RJ, poet, writer, and occasional singer, Supral Raj Joshi is a man of many talents. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in International Relations, Joshi has been rapidly gaining popularity as an RJ at Radio Kantipur. The Post’s Marissa Taylor caught up with Joshi for a quick chat. Excerpts:

How did you begin your journey as an RJ?

I did my first radio show on June 8, 2011. It was a Wednesday, and I remember I was shaking in my boots. I had done well in the interviews and auditions, but when the moment of truth arrived, it was very nerve-racking. Fast forward four years, and here I am now.

As for the interest, well, puberty happened. I went from sounding like my mother (I kid you not—when her friends called and I answered, they always mistook me for her) to having the voice that I have now. My friends at school and later in college thought I could do radio. I also used to regularly phone in on the Music Jam on Radio Kantipur and the Rhythm Brothers. They were always very encouraging as well.

What are you currently involved with?

I am currently a student of International Relations at Tribhuvan University. I also work at the Creative Department at Echo Advertising Agency. I freelance as an event host, and occasionally write and narrate documentaries. This year, I plan to add more songs to my SoundCloud.

What are the shows you are currently doing?

I am currently doing two shows—Chartbusters on Sunday at 7pm and Nocturnal on Mondays at 10pm.

Your most memorable moment as an RJ till date.

When I was doing this show on a Saturday evening with a colleague and we were getting messages on our Facebook page from literally all over the world—the UK, the US, Israel, Seychelles, Australia and so many more places—that has always been very memorable. It was probably the first time that I realised how vast radio’s reach actually was.

Any challenges you have faced?

Not necessarily. I do get hate mails sometimes, which I always have fun replying to. Apart from that, it has been a relatively smooth ride.

What’s keeping you busy at the moment?

Well, a few months ago, we started Nocturnal. We only take in messages on Whatsapp or Viber on that show. It has been interesting so far. Going live on Monday evenings has turned out to be fun.

Do you sing as well?

Very little, and only occasionally.

I mentioned SoundCloud earlier. Anyone reading this is free to follow (and download for free) my stuff on www.SoundCloud.com/Supral.

Everyone knows what a great writer/poet you are. Any plans on pursuing that further?

Honestly, I am always very afraid of identifying myself as a writer or a poet. My writing is pretty much limited to the

status updates I post on Facebook. As for the future, I hope to  incorporate my limited writing skills intomy research related to International Relations.

Who is your favourite RJ?

My colleague Laurisa. She’s subtly witty and always a pleasure to listen to.

Any inspiration/role model?

I grew up listening to the radio. It was something I thought I could do and eventually ended up pursuing. I wouldn’t say anyone in particular inspired me to do it, but my family has always been really supportive. I remember seeing my mom cry when she first heard me on the radio. It was a recorded show and I guess the fact that my parents are always so proud of my little achievements, keeps me going.

What are your future plans?

Everything has worked out well for me so far. I plan on working on another master’s degree abroad, and, perhaps, a PhD? I don’t know. We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.

A few words for aspiring RJs.

Do not waste time and money on training institutes. You hone yourself, and learn things as you go. Try not to imitate anyone and develop a distinct style. And please, for the love of God, avoid fake accents.