Rohini Ramnathan, popularly known as “Radio Ki Heroini,” joined Sampath Iyengar on the 77th episode of Jam With Sam as its first-ever radio jockey guest. Her vibrant journey from Mumbai’s streets to becoming a celebrated voice on Radio Nasha has been nothing short of inspiring. Through her authenticity, curiosity, and passion for storytelling, Rohini has created a legacy in radio while championing causes close to her heart.
A Mumbai Girl with Big Dreams
Born in Matunga, Mumbai, Rohini’s early life was shaped by a love for languages. Despite earning a master’s in English Literature, her destiny led her into the world of media and entertainment. Reflecting on her schooling and college years, Rohini admits that her degree was just a formality. “Everything I do today, I didn’t study for,” she quips. Her passion for connecting with people and sharing stories began during her formative years, making her a natural fit for the world of radio.
Breaking Into Radio: From Documentary Filmmaker to RJ
Rohini’s media journey started with a dream of becoming a documentary filmmaker. She produced Kahani Amsa Paniachi, a Marathi documentary addressing water scarcity in Maharashtra. Although the film received critical acclaim and support from the UN, the financial realities of filmmaking led her to seek alternative paths.
When a friend recommended radio, Rohini joined Fever 104 FM as a producer in 2006. Her dynamic personality caught the attention of her boss, who encouraged her to go on-air. Despite initial hesitation, Rohini became a co-host on the evening drive, marking the beginning of her illustrious radio career.
A Voice for the People: Radio’s Unique Power
From Fever 104 to Red FM, Rohini embraced radio as a mass medium with a personal touch. She describes it as “an underrated medium” with the power to build deep connections. “Radio reaches everyone—from the CEO to the taxi driver. If you can stay relevant to both, you’re a good RJ,” she explains.
Rohini also had a stint in Singapore with Mediacorp, where she learned to connect with a diaspora audience deeply rooted in nostalgia for India. Her adaptability and authentic approach made her a favourite among listeners, proving that vulnerability and honesty resonate across the border.
Championing LGBTQIA+ Rights and Feminism
Rohini’s work goes beyond entertainment. She is a vocal ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and has received the Kashish Rainbow Award for her contributions. Her radio segments brought marginalized voices into mainstream conversations, at a time when such topics were taboo.
Her perspective on feminism is equally refreshing. “Feminism isn’t about rich versus poor or privilege versus the needy,” she says. “It’s about dismantling power structures that allow any form of disrespect toward women.”
Nostalgia and Art: Radio Nasha’s Unique Offerings
Returning to India, Rohini joined Radio Nasha, which celebrates retro music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Through curated experiences like Nasha Premiere Nights, she brings cinema lovers together to relive iconic films in single-screen theatres. Whether it’s organizing a 30-year reunion for Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak or commissioning murals of legends like Sridevi, Rohini combines her love for cinema with her role as an RJ to create unforgettable experiences.
Personal Life and Beyond
Rohini credits her mother for her open-mindedness and curiosity, traits that define her as a storyteller. While her work often blends with her hobbies, she finds time to indulge in theatre and hosting events for causes she believes in. From hosting Shah Rukh Khan’s birthday party to acting in the play Bayan, Rohini continues to explore new creative avenues.
The Future is Bright
When asked about her future, Rohini’s response is simple: “If I could do radio for the rest of my life, I would do it without a hitch.” Her unwavering passion for the medium and her ability to adapt to changing times ensure that her journey will continue to inspire and entertain.
About Rohini Ramnathan:
Rohini Ramnathan is a celebrated radio jockey, LGBTQIA+ ally, and champion of retro cinema. Known as “Radio Ki Heroini,” she has worked with leading FM stations like Fever 104, Red FM, and Radio Nasha. A storyteller at heart, Rohini combines her love for people, languages, and entertainment to create impactful radio experiences.