Interview with RJ Pampa

Along with other programmes, RJ Pampa regularly hosts “Jiboner Jai-gaan” on ABC Radio FM 89.2 every Saturday at 12:30pm. The programme is based on “Celebrating Life” contest. In a free wheeling interview, this correspondent had a chance to speak to the RJ on a range of issues.

How would you describe yourself?
Pampa: I am one of the voices people hear when they tune into ABC Radio. On top of being an RJ, I also work as a reporter for the radio station. I completed my Masters in Physics from Dhaka University recently.

What drove you to become an RJ?
Pampa: I have associated myself with oratory skills from an early age. I used to be a debater, recite poetry and anchor events. When ABC Radio first started under the leadership of Matiur Rahman, they were looking for RJs at Dhaka University. I signed up with the recommendation of my teacher, Rupa Chakraborty. This was back in 2005 and, along with a few other students of DU, I had my orientation on radio presentation for about six/seven months. The FM scene had not yet picked up. The station was launched properly again in 2008 under Transcom’s ownership.

I’ve been working as an RJ at ABC Radio since the re-launch. ABC Radio allowed me the space I needed to grow and form my own style since the style of existing RJs at the time did not appeal to me.

People say that the biggest drawback to being an RJ is that no one sees you and you miss out the opportunity of becoming a celebrated face. What are your views on this?
Pampa: I think that’s the best part! I enjoy being able to speak without being seen, it gives me a sense of freedom. I don’t think I would enjoy being a television host. Furthermore, being an RJ is sort of like a craze in Dhaka right now. Even students in Class VIII seem to be overexcited about it. I suppose they develop a sense of curiosity, since they only hear the voice but cannot see the person. And sometimes I myself get surprised when people look at me with awe after finding out that I am ‘the’ RJ Pampa.

Who has inspired you? Name an RJ you like.
Pampa: I don’t have any specific person as an inspiration. I am rather inspired by all that is good around me, and draw from my surrounding’s positivity. About RJs, I used to enjoy RJ Kibria’s style, who was formerly on Radio Today and then moved to ABC Radio.

What are your future plans? Want to stick to the radio?
Pampa: For the foreseeable future, yes, I want to remain an RJ. But I wish to continue my education and perhaps become an academic. I am planning to apply for admission [for MPhil degree] in the Physics Department of Dhaka University soon.

More Related:

Interview with RJ Nawsheen Nahreen Mou

Interview with Kazi Anan

ABC Radio (Bangla FM Radio) turns one

Interview with Mahmuduzzaman Babu

Sitarist Firoz Khan Interview

Hyder Husyn Interview

Interview with Fuad Al Muktadir

Interview with Channel I Shera Kontho 2009 Konal

Loko Sangeet Shondha in aid of an ailing student Shawon

Interview with Tahsan and Mithila