For regular viewers of Call Kantipur, a live show that airs on Kantipur Television every day, Riju Shrestha needs no introduction. In the short time that she has been on air, she has already become a household name. Prior to establishing herself as a VJ, Shrestha was a model and an actress. The Post’s Marissa Taylor caught up with the effervescent VJ and talked about her journey and interests. Excerpts:

How did your journey as a VJ start? We’ve heard that you actually auditioned to be a news anchor but then got selected for Call Kantipur; is that the story?

I always wanted to be on television. I did my bachelors in media studies, and it was only I among my friends who had a craving to work in the television industry. But I had no idea that my job would be the popular Kantipur, since I had zero experience. Right after graduation, I participated in Miss Nepal 2013. Then after a short break, I started my independent projects, travelling, learning and modeling as well.

One day a friend of mine suggested that I drop my bio-data at Kantipur; KTV was looking for few fresh faces in the news department. I gave it a try, thinking I would benefit from giving it a shot, since it’s all about learning and dedication. That’s how, all of it started. And the next day I got a call and they informed me that my predecessor, Suraj Singh Thakuri, wanted to interview me. I met him, the interview went well and he asked me to join the production. What more would you want when someone wants to make you a part of something really important to them? In our initial meetings, I noticed that he was listening to me. I am very thankful to him that he listened and believed in me.  I was pretty scared of going live initially, so I did some recorded shows at first. Suraj offered me two musical shows and then after a few weeks, I was ready to go live!

Call Kantipur is one of the most popular TV shows in the country. How does it feel to be in the limelight? How do you handle the pressure?

I am currently doing three shows. Music Summit, Music Galaxy and Call Kantipur. It feels great but sometimes, yes, since Call Kantipur is an everyday show, it is not an easy job. I guess we are doing a pretty good job of it—me, Biraj and Akesha. I miss the set even when I am away for only a day. When you are watching the show from home, it’s like, “Okay! Why am I not there today?” But the best thing is when you her people whispering about us: “Oh! They are the Call Kantipur sisters.”

I remember you telling me sometime back that you are very shy. Yet you are steadily gaining popularity through your programme. How easy is it for you to do a live show?

In a way, I am shy, but only when I need to be. I don’t know what happens to me when the cameras are on in front of me. When I am around people I am comfortable with, I become very talkative. I love that in me. And it just happens. I don’t mind doing things that I love to do and even if it takes, like, forever.

But I still avoid parties and crowds outside of work-related events. I still don’t understand why, but I just love spending more time socialising with a close circle of friends.

What about the movies front? Is there any new movie coming up after Stupid Mann?

Movies! Movies! I love them. Stupid Mann was based on a quick decision, and I had no idea I would be approached for it. I was interested but did not think that I would become an actress one day. Stupid Mann just happened to me. And many offers followed, but I was so happy doing television shows. Or you can say I was still in a dilemma as to what movies would offer me. Once you are dedicated to television, you don’t realise how time flies. But yes, Thuli offered me a supporting role opposite Jiwan Luitel; I enjoyed working for it too. But that doesn’t mean I’ll plunge into another project just yet.

You started your journey as a successful model, and you have appeared in many fashion shows. Are you done with modelling now?

I am still passionate about working as a ramp model. Seriously, I love it. But then, the bitter truth is life offers me opportunities not one at a time but all at the same time. And that’s when I have to give up something. But things come my way, I just grab it. Things change. I can see new spirits and beautiful people with great bodies in the modeling industry.

So, what’s next for Riju Shrestha?

Next for Riju Shrestha is “tomorrow”. Each day, I get some new ideas. Sometimes, it’s hard for me to find the muse. While sometimes, I am highly motivated. But anyways, the energy never dies in me. I am doing a master’s and so I am busy with that too. I seriously have no idea what I’ll do next, but one thing is sure: the new day always finds a new, spirited Riju.

Whom do you consider your inspiration?

I am highly inspired by my mom when it comes to handling family matters. I am highly inspired by my grandmother when it comes to meditating and embracing patience. And I also get inspiration from my intelligent friends.

Who are your favourite VJs?

Not anyone in particular.

But I love watching Ellen and her show.

You mantra in life…

Life offers you all kind of things, but you have to know what to choose and what not to. It’s simple!