Bhupendra Khadka has been a radio jockey for more than 12 years now. He runs several shows on Radio Kantipur about literature and the music. His eloquence, an unflinching confidence and the ability to logically analyse the issues of the day are the characteristics that have made him a household RJ name. The Post’s Timothy Aryal caught up with the RJ and talked about his journey in the media world and other interests. Excerpts:

How did your journey as an RJ begin? What sparked your interest?

As a child, I had a penchant for speaking out my thoughts: I have always been an extrovert. I used to share my thoughts and views among people around me, be it with my family or my circle of friends. I think that’s how I developed myself as an orator.

Also, I used to take part in various programmes in my school. I later got the chance to participate in many national-level debate and speech competitions, which really helped me hone my

skills; I thus became pretty confident. And when I was doing my bachelor’s I was attracted to RJing. That’s how I got into RJing.

What are the shows you are currently doing?

I currently run six programmes weekly with Radio Kantipur; they are about literature, music and academics. I also run a show where I directly interact with the audiences, where I entertain phone calls.

What do you think is the best thing about working in radio?

Working in radio has allowed me to develop many skills. I think that’s the best thing about it. I have gotten an opportunity to learn and explore many things

of interest. But mostly, I think radio has provided me the skill to present my thoughts confidently, whether it be about people’s personal issues or about public ones.

Your most memorable moment as a RJ till date...

During the time that Nepal was witnessing the first election of the Constituent Assembly, I ran a live programme consecutively for eight days. I happen to remember those days time and again. And also, I like to think about the times I have enjoyed while presenting this show titled Sangeet Dabali, which has been on the air for more than seven years now. This show has been providing me with an opportunity to learn about the Nepali music scene and its intracacies.

Which has been your personal favourite show to host, and why?

I will name two shows. Abhibyakti is a talk show where I discuss new books that have come out in the market with their creators, and I also review the books. Then there’s Kaaljayi Geet-Sangeet. As the title implies, it is a show where I play the Nepali classics that I consider are ‘timeless’.

Any challenges that you have faced during your journey as a RJ?

I speak on air the same way I speak off it. During my early

days as an RJ, people would advise me to change my way of speaking; they used to tell me things such as the following: “You sound pretty rude, and “your voice sounds too intense”. That was a challenge, I guess. But later on, the way I spoke became my trademark as an RJ.

What are you currently involved with, besides RJing?

There are many things I have been involved with. I am currently doing my doctorate on the Nepali language. I have been writing songs for more than 14 years and I am still doing that as

well. I have been teaching in colleges for more than a decade. And recently I tried my hand at publishing books with Book-Hill Publications, which I own.

Besides RJing, what are your other hobbies?

I like to read and write. I like to travel to new places.

Soon I am coming up with a TV talk show.  

Any inspirations/role models?

Not anyone in particular. I believe in hard work. I believe in diligence. I believe in the arts.

A few words for aspiring RJs...

RJing in Nepal has now become a thriving profession. If you are interested in joining the profession, first do some research. If you are a mass communication or journalism student, the education will help you a great deal. And you have to be confident about what you do. Because once you start talking on air, you will be a figure that many people in society will look up to.