MUMBAI: From Rs. 450/hour to Atmos-ready rooms, Bay Owl Studios is rewriting the rules for indie artists across languages and genres. Founder Varun Parikh shares how the studio is becoming ground zero for India’s next-gen music movement.
India’s music scene is shifting—and at the heart of this cultural transformation is a quiet revolution in sound. As regional music in languages like Marathi, Punjabi, and Tamil gains ground across the country, one studio in Mumbai is enabling that rise, artist by artist, track by track.
Bay Owl Studios, founded by Varun Parikh, has fast become a creative hub for indie musicians looking to preserve their cultural roots while accessing world-class production. And it’s not just about gear—it’s about the growing desire to be heard, authentically.
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“Streaming services and affordable mobile data have completely transformed access,” says Varun. “But what’s really driving this shift is the combination of digital access and DIY distribution platforms, which allow regional artists to release their music globally—without the gatekeeping of major labels.”
“It Begins With the Artist’s Vision”
At Bay Owl, the technology is cutting-edge—but it always takes a backseat to the artist’s creative intent. Whether it’s the textured timbre of a Marathi folk ballad or the punchy beat of Kannada hip-hop, the studio prioritizes cultural authenticity.
“Every session begins by centering the artist’s vision,” Varun explains. “We have high-end consoles, state-of-the-art monitoring, and curated microphone textures—but the roadmap is artist-led. We make sure traditional instruments and vocal styles are recorded with precision, using both digital tools and legacy techniques.”
It’s this blend of tech and tradition that allows artists to maintain their identity, even in a high-production setting.
What Regional Artists Really Need
While talent is abundant in India’s regional music space, Varun believes the modern indie artist needs far more than a good hook.
“Artists need to think beyond their home studio. Today, success means strategic digital presence, community-building, mentorship, and understanding the business of music,” he says. “Tell your story. Ground your music in your roots. Let authenticity be the algorithm.”
He also emphasizes the importance of financial literacy.
“Treat your music like a sustainable business. Track your expenses, plan your budget, and understand your rights and royalties. Explore merch, sync licensing, intimate house gigs—don’t depend on just one revenue stream.”
To support this, Bay Owl offers an entry-level room at just Rs.450/hour, complete with pro-grade backline and monitoring. They also provide discounted block-packages and are developing gear-access partnerships to help artists create without financial strain.
“The Story Determines the Sound”
Having worked closely with artists across India’s many linguistic landscapes, Varun has seen firsthand how language and regional identity shape not just lyrics, but soundscapes.
“Regional narratives impact every part of production—from rhythm choices to how a mix is balanced. Composers often lean into traditional scales and structures. That authenticity resonates. It tells listeners: this is yours.”
The Future Is Flexible, Affordable—and Loud
With studios ranging from Rs.450 to Rs.4,500 per hour, Bay Owl has made it possible for everyone from bedroom producers to full touring bands to record at professional standards. And they’re not stopping there.
“We’re building a Dolby Atmos-ready room and working on a platform to connect artists, engineers, and collaborators digitally,” Varun reveals. “We want to break geographic limitations and keep the community connected.”
Add to that their partnership with Abbey Road Institute Mumbai, and the studio’s impact goes beyond production—it’s now a training ground for India’s future producers and engineers.
“Studios today must be agile, inclusive spaces. At Bay Owl, we’re not just recording the next big hit. We’re shaping the future of Indian music, one session at a time.”
