Weekend Exclusive | Life has been exhilarating, and at super pace: Red FM's RJ Mantra

He tells Adgully that life has indeed been a roller-coaster ride for him. Talking about how he began his journey, he says, "From a 5 star hotel Bell Boy to being the youngest front office manager; from a small town RJ, to the big city Jock; from school plays to international theatre; from a television anchor/VJ to a movie actor - life has been exhilarating, and at super pace."

So for the paced life that he has lived, was becoming an RJ ever an option?

Mantra smilingly says, "I am a performer. Be it Radio, Television, Movies, Theater, Voice Overs, or live events - I don't differentiate between the mediums. For me life is a stage!"

While it is quite natural to have role models while one is growing up, Mantra begs to differ. He says, "According to me having role models restricts oneself in some way. Probably that's the reason why I don't have any role models."

For a true performer that he is, every medium was an amazing experience for him he says. However he adds that being known for the power of one's voice is a great feeling in itself. "All the great leaders, masters and reformers of the world are nothing but great orators. What is an idea, if not conveyed?" he asks.

Talking about the pitfalls of not utilising radio effectively, Mantra says, "I feel there is a dearth of radio professionals. There is no dedicated school churning out programmers. As a trend, people are using radio as a stepping stone to TV/films. Radio has tremendous untapped energy which can change lives."

So how does it feel when he is a role model for aspiring RJs?

He humbly says, "I hope they excel where I haven't."

Talking about his latest TV stint on Comedy Circus ka Naya Daur, Mantra says, "Stand-up comedy is not new to me. As an actor I am hoping to play diff characters on Comedy Circus, which is the prime reason why I joined the show."

So while he lives his life with no regret and takes on one day at a time, as a sign off message he says, "Live life King size. You are your own Guru." | By Prabha Hegde [prabha(at)adgully.com]