Mumbai: India’s no 1 female DJ, DJ Rink, who has been ruling the decks for over 20 years, has done more than 2,400 shows across the globe. She has established herself in a field that has traditionally been male-dominated. On the occasion of Diwali, DJ Rink opens up about how the festival has evolved in meaning for her, balancing work with celebrations and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Talking about how her understanding of Diwali has changed over the years, she says, “Yes, the meaning has definitely changed with time. When I was younger, it was simply about the lights, sweets and celebrations. As I grew older, especially while building my career in a male-dominated industry, I started looking at darkness differently. For me, it began to represent self-doubt, while light became a symbol of the courage to keep going despite challenges. Today, it means staying true to who I am.”
Sharing her plans for the festival, DJ Rink says, “My celebrations are usually simple and close to home. I like having a Lakshmi puja, lighting diyas, making rangoli, enjoying good food and spending time with my family and loved ones. Since we have shows quite often during this period, professional commitments sometimes take over the calendar. However, I always make sure to begin the day with a quiet moment for myself.”
For someone whose work often keeps her busy during the festive season, balancing professional commitments and personal celebrations requires planning. She explains, “The festive season is my busiest time, so I plan everything in advance. I make sure I protect the important moments, like the puja and dinner with my family, and then give my complete energy to the stage. When the music is playing and a crowd is celebrating, I feel that I am also becoming a part of their Diwali. That feeling is special.”
Interestingly, some of her most memorable Diwali moments have come from being at work rather than celebrating at home. Recalling those experiences, she says, “My Diwali becomes memorable when I am at work. Seeing a packed dance floor, strangers hugging each other at midnight and witnessing people enjoying their celebrations together is a beautiful feeling. Being a part of someone’s happiness through music is something that stays with me.”
Concluding with a message for her fans, DJ Rink shares, “Be your own light. Don’t wait for the right time, the right permission or the perfect conditions to do what you want. Keep showing up, keep creating and keep lifting the people around you. Light a diya for yourself and let it remind you that you have the power to do that every single day of the year.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=RtToJsBhYBatUrym&v=mOuYNSdhjHA&feature=youtu.be
