Over 35 of India’s most renowned musicians have launched Goongoonalo, the nation’s first artist-led, artist-owned cultural ecosystem, marking a significant milestone for the music industry. Renowned poet Javed Akhtar, Grammy-winning musician Shankar Mahadevan, and techie Sridhar Ranganathan founded the platform, with Sherley Singh leading it as CEO. Goongoonalo aims to revolutionize how music is produced, consumed, and shared.
Goongoonalo is intended to provide a human-centered, soulful alternative to the algorithm-driven music industry. The platform promises direct fan interaction, poetic intimacy, unreleased masterpieces, and creative content.
Javed Akhtar:
In response to it, Javed Akhtar said, “May 5, 2025, will be remembered as a historic day. Goongoonalo gives artists the freedom to create without the constraints of producers or music companies. It’s the first of its kind globally, where musicians, lyricists, and singers are shareholders. Artists will have complete creative freedom, and no committee will oversee their work. Members will also introduce new talents, giving exposure to emerging singers, lyricists, and composers. This is where there will be complete unity in complete diversity.”
Sonu Nigam:
Sonu Nigam shared his early struggles in Mumbai and recalled feeling helpless, yet determined to make a difference. He said, ‘When I came to Mumbai in the ’90s, we always wanted to do something no one else was doing. Now, that dream will become a reality with Goongoonalo, which will play a significant role in the history of music.’
The platform is set to release an incredible array of content. Shreya Ghoshal will launch the first song under the ‘Goongoonalo Originals’ label. Upcoming highlights include Salim-Sulaiman’s music production sessions, Irshad Kamil’s lyricism lab, and a singing workshop by Arijit Singh.
Fans will be able to create items, take part in crowdfunding, and attend virtual gatherings through the “Fanverse.” There is more to Goongoonalo than just an app. The very musicians who have shaped India’s musical heritage are now bringing this cultural movement, community, and shared dream to life.