Her Story
About Shraddha
Shraddha Mohan, M.A., is a Carnatic music vocalist, educator, and performing artist with extensive experience in South Indian classical music, music education, and arts administration. She serves as Assistant Director of Carnatic Vocal and Donor Relations Manager at Silambam Houston, where she teaches Carnatic vocal music while supporting donor engagement and organizational initiatives. In addition to her musical career, she brings professional experience in brand development and marketing from her tenure as a Brand Executive at Cavinkare, combining creative leadership with strong communication and management skills.
Shraddha earned a Master of Arts in Indian Music from the University of Madras, graduating with First Rank, and also holds a Master's Degree in International Business from Monash University. A dedicated performer since 1997, she has built a distinguished career as a Carnatic vocalist, receiving the prestigious Spirit of Youth Award in 2013 in recognition of her artistic excellence. She also serves as Artistic Director of Spotlight Academy in Texas and Director of Sangeetamala Academy in Chennai, India, where she mentors aspiring musicians and promotes the continued appreciation of Carnatic music through both in-person and online instruction.
Throughout her career, Shraddha has remained committed to lifelong learning, artistic excellence, and preserving the traditions of Carnatic music while embracing innovation through interdisciplinary collaborations. She credits her success to the discipline instilled by her mother and guru, Sita Rajan, and believes that integrity, humility, authenticity, and approachability are the cornerstones of both personal and professional success. Passionate about mentoring the next generation, she encourages young women to support one another, remain dedicated to their artistic journey, and continue growing both as musicians and individuals.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shraddha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the discipline instilled in me from an early age by my mother and teacher, Sita Rajan. Through 15 to 16 years of dedicated practice, I developed the skills and perseverance required to master the classical art form. Music has also been a source of healing and strength throughout significant life transitions, including relocating to the United States, becoming a parent, and navigating family separation.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the best pieces of advice I have received is to never assume I have reached the peak of my career or take success for granted. There is always something new to learn and opportunities to grow. Every career provides a path toward discovering who you truly are, and when your work becomes something you genuinely enjoy, that is when you achieve lasting fulfillment.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to support and uplift one another, especially in a competitive industry. Hold on to your art throughout every stage of life because it becomes a constant source of motivation, purpose, and resilience. Whether balancing family, parenting, or other life changes, your passion for your craft can continue to inspire and sustain you.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is overcoming travel accessibility and visa-related barriers that can limit artistic opportunities and international collaboration. At the same time, there are exciting opportunities to innovate through fusion music and interdisciplinary collaborations, such as combining Carnatic music with Western dance and other performing arts to reach broader audiences.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I believe in maintaining integrity in everything I do and staying true to my values. I strive to remain approachable, available to others, and humble, qualities that are deeply respected within the artistic community. These principles guide both my professional work and my personal life.
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