Elegant expressions: a chat with VJ Urmi

By Elita Karim
25 September 2003, 18:00 PM
Urmi
It was in the late 90's, when Bangladesh was introduced to newer dimensions in many fields of media. Private channels began to crop up and instill the craze amongst viewers for satellite channels. These channels brought with them opportunities for the young enthusiasts of the country to show their talents in various fields. With it, there came a drastic change in the traditional concept of anchoring. Today the TV anchors, known as video jockeys or VJ's, have come out of the ancient barriers, which stood in their way to present naturally, merging with the surroundings.

One such VJ is Urmi of Channel-i, a popular channel, which is about to observe its fifth anniversary on October 1.

Urmi is popular among the viewers for her easy smiles and casual ways. An Eden College degree holder in Economics, she is currently pursuing her Masters in the same subject. 'It is tough going through daylong recordings three days a week when you also have classes to attend to,' says Urmi smiling radiantly.

When asked how she actually got into the world of media, she remarked that her mother was the one who had initially given her the idea to be a VJ. 'I really didn't know anything about it. One fine morning, seeing an ad in the papers, which said that this channel was looking for new faces and anchors, she asked me to apply for it. I did as she told me to and was soon called for an interview. After completing all necessary formalities, I was finally selected as a VJ of Channel-i.'

Her favourite past time happens to be reading. 'I buy all kinds of books from one particular store and read it over and over if I become attached to it. I have had this habit since I was very small and by now I think I have managed to build one of the largest libraries!' jokes Urmi. 'I am also fond of hanging out with my close friends, spending long lazy hours at home, watching movies and gossiping with them.'

Is she thinking of pursuing her career further and get into TV serials and modeling? 'Well, I did get many offers to model for a few designers and also for some TV serials. However, at the moment I have not really decided for any such particular field,' replies Urmi.

'It is fun being who I am, I guess,' remarks the VJ. 'In between taking care of my studies and running up and down to the studio, I take out time to be with my friends and family. I wish to complete my studies and also continue what I am doing right now.

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