Viral Joshi: Balancing the World of Matchmaking and Medicine

In the ever-evolving world of modern relationships and reality television, few personalities strike a balance between pop culture and professionalism as seamlessly as Viral Joshi. Gaining global attention through Netflix’s hit show Indian Matchmaking, Viral has managed to maintain a grounded presence in the high-stakes pharmaceutical industry while exploring the emotional complexities of finding love on-screen. In this exclusive interview with TINDS, the multi-talented Viral Joshi reflects on her Southern roots, her clinical research career, and the power of inner fulfillment.

TINDS: Tell us a little bit about your childhood.

Viral: I was born and raised in Durham, North Carolina. I lived there my whole life until I recently moved to New York. Durham was a great place to grow up—close to the Blue Ridge Mountains, full of family, and with all four seasons. That sense of community shaped who I am.

TINDS: What three words describe you the best?

Viral Joshi: Determined, a little skeptical, and practical.

TINDS: Tell us a little about the show Indian Matchmaking.

Viral Joshi: I was 29, and, as it goes in Indian culture, that’s when the marriage questions start. I googled “matchmaking near me” and found an application to be on the show. It felt like a leap, but I had nothing to lose. After the interview process, I was selected—and everything you saw on TV really happened.

TINDS: How exactly does the show work for participants like you?

Viral Joshi: You meet Sima Aunty and go over what you’re looking for. Based on your feedback from each date, she refines your matches. She’s involved at first, then steps back once things progress. It’s structured but also organic.

TINDS: Are you still working with medicine?

Viral Joshi: Yes, I work in clinical trials. Right now, I’m focusing on a rare respiratory disease. The work is intense but rewarding—especially knowing that the drugs we work on today might help patients 5 to 7 years from now.

TINDS: Tell us about your radio show.

Viral Joshi: My show is called Building Inward on Rukus Avenue Radio. It emphasizes internal growth. If you’re not fulfilled within yourself, you can’t build a strong relationship. The show guides listeners to reflect, grow, and approach relationships with more awareness.

TINDS: Has the show inspired your journey of self-growth?

Viral Joshi: Absolutely. I’ve always been a non-fiction book lover, especially on self-help topics. But the experience on Indian Matchmaking made me confront patterns in myself and dig deeper. It definitely accelerated my emotional maturity.

TINDS: Do you see a future in media?

Viral Joshi: I think I can do both. My clinical job gives me financial security, which is essential. But the media work feeds my creativity. I’m not a singer or artist, but I can express myself creatively through conversations and content. I’m keeping my options open.

TINDS: What’s been the biggest challenge in your journey so far?

Viral Joshi: I used to think life needed to be figured out by 22. I had a plan—med school, marriage, kids—but nothing went as expected. And thank goodness for that. Letting go of rigid timelines gave me peace and freedom. Breaking the mold is the best decision I made.

TINDS: What would you advise those new to dating?

Viral Joshi: Keep an open mind. I used to only want to date Gujarati guys, but now I’m dating someone South Indian, and it’s going great. Be patient, and don’t let rejection weigh you down. It only takes one match.

TINDS: What role has reading played in your personal growth?

Viral Joshi: A huge one. Books have been my mirror and compass. Whether it’s Brené Brown or Jay Shetty, reading helped me identify what fulfillment really means—and how to chase it.

TINDS: How do you manage two completely different career paths?

Viral Joshi: It’s about balance. Clinical research uses my logical mind, and the media lets me express myself creatively. As long as I don’t jeopardize my financial independence, I’m free to explore both. It’s about having multiple income streams and creative outlets.

TINDS: What have you learned from mismatched relationships?

Viral Joshi: They’re teachers. Every mismatch teaches you about your dealbreakers, values, and emotional needs. The show made me realize I wasn’t as ready as I thought, and that’s okay. Growth isn’t linear.

TINDS: What do you value most in a partner now?

Viral Joshi: Emotional awareness and communication. I need someone who’s done the work on themselves. Love isn’t just chemistry—it’s emotional compatibility and mutual respect.

TINDS: Where can people follow your journey?

Viral Joshi: I’m on Instagram and also collaborate with Mukta Official. For content on self-love and dating, stay tuned on my radio show.

Viral Joshi’s story is one of graceful duality—balancing the logic of science with the vulnerability of love. From the labs of clinical trials to the global spotlight of Indian Matchmaking, she proves that ambition and introspection aren’t mutually exclusive. Whether she’s helping to shape future medicine or guiding listeners through emotional clarity, Viral reminds us that true fulfillment begins inward—and grows outward. Follow her inspiring journey as she continues to redefine what it means to be a modern South Asian woman.

Find Viral Joshi: Instagram: Viral Joshi Listen on Rukus Avenue Radio: rukusavenueradio.com