional career paths.
Chauhan’s big break came when he worked as an assistant director on the Bollywood horror-comedy Shootiyapa, alongside veteran actor Shakti Kapoor. It was during this project that his musical talent came to the fore. Taking a chance, Chauhan pitched a song idea to the producers, who were impressed enough to let him compose the film’s title track. This pivotal moment solidified his desire to merge his twin passions for music and storytelling.
His work in Bollywood soon expanded to South Indian cinema, where he collaborated with renowned actor Prithviraj Sukumaran. These projects allowed Chauhan to gain invaluable experience and establish his distinct artistic voice.
In 2021, Chauhan made a bold move to London to pursue a Master’s in Film Directing at the prestigious Met Film School in Ealing. The transition was anything but easy. “Coming to London was like starting from scratch,” Chauhan explains. “I had limited resources, but I knew I had to create my own path.” To support himself and build his portfolio, he began producing videos for local artists, often working for free in exchange for studio time to refine his own music.
Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new culture and overcoming language barriers, Chauhan’s Hindi music struck a chord with London audiences, underscoring the universal power of music. “To enjoy music, you don’t need to understand the language—you just need to feel it,” he reflects. Over time, his determination earned him a loyal following in London’s vibrant music scene.
Chauhan’s creative vision extends beyond music. His education in London inspired him to apply filmmaking principles to his music videos, taking on the role of creative director. This integration of storytelling and music showcases his innovative approach to art, blending cinematic narratives with evocative soundscapes.
From performing in Delhi’s Mandi House theatre scene to collaborating with Bollywood and South Indian cinema stalwarts, and now making waves in London, Chauhan’s journey is a beacon of hope for aspiring artists. His story underscores the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in the arts, demonstrating that barriers—whether cultural, linguistic, or financial—can be overcome with passion and creativity.
As Vaibhav Chauhan continues to evolve as an artist, his journey serves as a powerful reminder of the universal reach of storytelling and the transformative power of the arts.