With years of jet-setting behind him, completing multiple passports, and countless performances in diverse destinations, Sreerama Chandra, in an exclusive chat with The Pioneer, shares how travel fuels his creativity, offers moments of solace and connects him to cultures and experiences that leave a lasting imprint
Travel is a celebration of freedom, a gateway to new perspectives and a constant reminder that the world is filled with endless stories waiting to be explored. For Sreerama Chandra, travel is not just a part of his career—it’s a way of life. As a celebrated singer who has performed across the globe, he has spent countless hours in airports, on flights and in far-off destinations, weaving unforgettable memories along the way.
Sreerama Chandra, celebrated singer and performer, has been a globetrotter for much of his career. In an exclusive interview with The Pioneer, the artist opened up about his extensive travel experiences, the joys of performing and the destinations that remain on his bucket list.
“For me, travelling is second nature,” Sreerama shared. “Half of my life, I’ve spent on airplanes. From about 2010 to 2024, I’ve completed three passports, and my fourth is about to be filled up in just a couple of months.” He credits his packed performance schedule for this impressive feat, as his career often takes him across continents.
Speaking about his recent trip to Dubai, the Subhanallah singer recalled it as a mix of work and leisure. “I had a show in Dubai, but I stayed back for a few days to explore. I indulged in some shopping, visited different restaurants and even had some peaceful moments by the beach enjoying Arabic cuisine,” he said. Reflecting on his previous trips, he shared highlights like skydiving over the iconic Palm Jumeirah and taking his father along for a thrilling desert safari. “Dubai is such a fascinating place—it’s just a few hours away, yet it feels like an entirely different world with unique rules, geography, and culture,” he noted.
While the O Rendu Prema singer cherishes his international trips, he remains deeply connected to his roots. “India is unparalleled. No matter where I travel, there’s a feeling of belonging here that no other place can offer. You don’t need a visa or passport to explore its beauty, and every corner of the country feels like home,” he said passionately.
Traveling for work comes with its challenges. Recalling a harrowing experience in the United States, he said, “A promoter had paid me only half the amount for a show and promised the rest before the performance. However, as the time approached, he refused to pay, leaving me in a tough spot. Being in a foreign country, it was daunting. I had to escalate the matter to officials before the payment was made.” Such incidents have made him cautious about working with unfamiliar teams abroad. “Exploitation of artists is something I’m wary of, especially when traveling to new places,” he admitted.
For the Sarphira artist, performing is more than just a job—it’s about connecting with audiences who truly value his work. “I love singing for people who recognise and appreciate me. There’s a certain magic in performing for an audience that has been waiting for you, especially in college or corporate shows where the energy is unmatched,” he said. He revealed that he prefers not to perform in settings where there’s a lack of connection, such as generic wedding gigs. “I only take up weddings where the clients specifically want me and reach out to me. Respect and mutual appreciation are very important to me as an artist,” he explained.
Despite his extensive travels, there are still places Sreerama dreams of exploring. “Paris and parts of Europe remain on my bucket list. I’ve also never been to South America, which is a region I’m eager to explore,” he said. “Closer to home,” he expressed an interest in exploring India’s northern terrains. “I’ve been hearing a lot about places like Manali and Uttarakhand. I’ve never experienced snowfall and it’s something I’d love to do.”
When asked about his downtime, he confessed that he’s a homebody at heart. “When I’m not travelling or working, I love staying at home—whether it’s in Hyderabad or Mumbai. It’s the perfect time to relax, watch web series, or catch up with friends over a good meal,” he said.
For him, travel is both a necessity and a joy, offering him the opportunity to experience different cultures and connect with fans across the globe. Whether it’s performing in front of thousands or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the beach, every trip leaves a lasting memory. As he looks ahead, Sreerama remains ready to pack his bags and explore new horizons while staying grounded in his love for home.
