There weren't many, but whatever little were, have really taught me a lot and helped me sustain so far. Breaking norms and stepping into a male dominated industry was indeed a struggle and a little challenging, but I've learnt that if you have a good conduct and are able to strike a balance between a friendly approach and being strictly professional, then everything is achievable and will be a smooth ride.
1) Tell us about your background and journey .
My journey has been an absolute roller coaster ride, but I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I started working at a very early age (about 18 years old) right after my HSC as I sensed my responsibilities of taking care of myself and my family just then. I wanted to be independent emotionally and financially and chose to give up education and work instead.
Since, I wasn't qualified enough, my only option was to get into hospitality. I flew with Jet Airways (domestic and International) for 5 long years to realize, I wasn't happy flying at all. I couldn't take orders and work under anyone. I wanted to do something of my own. But as I abruptly quit flying, I needed income as I had some fixed expenses.
Out of desperation, I chose to took up professions that I was least interested in (Retail and client servicing) which eventually turned out a whole debacle, and I again instantly got myself out of these. By now, I knew that I've been wasting my time only as I was focused to get attracted to places that were paying me well, but was I going to be happy there, is it my interest, I never gave any weightage all of this.
I decided to give myself a whole year to think, what exactly was I passionate about, what could keep my heart happy. And there it was ! Music ! I trained myself to be a DJ, and after another 18 months of struggle, here I am, completing a decade in a month and probably one of the most celebrated DJs in India
2. What are the challenges you face and how do you overcome it?
There weren't many, but whatever little were, have really taught me a lot and helped me sustain so far. Breaking norms and stepping into a male dominated industry was indeed a struggle and a little challenging, but I've learnt that if you have a good conduct and are able to strike a balance between a friendly approach and being strictly professional, then everything is achievable and will be a smooth ride.
3.What are the career opportunities available for people in this field of work ?
If you are an entertainer/ performer/ artist, then there are lots of opportunities currently. If you are a DJ, then you can get into fields like music production, be a private tutor or at an institute, event/artist programming/management, personal manager, etc. All of these can happen while you are simultaneously an artist yourself or after you have quit being one.
4. What has been your greatest accomplishment ?
There are a few. Firstly, as I was announced as the official DJ by Sony for IPL EXtraaa Innings in 2014 and had a TV presence throughout the season. Then, while I was the jury member for Zee Sa re Ga Ma Pa and again got massive exposure on TV.
Also, my single 'You're Not Worth a Sorry' that I released in Feb 2020 which I sang, produced and featured in. Not to forget, the awards and accolades.
5. Where do you see yourself in further future?
About the future, I am not sure yet as I have no plans. I'm still enjoying being a dj, but long term plans would be to have my own pet grooming and lodging/boarding as I am an ardent animal lover and I see myself totally into this.
6. What advice would you like to give to the future and aspiring youngster you wish to pursue a career in this industry ?
All the aspiring artists must know and realize where their true skill/ talent lies and must know how vast this industry is. Yes it's a pressure to prove yourself different and stand out from the lot but if you are truly passionate, you will figure out ways to do it. Also, to know their basic ground level technical knowledge, as would genuinely help you achieve your goals.
7. Who has been your role model?
I have strongly followed women like Jennifer Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, Saina Nehwal, Deepika Padukone, etc.
DJ Paroma
Instagram id : @diparoma
You tube Channel - DJ Paroma
Interviewed by Adit Koul
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