By now, Ajaneesh Loknath’s music has travelled far beyond Karnataka, and 2025 is shaping up to be one of the busiest years of his career. With some of the biggest projects in his hands — starting with Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1, releasing on October 2, followed by the Darshan-starrer Devil, Land Lord with Vijay Kumar, and an untitled Sudeep film — he has mastered the art of juggling multiple commitments. What was once a challenge has now become second nature.
Yet, amidst this demanding musical calendar, Ajaneesh has stepped into a new arena, film production. His debut as a producer comes with Just Married, a romantic drama from ABBS Studios, co-produced with CR Bobby, who also directs the film. Starring Shine Shetty and Ankita Amar, Just Married will be released on August 22 through Vijay Kiragandur’s VK Films. The trailer, launched recently, also revealed a cast that includes veterans like Devaraj and Achyuth Kumar, promising warmth, humour, and heartfelt moments.
Calling it a “dream realised,” Ajaneesh gives us the low-down on how this project came to be.
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To begin with, what took this music composer to production?
From the beginning, I have been shy to talk or appear on stage. The next natural step after music, for me, was to try producing. Bobby and I have worked together since 2006, and she had always expressed her desire to direct. She never got the opportunity, which was one of the reasons she turned to music. Direction is her forte; she is commanding, organised, and clear in vision. We thought about it years ago, and now it’s finally a reality.
We did a test shoot and worked out the finances. One thing I believe in — plus or minus, everything should be taken with just a pinch of salt. Music remains my priority. Bobby is taking care of production, and every person on our team is strong in their area. For the past two to three years, we’ve been ready for this moment.
With the buzz around Su From So bringing audiences back to theatres, would you say the timing of Just Married’s release is a blessing in disguise?
Definitely, it is a positive signal. Our film is perfect for families. It’s not just about marriage — there’s humour, emotion, tension, twists, and small thrilling moments. It’s more than a comedy or a family drama; it has a bit of everything to keep you hooked.
Was Just Married chosen mainly to realise Bobby’s dream, or were you equally convinced as a producer?
Bobby had developed three to four subjects, and I felt Just Married was the right start, both creatively and within budget. When I heard the narration, I thought it needed to be on screen. People carry so much burden in their minds; they go through struggles silently. This story has an underlying message, and I knew it would connect with people.
Will you also work on projects that don't involve Bobby?
Whatever the project, it will be under the ABBS Studio banner, and Bobby will be there. Because of her, I even considered production. I don’t like diverting myself from music, but since she handles production so well, I don’t have to worry.
How was it to compose music for your own project?
When I work with other directors, it’s easy to understand their thought process and be spontaneous. Here, I was involved from the story stage, and that made it more challenging. It’s like an astrologer trying to write his own story. In both cinema and personal life, I seek advice, but with this, I had to judge my own work. That was tough.
If Just Married turns into a huge success, will you embrace production more seriously?
Definitely. But, like I said, my focus will always remain on music. There’s so much still to achieve, and I aim to reach a national level with my work. That takes time and dedication. I enjoy production, but music will always be my core.
What keeps you grounded and focussed despite juggling so many things?
Divinity has been with me from my early days. It was taught to me by my grandparents. I also practise meditation. It helps, but I prefer not to speak about it too much.