Q. Tell us something about yourself
My name is Rudrika, I'm a second-year student in Maitreyi pursuing B. Com Honours. I'm a sportsperson and a DJ too.
Q. DJ is such a unique talent. How did you manage to become a DJ at such a young age? Tell us about your journey as a DJ so far.
My brother is also a DJ. That's how I got introduced to this genre and the next thing I knew I was completely wrapped up in it. The journey has been so amazing, I've performed in Key Nightclub, M Houz, LIT, Immigrant Cafe, Darzi Cafe. Reflecting back, I've performed in every major nightclub in Delhi.
Q. How did you develop an interest in sports, especially basketball?
When I was in my 6th standard, there was a summer vacation camp organized in our school. I went there for dancing but it did not interest me at all. One day I saw some children playing basketball from my room window and it seemed interesting. So, the next day I told my mom that I want to shift to basketball. I actually started playing when I was in my 7th standard.
Q. What was your experience when you represented India internationally?
The camp was for three months, it first started in Punjab and then we shifted to Haryana. We had to run for 45 minutes to 1 hour and we were practicing morning and evening. Everything revolved around sports. After attending the camp there was the final team selection and when I heard that I got selected I was over the moon. Then we went to Japan and it was simply amazing.
Q. Having represented India in Netball in Australia and Japan, what impression did it leave on you?
The first time when I represented India in Australia, I was in my 10th standard. I was very young and clueless about how things roll and always used to ask my teachers to guide me. But the moment I saw India's flag on my jersey a sense of maturity took over and I realized the level of competition and my responsibility. That's when I learned that you have to be independent to grow and succeed, you have to get it for yourself.
Q. DJ and Sports are polar opposites. How do you strike a balance, given that you are a student too?
Initially, it was a hassle for me to manage all things at once. Particularly, when I represented India in Japan.The four-month training, and the tour clashed with my 12th board exams. So, I had to learn how to make adjustments or else it would all be for nothing.
Q. How many titles have you won in sports?
I have played 13 Nationals in Netball, including Senior National and the Federation Cup. I have also played two Internationals in Australia and Japan. Also, I have bagged the 3rd position in Delhi Olympic Games. Apart from these, I have many awards given to me individually such as Outstanding Sportswoman.
Q. How do you envision your future?
I don't have any future plans, but blessedly I have created several potential career opportunities for myself in Sports, DJ, and Management.
Q. What advice would you like to give, from your experience to the people who want to follow their passion?
You have to make an effort, there is no escaping hard work. You have to get it for yourself, there is no shortcut. You have to prioritize and manage. When you try to rise up, people will try to push you down. At that moment, believe in yourself, your talent, and keep hustling.
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