Rajesh Cherthala is one of the top ranking Indian flutists of the South Indian music tradition and an outstanding Western music instrumentalist. He is a well known figure in the professional music industry.He was born in Cherthala, in the district of Alappuzha, Kerala.

His parents Dasappan and Nirmala encouraged him to learn music in his childhood days. His cousin Shaji spotted and nurtured his inherent musical talent and initiated him to the basic lessons in the flute. Mr. Balram, the organizer of Cochin Class Orchestra, helped and guided him to play with live orchestra.