Ranjeet Carvalho shares unique journey of faith, work, music
GLOBAL GOENKARS IN FOCUS
MELBOURNE
When a former seminarian decided to shift his vocation to banking and then transition to singing and songwriting, it was an unusual journey of faith, work, and music.
For Ranjeet Carvalho, his mission was clear: to make the most of the gifts life has given him.
“The seminary shaped me in many ways, banking became my professional path, and music has always been quietly present throughout. Over time those experiences have come together quite naturally,” said Ranjeet.
“The evolution from this rather unique journey – from being a seminarian to a banker and now a musician – may look unusual from the outside, but for me it’s simply been a journey of discovering different parts of myself.”
Hailing from Navelim, Ranjeet studied at the Perpetual Succour Convent High School, Navelim.
“Music was always part of life in Goa. My mum encouraged all of us siblings to learn music when we were young. I was quite shy growing up, but the school choir helped me come out of my shell,” recalled Ranjeet.
“Later, music became something I shared with friends. I remember writing songs in the fields in Goa just for fun. Those moments were simple, but probably planted the seeds for what I do now.”
Ranjeet sang in choirs, participated in singing competitions during college, and performed with a Goan band ‘Muzik Mania’ for over 10 years. He also played hotel gigs and church music.
LIFE IN SEMINARY
Ranjeet then decided to join the seminary of the Religious Congregation of Holy Cross. As a seminarian, Ranjeet was posted in Mumbai, the northeast, Pune, Bangalore, and Tamil Nadu.
“The seminary was a very formative period in my life. It gave me space for reflection, discipline, and a deeper understanding of faith and purpose. Eventually, I realised my path might be different, but the values I learned there still guide me today. It was also where I learned to play the guitar, which became an important part of my musical journey,” said Ranjeet.
“Even if my songs are not always directly about faith, that perspective often finds its way into my lyrics.”
MOVING TO SWITZERLAND
Ranjeet then moved to Switzerland to explore new professional challenges.
“I wanted to grow in my career but also to provide myself creativity and a new space to develop. Living in Switzerland has been a very enriching experience,” said Ranjeet.
Having built a career in banking, both in Goa and in Switzerland, Ranjeet explained the cultural and professional differences he experienced.
“The work culture in Switzerland is very structured, precise and punctual. In Goa, things are professional as well, but the pace and interaction can feel more relaxed and personal. Experiencing both has helped me appreciate different ways of working and thinking,” said Ranjeet.
“I feel fortunate to experience both Goa and Switzerland. Goa gives me grounding – it’s home, my base, the place that shaped who I am. Switzerland inspires me deeply with its beauty and calm landscapes. Being here gives me a sense of creative freedom. Many songs I’ve written recently capture these emotions and the beauty of these places in ways hard to describe,” explained Ranjeet.
“Living abroad makes you appreciate your roots even more. Goa’s culture and music stay with you wherever you go.”
Ranjeet said while most of his day is dedicated to his work in banking, music usually happens in the evenings or on weekends, writing, composing, or working on ideas for new songs.
FROM COVERS TO CREATIVITY
For many years, Ranjeet would perform covers at events but eventually felt the urge to start creating and sharing his own music.
His style is fairly simple – acoustic-driven, melodic, and focused on telling honest stories.
“Most of my songs come from personal experiences and everyday observations. I’ve always enjoyed writing, so turning thoughts and moments from life into lyrics feels quite natural. I also draw inspiration from the simple things I enjoy doing – cycling, gardening, travelling, grilling with friends, and even making cocktails and spending time outdoors. These experiences often find their way into my songs in different ways,” explained Ranjeet.
Ranjeet said his latest song, ‘The world will follow you’, carries a strong message.
“The song is about believing in your own path. Often we hesitate or wait for validation before taking a step forward. The message behind the track is simple – when you truly believe in what you’re doing and stay committed to it, things begin to align,” he said.
ON FUTURE PLANS
Having written over a hundred songs over the years, Ranjeet said his focus is now to produce and share them.
“I would also like to collaborate more – especially with churches, schools and colleges. A lot of my music is meant to connect with young people, encourage them and hopefully inspire them in some way,” said Ranjeet.”
“Live performances are definitely something I hope to do more of as well, and I would love to begin that journey in Goa. I’m also open to writing songs for other artistes. Sometimes, a song may suit another voice better, and I would be happy to see those songs take life through other singers.”
“For me, the goal is simply to let music reach people and make a positive difference.”
Ranjeet admits that he hopes to transition fully into music someday.
“In many ways, that journey has already begun. Today, I live and breathe music. Writing and composing songs is where I feel most alive. I want to keep pursuing this dream and use music to make a positive difference in the world.”
MESSAGE FOR AUDIENCE
Asked for a message he hopes listeners take away from his songs, Ranjeet said, "If my music can encourage someone to believe in themselves or take a step towards their dreams, that would mean a lot.”
“I would also advise youth not to ignore their passion just because their career takes another direction. Sometimes, you can grow both side by side. If you keep nurturing what you love, it will eventually find its place.”
