FOR Atishwar Chand radio has always fascinated him.
A big dream he harboured growing up in Ranibulu, Labasa.
Atishwar was a student at Labasa College, and in 2015, he would often do Facebook live, hitting good music and engaging audiences he had built on.
As a straight-A student, his parents believed in education for they said would set him up for a better life ahead and give him independence.
“I owe my radio interest to my mum, she wanted to be an announcer but after marriage, she shelved her dreams to take care of the family.”
“I guess I followed suit, I had this love for radio, I would break free from school work, attend to a few house chores and go online to be just me, I was living it.”
While blowing up airtime from a room, with an old computer, and a microphone he was only getting noticed.
S1 Dhamaka break
An online Vancouver, Canada radio station reached out and, was that the rise of the radio phenom to North American audience.
The ‘diamond in the rough’, was beginning make to waves, every show garnering listeners in the thousands.
Atishwar continued to built a craft, that was more polished by the program and engaging audiences who remained connected.
“I was my own creation, my style and identity, copying other sounds and styles wasn’t my thing, I brought my personality to the job,” he said.
He relocated to Suva in 2017, to pursue further studies at the University of the South Pacific (USP), all while doing his scheduled ‘Friday Night Hungama and Saturday Night Party Show.
He has since graduated with a Bachelor of Software Engineering degree.
Atishwar said far the most memorable experience which he will never forget is going live from Ranibulu, Labasa on what was an old 2000s computer with free Virtual DJ software and of course, the computer mic hung to a T-square ruler to hold the mic firm for voice control.
“It’s amazing how the technology has evolved since then”.
Atishwar had built a repertoire and after a good 2 years, (2015-2017), he moved on, leaving an indelible mark with the S1 network.
Radio Navatrang
Atishwar joined Radio Navatrang in 2017 and hasn’t looked back.
“A 2-week short training, my first show was Friday Night Show, and I still feel my hands shaking to turn the mic on and say my first word. I was so scared at that moment, all I did was close my eyes, take Mum and Dad’s and Maa Durga’s names and here I am today.”
Atishwar adds one of the best things Navtarang has gained from him is the technological advancement to which the listeners are a testament.
“From the first time I sat behind the mic to today, every moment has been a thrilling adventure.”
“Incredible 8-years of laughter, love, late-night scripts, early-morning shows, endless music, and unforgettable connections. It’s been a journey of passion, growth, and absolute magic.”
For Atishwar Navtarang is more than just a workplace, it’s his second home, playground if you will and a stage.
“It’s where I found my niche, met the most incredible people, and created memories that will last a lifetime.
“A huge shoutout to my amazing colleagues, and my rock-solid support system (mum and dad) always in my heart.”
Atishwar has become an integral member of the Navatrang family with a pledge that best years lay before his audience.
Father’s advice, life without him
The ‘hira’, (diamond) his father so proudly named him, had a life’s message.
“I have no problem with him going up and rising, what I will have a problem with is when he goes down and remains down.”
Atishwar said he hasn’t missed a heartbeat a day in his life remembering his father’s words, who passed away in 2021.
“What hurts the most is that my father couldn’t be around to see me where I’m at and the fact we couldn’t enjoy life together.
“And it’s all looking up, moving forward,” said Atishwar.
