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Journalism of Courage
City-based Gunjan Utreja was always clear about one thing he always wanted to entertain people. As he puts it,it was his love and his calling. So,instead of heading for the MBA dream to IIM Lucknow (which he cleared) like his contemporaries,the popular anchor chose the Department of Mass Communication at Panjab University,after which he joined the Universitys Department of Theatre some years ago. Throughout,he tested waters by hosting stage shows,and corporate get-togethers. These stints eventually proved to be his training ground. I always wanted to be a television host, admits Utreja,who was largely influenced by the likes of Roshan Abbas and Javed Jaffrey. The move to Mumbai was well-planned. This July,its been exactly three years here, says the 28-year-old,who is known for holding the audiences attention with his wit and humour.
Having hosted more than 1,000 events across the world,Utreja has also done television commercials,theatre,voice overs,and recently played Rohit the parallel lead character on Sonys show,Chhajje Chhajje Ka Pyaar. At present,he is anchoring a weekend reality show,Aamna Saamna on Colors.
I am a part of Launchcast,where an artist will be given a chance to launch his/her debut album,and a chat show wherein well be interviewing singers and musicians, informs Utreja. To be streamed online first,it will make its way on television soon,hopes Utreja. There is no course to be a great actor or anchor or reporter or even a singer. One just has to be aware and develop the mind and personality accordingly, he says. As a rule for himself,Utreja has made reading a habit. Working on his appearance,networking with the right people in the business,perfecting that spontaneity of a host,penning his own scripts,avoiding stereotypical caricatures and mindless mimicry to practising catch phrases from different languages and understanding diverse cultures Utreja seems to be working hard. The problem in Mumbai is finding the right people for a job. When I landed,there wasnt really any space for a specialised anchor. In fact,there still isnt. There are hardly four to five names to boast of when it comes to hosting or anchoring in India, he rues.
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