From nostalgic melodies to record-breaking concerts, Hyderabad Talkies has been crafting experiences that go beyond entertainment. We sat down with Sainath Goud Malkapuram, the visionary founder behind the brand, to understand the philosophy, purpose, and passion that drive their mission to redefine South India’s live music culture.
Q: Hyderabad Talkies has hosted some of India’s most iconic live concerts, from DJ Snake and A.R. Rahman to Ilaiyaraaja, Shreya Ghoshal, and MM Keeravani. How do you reflect on this journey of curating musical milestones year after year?
With more than a decade of experience in delivering world-class entertainment, our journey includes hosting some of India’s most iconic events. A.R. Rahman’s first seated concert, Shreya Ghoshal’s largest global performance, Ilaiyaraaja Sir’s grandest tribute show, and we launched Naatour MMK Live, a global tour for Oscar-winner MM Keeravaani
We’ve also made our mark globally with record-breaking events, such as the RISE UP Lantern Festival, which earned a place in the Guinness World Records.
In the past, we’ve collaborated with leading names like Sunburn and hosted global sensations including DJ Snake and Nucleya and curated and produced Arijit Singh and Sid Sriram before 2020. Notably, we are the only production house to have brought both Oscar-winning A.R. Rahman & M M Keeravaani to Hyderabad.
Now, we’re gearing up for our second consecutive A.R. Rahman concert on November 8, 2025.
Q: Hyderabad Talkies is not just another concert organizer. It’s become an emotion for many. How did this journey begin?
It began with a simple vision: to create soulful experiences. Hyderabad Talkies emerged as a synonym of Mareechi Media Works, the same team behind the Guinness World Record-winning Rise Up sky lantern festival. That event was about unity, hope, and storytelling, and we’ve carried that spirit forward. Live music became a natural extension of that mission. We never wanted concerts to be just about sound; we wanted them to be meaningful celebrations that bring people together across generations.
Q: Your events strike a rare balance between scale and sentiment. What’s your secret?
Sainath:
We start by respecting the art and the artist. When we hosted A.R. Rahman in 2017, we introduced South India’s first seated concert, making the experience accessible to audiences of all ages. In 2023, Ilaiyaraaja Live wasn’t just a concert; it was a tribute to his legacy.
When Shreya Ghoshal returned for her second concert with us, we scaled up the event despite challenges from rain during the first concert. We strategically planned venue choice and production, turning her return into the biggest concert of her career – a heartfelt gesture from us to her.
Now, after an eight-year wait, A.R. Rahman is returning to Hyderabad – and we’re honoured to host our second consecutive concert with him. For us, concerts are never just musical nights; they’re emotional journeys to deliver a customer experience.
I would also like to thank all the government bodies for their unwavering support throughout our journey, right from our very first event in 2013 to this day. And a special thanks to my partners Deepthi, Anju Sridhar, Manoj, Vinay, and Nagraj for standing strong with me through every milestone.
Q: Your events strike a rare balance between scale and sentiment. What’s your secret? Sainath:
We start by respecting the art and the artist. When we hosted A.R. Rahman in 2017, we introduced South India’s first seated concert, making the experience accessible to audiences of all ages. In 2023, Ilaiyaraaja Live wasn’t just a concert; it was a tribute to his legacy.
When Shreya Ghoshal returned for her second concert with us, we scaled up the event despite challenges from rain during the first concert. We strategically planned venue choice and production, turning her return into the biggest concert of her career – a heartfelt gesture from us to her.
Now, after an eight-year wait, A.R. Rahman is returning to Hyderabad – and we’re honoured to host our second consecutive concert with him. For us, concerts are never just musical nights; they’re emotional journeys to deliver a customer experience.
Q: What’s next for Hyderabad Talkies? Any big dreams you’re chasing? Sainath:
Absolutely. We’re dreaming bigger – not just in size, but in impact. Our upcoming A.R. Rahman show at Ramoji Film City will be a landmark event. Beyond concerts, we’re developing multiple IPs across music festivals, weddings, OTT content, sports, cinema, and high-end event services.
Keeravaani Garu’s global tour will fully launch by 2025. With projects already lined up through 2027, we’re focused on building a national and global legacy – one concert, one experience at a time.
As Hyderabad Talkies continues to script moments that move hearts and break barriers, one thing is clear—their symphony of soulful storytelling has only just begun.
