Old is gold: DJ Vishal still spinning the tracks after four decades
Music remains life’s purest joy.
Old School Dj Vishal Ramash performing at Kingsmead during the IPL Cricket Tournament when Bollywood star Preity Zinta danced in his DJ booth.
Image: Supplied
For over four decades, DJ Vishal has been the heartbeat of Durban's bhangra and Bollywood party scene.
From humble beginnings as a law student with a passion for music to spinning tracks for Bollywood stars, this pioneering DJ turned his dreams into a lifelong calling that continues to bring joy to generations of South Africans.
What began as a student hobby in the early 1980s at the University of Natal quickly turned into a lifelong calling.
While studying law at Howard College, Vishal Ramash, 56, of La Mercy, would find himself behind the decks at the Dome and the Student Union - a young man already discovering the power of music to connect people.
“I always had a passion and love for music, all genres. Even at school I dreamt of owning my own disco. My late dad used to tell me, ‘we make money to be happy - if you’re not happy making it, then what’s the point?’” It was this advice that became the compass of his life. Law took a back seat, and the music took over.
Vishal became one of the first bhangra DJs at the legendary Stringfellas nightclub, later headlining H2O Bhangra on the Point Waterfront and hosting the prestigious Rivets Bhangra for a decade.
From there, DJ Vishal became a household name the province.
DJ Vishal DJ for over 40 years in Durban's Bhangra & Bolllywood party scene
Image: Supplied
His proudest moment? Performing at the Kingsmead stadium during the IPL Cricket Tournament when Bollywood star Preity Zinta danced in his DJ booth. “She came up, gave me a hug, and asked me to play her favourite song. I even managed to take a picture!” he laughed.
Yet, for Vishal, it is not the glamour that matters most. “After a gig, when someone - especially an elderly person - comes up to thank you and bless you, that’s priceless. No amount of money can buy that.”
Vishal continues to perform at private functions and with the Masti brand. Still, he’s not shy about sharing his peeves. “Every DJ now wants to be a Bollywood DJ. Find your happy place — play what you love and know. Don’t copy. Be yourself,” he said.
For Vishal, music remains life’s purest joy. “Without music, my heart won’t be complete. It’s food for the soul - the body’s happy meal.”
And as long as there’s a crowd ready to dance, DJ Vishal will keep the beat alive.