Today we’d like to introduce you to Mahalakshmi Krishnan.
Hi Mahalakshmi, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I came to the United States as an immigrant in the early 1990s — full of dreams, aspirations, and an unshakable sense of purpose. I was young, fearless, and ready to explore an unknown world. I still remember walking into a thrift store to buy my very first winter jacket — it was freezing in Chicago, but I was filled with the warmth of determination.
Graduate school was both challenging and transformative. Every experience — from my coursework and professors to my roommates and campus life — taught me resilience, discipline, and fearlessness. I supported myself through school by working in the library during the week and performing music on weekends. As a trained classical singer, I soon became known in the local music circles, which helped me stay connected to my roots while adapting to a new country.
After earning my Master’s in Economics and an MBA, I worked at Freddie Mac in business and strategic analysis. It was a fulfilling corporate chapter, but my heart always belonged to music. My husband, Krishna, has been my unwavering pillar of support, constantly encouraging me to follow my artistic passion.
In the early 2000s, a brief stint in Mumbai opened new creative doors — I had the opportunity to do playback singing for films, record music, and act. When we eventually returned to Houston, I felt it was time to give back what music had given me. In 2017, I founded Shreekrithi School of Music — a humble beginning that has grown into a vibrant community of passionate learners and teachers.
At Shreekrithi, we train children and adults in various styles of Indian music, blending tradition with modern learning. I’m blessed with an extraordinary team of teachers who share the same vision of excellence and compassion.
When the pandemic struck, we, like everyone else, faced unprecedented challenges. But it also became clear that music was our anchor — a healing force that united us through uncertain times. We transitioned to an online platform, and today our students join us from across the globe.
It has been an incredible journey of faith, courage, and creativity — one that continues to evolve every day.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has definitely not been smooth — it’s been filled with challenges, uncertainties, and moments of quiet disappointment. In the earlier days, much of my work went unrecognized. We didn’t have the luxury of social media or reality shows to showcase our art or connect with a wider audience. Reaching the right people and making sure your music was heard often felt like an uphill climb.
When you’re young and full of dreams, it can be deeply disheartening when your efforts don’t see the light of day. I remember spending weeks recording songs that were never released, acting in a film that was eventually shelved, and working on countless AD films that never made it to the final cut.
At the time, those experiences felt like setbacks — but looking back now, I see them as essential stepping stones. Every missed opportunity, every unrecognized effort taught me patience, resilience, and a deeper understanding of what it means to be an artist. I learned to create for the joy of creation itself, not just for validation. And that shift in perspective has been the most valuable part of my journey.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My work spans across several creative paths — I am a composer, singer, teacher, actress, and collaborative artist. Over the years, I’ve also been invited to emcee many high-profile cultural events, which has allowed me to connect with diverse audiences in meaningful ways.
As a musician and composer, my goal has always been to create art that transcends boundaries. I love collaborating with artists from different cultural traditions and musical genres.
Recently, we presented a production titled “Swadesh Symphony,” a project very close to my heart. It was a musical journey through the works of poets, saints, and composers across centuries and languages. What made it truly special was the multicultural ensemble of musicians — from India, Latin America and Houston — all coming together to celebrate unity through music.
Teaching is another deeply fulfilling part of my journey. Through my school, Shreekrithi School of Music, and our global online classes, we train over 200 students in various styles of Indian music, including Thiruppugazh — a sacred and intricate form of devotional poetry. Many of my students are senior citizens who find immense peace, solace, and joy in these sessions. My oldest student is 94 years young, and witnessing their enthusiasm and spiritual connection to music continues to inspire me every single day.
What I am most proud of is my ability to connect with people of all ages and from all ethnic backgrounds. Whether I am teaching a young child their first note or guiding a senior through a meditative rendition, I find immense joy in the shared energy that music creates. I believe that’s what truly sets me apart — my desire to build a community grounded in spirituality and mindfulness through music.
What’s next?
My vision for the future is simple yet deeply meaningful — to continue spreading joy and healing through art. I want to create communities of like-minded individuals who believe in using their creativity to make a positive difference in the world.
Whether it’s through music, poetry, dance, or storytelling, I hope to build spaces where people can express themselves, find connection, and experience inner peace. One of my heartfelt goals is to spend more time with lonely seniors — to bring companionship, conversation, and the healing power of music into their lives.
I’m also excited about exploring new creative avenues. I recently played the role of Dr. Patel in a Hollywood short film titled Absence of Heart, produced by CinemaHill Productions, which is slated for release early next year.
At this stage in my journey, I feel it’s truly time to give back to the community that has supported and shaped me. If my art can bring comfort, inspire hope, or touch even one heart, I would consider that the greatest success of all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mahalakshmikrishnan.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maha.krishnan.7/
Image Credits
Golden Ray Photography
