Ankit Kumar Tripathy, or as he is fondly known as “The SWASHBUCKLER FROM ODRA DESA”, is a singer-songwriter and the author of three ebooks...
Tag - interview
Farmeen Rahman, known as DJ Farmeen is one of the Indian DJs who has successfully been able to motivate aspiring female DJs to try their passion in the field of music. With a degree of Journalism and Mass communication, Farmeen has served as International Cabin Crew for Qatar Airways in her 20s. She is a complete clubbing soul, a nightlife lover and possesses a great understanding of music.
The Asian Chronicle got DJ Farmeen to answer some of the questions related to her journey and life of a Female DJ in India.
Interview by Bhoomika Mohan
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin your journey as a DJ?
Since my childhood, I have a sense of emotional attachment with the beats of music. Whenever I listen to the beats, I can feel them running through my body. I’ve been lucky to realize that at a very tender age. After my schooling was complete, I started attending DJ concerts and I could feel the urge to develop songs on my own. This urge got me to join a dj academy and that was where I learned all the basics.
Luckily, within a month, I started getting gigs from different clubs in Bangalore. And that was how my career as a DJ began.
Who do you admire in the industry? Is there someone you look up to, for inspiration?
Yes, of course, I admire Martin Garrix, Hardwell and Nervo. I love listening to music. I also love the way they perform and they inspire me by how they have established themselves in the industry.
For me, internal motivation is the key. Inspiration comes from everywhere, but most of the time, it is from the audience in front of me. It is just the music and the crowd. It gives me pure joy when the entire crowd unites on my music.
Do you think gender biases exist in the industry? Or do you think the scenario is improving!
If I speak very personally, I don’t think there are any gender biases in the Industry. Anyone who has required talent gets the chance to perform. It is only about how aware you are and how smartly you grab the opportunity in front of you. In fact, it is female DJs these days who are in huge demand than the males DJs.
Do you think Indian society is becoming more accepting of female DJs? Were your parents supportive?
Yes, I am very proud to say that Indian Society is becoming accepting of female DJs. Nowadays, most of the events in clubs or even at private parties, people prefer female DJs.
As far as my parents’ reaction is concerned. I have been very lucky. I think they’re the most important people in my journey. Had they not supported me in everything that I wanted to do in my career, I wouldn’t have been here.
Do you often find yourself faced with concerns about morality? How do you deal with unfavorable reactions? Do you ignore them or encourage meaningful discussion?
Thanks to Allah, I have never faced negative feedback. I welcome critics, they help me get better at work, and I admire my followers, they help me grow. They never question morality. I believe in positivity and spreading happiness and surround myself with people who do the same.
Do you prefer to live gigs and tours, over studio recordings and album releases?
Yes, I prefer to live gigs and tours because they give me a chance to feel a direct connection with the audience. I also make remixes and release them every month. Currently, I am working on an original track which will be released pretty soon.
Is there a word of advice you would like to give to the upcoming DJs, especially females?
Believe in your dreams and work on it- This is my mantra. I follow the very basic “Never give up” approach. Life is full of surprises, welcome them. If u are really interested and dedicated to work for something, I believe no one and nothing can stop you. This industry is very welcoming. Follow your passion and work harder than yesterday. That is what I’ve got to say to the aspiring DJs.
Nisha Tandon, a bilingual poetess from Dubai has marked her name in poetry with her soulful poetry. An entrepreneur by profession, Nisha Tandon has used her life experience in a well-articulated and rhythmic tone in her poetries. Starting her poetic journey with her first poetry collection, Footprints; she has come a long way in her credentials as a poetess. Currently residing in Dubai, she has been an individual with various attributes. Apart from holding a reputed position in an HR & Training Consulting Firm, she has worked in hotels, educational institutions and corporate entities.
INTERVIEW BY NITISH RAJ
When did you start writing or how you feel that you should write down your imagination?
I would say it’s genetic. My father writes poetry and I feel his creativity has passed on to me. As a teenager when one goes through a transition phase in life, it’s very difficult to share your thoughts with anyone. I found solace in noting down my random thoughts in my diary. Just that my words were in the form of poetry.
How are you feeling after publishing your second book in a span of six months?
It is an incredible feeling. I never gathered courage until my family and wellwishers after reading my work encouraged me to get them published.The roughly drafted thoughts were already there and I just needed to compile them into a book. The progression from the first to the second was smooth and the journey was indeed an interesting experience. We better ourselves with each move.
What aspects of poetry makes it more influencing than fiction?
For me I do a lot of introspection and draw inspiration from real life experiences and the people I meet. It’s important that the readers are able to connect with the poet. Poetry being the reflection of a poet’s personality makes it stand apart from other forms of art.
What role does poetry play in influencing the thought-process of mere mortals?
Poetry is a genre that creates an aura around the most ordinary emotion. They help to portray a blend of reality and fantasy and resonate with the reader’s life. It is the bridge between our heart and words spoken from our soul.
At the time when fiction has overshadowed poetry, what initiatives are taken by modern poets in order to attract the young readers?
I always feel the essence of poetry is one’s innermost emotion captured right. Remaining true to the feelings and expressing them has always worked. They may have been overshadowed
by fiction at the moment but they shall never be lost. You will always find readers’ who still believe in the age old charm of literature written in verse. Social media has been instrumental in engaging the young readers.
At the time when English language is becoming a part and parcel of our life, how much a poetry collection in Hindi language hold it’s relevance?
Hindi is the second most spoken language in the world. It will always hold it’s fort no matter what. There will always be raving fans of poetry who appreciate the significant contributions of our language in our culture and traditions. The lyrical recital still enthralls the enthusiasts. You can’t deny the fact that emotions are better conveyed in Hindi than in English.
How do you manage time for writing with your loving child who actually need special care?
I feel finding time for something one is passionate about is not difficult. For me penning down my thoughts is like breathing.I can do it almost anytime, anywhere. It’s all about time management! And as far as writing is concerned, while taking care of my child with special needs, I draw a lot of inspiration from her. Her never give-up attitude and zest for life inspires me to pursue my dream of writing.
What would be your advice to the young budding poets?
I would advise the budding poets to follow their heart while writing. Express yourself in words you believe in , they have an instant connect with the reader. Not everyone is blessed with the thought-process required for writing , especially poetry. So one must exploit this talent to the optimum.
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