Breaking into Bangladesh’s underground DJ scene is rarely straightforward, especially for women, yet Rukhsara Osman, professionally known as VampBetch or “VampB,” has found her rhythm and claimed the stage with confidence. Her journey into music was instinctual rather than planned. While taking a break from her work as a chef for her bespoke catering company, Romalicious, she discovered her love for DJing during her pregnancy.
“When I was pregnant, I would sneak in practice sessions with my husband’s music and DJ console,” she recalls. “At that point, DJing wasn’t a career goal—it was something I wanted to explore. Being around amazing DJs like Psytaraa and Izhaqo, who influenced me greatly, inspired me. Izhaqo even gave me my first stage slot.”
VampB’s debut performance came at her close friend’s birthday party while eight months pregnant. Nervous yet determined, she impressed the audience and soon performed at the Cox’s Bazar show Abar Nach. “From that moment on that beautiful stage, I knew there was no turning back,” she says.
In just two and a half years, VampB has performed at a wide variety of shows, from the morning Breakfast Club sets to underground nights like Spectrum, and even appeared on the YouTube channel Beware of Falling Avocados. Her performances focus not just on music but on reading the crowd, creating a dialogue between the DJ and the audience. “It’s like a wave and a counter-wave. You give energy, and it comes back. Reading the crowd’s eyes and movements is essential,” she explains.
As one of the few women in a male-dominated industry in Bangladesh, VampB admits the path has its challenges but remains undeterred. “The first couple of years are about self-exploration and experience. Confidence in what you do is everything. If you are determined, negativity won’t affect you,” she advises aspiring female DJs.
Rukhsara Osman’s story proves that DJing is more than spinning tracks—it’s about emotional connection, careful curation, and creating a space where both music and audience flourish.