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BBC Asian Network - news archive

This is an archive of news about BBC Asian Network. Some links may no longer work, due to the transient nature of the internet.

RAJAR: Digital radio listening continues to grow
From Biz Asia. Posted May 1 2008, 4.48pm
Figures released by RAJAR today reveal that digital radio listening continues to grow. However, the radio audience measuring body has reported that 80% of digital listening is to stations already available on analogue. Nearly a third of the population - 31.4% - now listen to digital radio at least once a week, with digital audio broadcasting (DAB) radio accounting for the lion's share of listening. Only 21.4% of listening is to digital-only stations such as Asian FX, ZEE Radio, BBC 6Music and BBC 7. There was also an increase in DAB set ownership with 27.3% of adults claiming to own a DAB receiver. This is a 40% increase year on year (19.5% in Q1, 2007) and a rise on Quarter 4, 2007 of 22%. Radio listening via a digital platform continues to grow steadily. Data collected for quarter ending March 2008 reveals that 17.8% of all radio listening is now via a digital platform, of which: -10.8% is via DAB -3.2% is via DTV and -2.1% is via the Internet Listening via mobile phone was also up, from 8% at the end of last year to 11.6% in the first quarter of 2008. Updated: 17:30 Related link: RAJAR:Results: Asian Network topples Sunrise (more)

RAJAR:Results: Asian Network topples Sunrise
From Biz Asia. Posted May 1 2008, 8.53am
The latest round of RAJAR results has confirmed the BBC Asian Network as the new leader in the UK Asian radio market, toppling Sunrise Radio from the coveted position. (more)

Weekend changes on Asian Net
From Radio Today. Posted April 16 2008, 6.35am
BBC Asian Network has announced a number of weekend schedule changes including a Saturday request show and extra early morning religious music. (more)

Schedule rejig for BBC Asian Network under new controller
From Media Guardian. Posted April 16 2008, 6.21am
BBC Asian Network has unveiled a new weekend schedule as part of the first changes introduced to the digital radio station by controller Andy Parfitt. By John Plunkett (more)

BBC Asian Network revamps weekends
From Biz Asia. Posted April 15 2008, 10.15pm
The BBC Asian Network has unveiled a slew of weekend schedule changes, taking place from Saturday 17th May. (more)

Radio programme looks at history of Asians in police force
From Biz Asia. Posted March 11 2008, 9.55pm
A programme on BBC Radio Scotland will chart the history of Asian and BME (Black and Ethinc Minority) officers in the Scottish Police Forces. Producer and presenter Ravi Sagoo looks at 40 years since Dilawer Singh joined Strathclyde Police Force in 1968 making him Scotland's first Asian police officer. The programme will show that joining as an Asian was a challenge in being accepted after he was questioned by a superior about wearing a turban, alongside racism in the line of duty. Ravi Sagoo is a former BBC new talent winner and has been a regular presenter on BBC Radio Scotland across music and sport and also on The BBC Asian Network. He also has the third series of the Asian Urban music programme â Ravi Sagoo & Tigerstyle Presentsâ ¦â airing this summer on BBC Radio Scotland. Related links: BBC Scotland launches new Asian show Asian Network reveal winner of talent hunt (more)

BBC beats Kiss and Sunrise
From Radio Today. Posted March 10 2008, 7.06am
BBC Asian Network's Adil Ray has won the award for best radio show at the UK Asian Media Awards at London's Royal Festival Hall. (more)

Adil Ray wins "Best Radio Show" award at UK AMAs
From Biz Asia. Posted March 6 2008, 9.26pm
Adil Ray's daily show on the BBC Asian Network has been named as the 'Best Radio Show' at the UK AMA's. Adil Ray's 'Drivetime' show was up against Ameet Chana's 'Breakdown' also on the BBC Asian Network, Neev's programme on Kiss FM, Punjabi Hit Squad's BBC 1xtra show and Suzi Mann's weekly 'Bollywood Top 20' on Sunrise Radio. The UK AMAs were held at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London. Related links: Five radio shows compete for UK AMA gong B4U Music to partner-up with UK AMAs (more)

Jay Sean to host show on BBC Asian Network
From Biz Asia. Posted March 5 2008, 6.45pm
Singer Jay Sean will make his national radio debut later this month. (more)

BBC Asian Network appoints permanent controller
From Biz Asia. Posted February 22 2008, 2.32pm
Andy Parfitt has been confirmed as BBC Asian Network's permanent controller. (more)

BBC Asian Network 'Drum'
From UTalk Marketing. Posted February 18 2008, 12.02pm
Biggest campaign to date (more)

BBC Asian Network's Pakistan election coverage
From Biz Asia. Posted February 16 2008, 11.42pm
BBC Asian Network will be reporting live with special programming from across Pakistan on the forthcoming National Elections (Monday 18th February). News presenter Rozina Sini will be anchoring the station's coverage from the Pakistani capital and BBC Asian Network's news team will give a breakdown of the results explaining what the vote means for the people of Pakistan. Phone in presenter Nihal will be opening up the phone lines to hear what British Pakistanis think about the election results. The station's team in Pakistan will track the turnout and discover if people in Pakistan believe the elections to be fair and free. Programming started this weekend and continues all day on Monday 18th February. Related link: BBC Asian Network ups the ante on marketing (more)

Deol quits Asian Network breakfast show
From Media Guardian. Posted February 13 2008, 12.30pm
Sonia Deol, the BBC Asian Network presenter who launched the digital radio station six years ago, will not be returning to its breakfast show following an extended break. By John Plunkett (more)

Asian radio industry gives DAB backing
From Biz Asia. Posted February 12 2008, 10.25pm
DAB radio IS the future, say key players in the UK Asian radio sector. The industry is already split over DAB. Is it the cornerstone of the future of digital radio, or is it a hugely expensive white elephant that has already been overtaken by rival delivery platforms such as the web? Earlier this week, GCap Media announced it is to pull back from digital radio to help double profits as part of an overhaul which will see digital radio brands such as theJazz and Planet Rock close down (it has already closed down Core, Life and Disney). BizAsia.co.uk has spoken to the key figures of Asian radio industry who all unanimously supported DAB. Jenny Abramsky, Director, BBC Audio & Music "The BBC has been at the forefront of digital radio for more than ten years and remains fully committed to DAB and the other digital delivery platforms. There's an exciting future for radio. It is central to the lives of huge numbers of people who listen every week. "Recent RAJAR listening figures show that nearly 5.6 million people tune into BBC Radio via DAB each week and the BBC's digital-only networks continue to grow, with two networks – 6 Music and BBC 7 – recently posting record listening figures." Raj Baddhan, Station Manager, ZEE Radio “As a new player in the UK Asian DAB market, we are positive our carefully sifted programming will attract new listeners to digital radio. Programming, packaging and the marketing of the station are factors that can determine the popularity of one station; we aim to deliver on all three. Watch this space." John Ogden, Director, Club Asia "This is a very difficult time for Commercial stations who have been heavily exposed in DAB. Many groups pursued a "land grab" when DAB was launched. They are now realising that the costs of maintaining present simulcast services are largely unsustainable. "However, Commercial Radio is questioning the viability of DAB just as interest among retailers, manufacturers and listeners has never been higher. 23% of homes have DAB digital radio and 30% of homes are listening to radio on a digital platform. However, those listeners clearly demand more than a simulcast of what's already available on their old AM or FM frequencies. We remain excited about our role in the new Channel 4 led multiplex. It is clear to us at Club Asia that DAB has a role in a fast converging UK media industry. DAB is part of a bouquet of opportunities offered to listeners in the future. Listening via the internet and mobile technology will complete the picture. The key is providing new and exciting services that listeners can't get elsewhere" Surjit Singh Ghuman, Director, Asian FX and Panjab Radio "Panjab Radio has proved itself as a leading brand on digital radio with its niche programming. Once again we’re doing the same with Asian FX by offering an entity, which is individual but also something, which listeners have shown interest in. I’m hoping we can turn around the negative press DAB has been receiving of late by shaking up the market with our Asian FX, just like we did with Panjab Radio." Sunrise Radio, which is launching nationally on DAB early next-year refused to provide us with a quote on their plans. Related links: RAJAR Results: Record high listeners for DAB EXCLUSIVE: ZEE Radio launch details emerge Asian FX confirmed for West Midlands DAB launch Two new radio stations launch on Midlands DAB Club Asia to offer podcasts via 4 Digital Group Sunrise Radio to go national after new licence win BBC Asian Network to launch two free podcasts (more)

Sonia Deol quits BBC Asian Network breakfast
From Biz Asia. Posted February 6 2008, 1.14pm
Sonia Deol will no longer host the breakfast show on the BBC Asian Network, it has been confirmed by the corporation. (more)

'Desi DNA' specials with A.Network in Feb
From Biz Asia. Posted January 30 2008, 11.31pm
The BBC Asian arts and entertainment show 'Desi DNA' has teamed up with the BBC Asian Network for two special shows to be aired in February. 'Desi DNA', which is fronted by Adil Ray, Anita Rani, Bobby Friction, Samanthi, Parv Bancil, Nikki Bedi, Tommy Sandhu and Bidisha returned on BBC Two for its fifth series last week. 'Desi DNA & Asian Network Presents' is a multi platform Asian music collaboration spanning DAB digital radio, online, mobile and TV. For the first time full performances from the gig will be available to digital tv viewers via the red button from any BBC channel between 13th and 20th February. 'Desi DNA & BBC Asian Network Presents' introduces the first of two programmes from a specially recorded showcase presented by Adil Ray and Bobby Friction. On Wednesday 13th February (23:20) there are live performances and backstage interviews from artists including Danish rap outfit Outlandish, resurgent R and B singer Jay Sean, currently gaining chart success for his new single Ride It and a rising crop of new talent including exotic electro folk sitar player and singer Bishi and Bhangra DJs Tigerstyle, making their TV debut. Recorded in December exclusively for 'Desi DNA' and the BBC Asian Network at London’s Scala Theatre, digital TV viewers can watch full performances from Jay Sean and Outlandish by pressing the red button from any BBC channel. The second 'Desi DNA & BBC Asian Network Presents' which airs on BBC Two on Wednesday 20th February, introduces more exclusive recordings from the Scala gig. The programme features live performances from Bhangra progressives Swami, more from Jay Sean, and hip hop outfit Sona Family. This will be the first time the Asian Network will function the red button facility on digital TV. Related link: BBC Asian Network ups the ante on marketing (more)

Major marketing for Asian Net
From Radio Today. Posted January 30 2008, 6.42pm
The BBC's Asian Network is launching its biggest ever marketing campaign, whilst becoming available via the Red button on digital television platforms for the first time. The television, online and radio adverts will position the station as The New Sound Of Asian Britain. (more)

BBC pushes 'new sound of Asian Britain'
From Media Guardian. Posted January 30 2008, 4.43pm
National digital radio station BBC Asian Network is launching its biggest-yet marketing campaign next week. By John Plunkett (more)

BBC Asian Network ups the ante on marketing
From Biz Asia. Posted January 29 2008, 11.15pm
The BBC Asian Network is splashing out in a huge way on its biggest ever marketing campaign starting next week across television, radio and online. (more)

New Year special shows on Asian broadcasters
From Biz Asia. Posted December 29 2007, 12.14am
Asian TV and radio channels have lined up a slew of special shows to mark the new year, we bring you a guide to some of the best to watch out for... Aaj Tak 'India Celebrates New Year' live at 18:30. BBC Asian Network New Year's Eve DJs takeover: It's gonna be the biggest Desi party of the year...join the Asian Network on new years eve as we take you into 2008 with 7 hours of the biggest anthems to end the year It all kicks off from 6pm.... 18:00 - Ameet Chana in the mix 19:00 - Gagan Grewal playing the best in Bollywood 20:00 - Dipps Bhamrah in the mix 21:00 - DJ Kayper in the mix 22:00 - Punjabi Hit Squad 23:00 - Sonny Ji 00:00 - Bobby Friction DD News 'India Celebrates New Year' live at 18:30. Channel Punjab 'New Year Special' featuring singing and comedy acts on Monday 31st December at 22:30. NDTV 24x7 will be showing 'Rewind – 2007' anchored by Vikram Chandra that looks back at the most talked about events last year on Politics, International affairs and on Newsmakers. 'Rewind 2007' on Monday 31st December at 20:00. 'India Celebrates New Year' live at 18:30. Sony Entertainment Television is bringing an high-profile show 'Dard-E-Disco', which celebrates bollywood disco and felicitates the original disco kings/queens – Usha Utthup, Bappida, Zeenat Amaan. These stars, the special guests for the evening, will also shake a leg, revisiting their disco memories. 'Dard-E-Disco' on Monday 31st December at 20:00. 'Countdown 2008' on Monday 31st December at 23:30. STAR News 'India Celebrates New Year' live at 18:30. ZEE TV is in a musical mood, the channel will air a Sonu Nigam Special in its popular programme ‘Sa Re Ga Ma L'il Champs' at 20:00 on Saturday 29th December. The show will also have Mithun Chakrabarthy and Amrita Rao as special guests. 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa' on Saturday 29th December at 20:00 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa New Year Dhamaka' on Monday 31st December at 22:00. ZEE Cinema Movie Premiere: Ishq Vishq on Monday 31st December at 20:00 Movie Premiere: Zeher on Monday 31st December at 23:30 (more)

BBC Asian Network's controller Shennan quits
From Biz Asia. Posted December 3 2007, 5.32pm
BBC Asian Network controller Bob Shennan has defected to Channel 4 Radio, where he will head the launch of three national digital stations. (more)

Shennan joins Channel 4 Radio
From Radio Today. Posted December 3 2007, 4.49pm
Bob Shennan, controller of BBC Radio Five Live and BBC Asian Network, is joining Channel 4 Radio. His departure was confirmed in an email to staff this afternoon. (more)

Biz Exec: Hamant Verma - Eastern Eye
From Biz Asia. Posted November 17 2007, 5.14pm
Biz Exec: Edition 11 This feature on BizAsia.co.uk brings you a special series of interviews with UK media executives and personnel. Our Biz Exec this week is: Name: Hamant Verma Organisation: Eastern Eye Title: Editor To read the full interview click here. Previous Biz Exec with: •Reena Combo from Ikonz •Bala Iyer from B4U Network •Haroon Khan from Prime TV •Bob Shennan from BBC Asian Network •Surjit Ghuman from Panjab Radio •Gurjeet Bains from Eastern Media Group •Jasbir Singh Derewal from Channel Punjab •Fayaz Ghafoor from ARY Digital UK •Nick Thind from STAR Network UK •Rajan Singh from Sony Entertainment Television Asia UK Don't miss out on yet another special rendezvous with a top media executive in the UK Asian media field soon on BizAsia.co.uk, the UK's only Asian media news website. If you have anu questions for our Biz Execs...please contact us by clicking here. (more)

BBC Asian Network to launch two free podcasts
From Biz Asia. Posted November 12 2007, 6.45pm
The BBC Asian Network has announced that it will launch two free music podcasts. (more)

BBC Asian Network deny conflict of interest claims
From Biz Asia. Posted November 8 2007, 3.05pm
A newspaper report has suggested that the BBC Asian Network Head of Music had a conflict of interest. (more)

Spotlight: Diwali special radio & TV shows
From Biz Asia. Posted November 5 2007, 9.11pm
Asian TV and radio broadcasters have lined up special shows to air on Diwali, this Friday 9th November. We bring you a guide to what you can expect. THIS PAGE WILL BE UPDATED REGULARLY BBC Asian Network Sonia Deol (6-9am) presents a very special Diwali special show on BBC Asian Network. Reporters will be out and about in Southall talking to members of the Hindu and Sikh community on how they'll be celebrating Diwali and Sonia will be speaking to Jay Sean in the studio about his Diwali plans. There's also reports from Mumbai on the two big Diwali film releases 'Om Shanti Om' and Saawariya'. BBC Asian Network presenters Raj and Pablo will be back fresh from the Premiere of 'Om Shanti Om'. Event: Diwali On The Square Friday 9th November at 19:00 B4U Music Event: Diwali On The Square Friday 9th November at 19:00 MATV National Live Diwali Special with Karsan Kaka Friday 9th November at 20:00 MAX Movie: Jaan-E-Mann Friday 9th November at 20:00 Movie: Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham Saturday 10th November at 20:00 NDTV 24x7 09:30 The complete guide to 'Om Shanti Om' 10:30 Special: 'Diwali Dhamaka'(highlights) 12:30 Exclusive Interview of Sanjay Leela Bhansali 13:30 'Food' with Marut Sikka on Diwali sweets 14:00 The 70's Show 14:30 The 70's Show 18:30 'Food' with Marut Sikka on Diwali sweets (repeat telecast) 19:00 Live telecast of Diwali celebrations from across the country 21:30 Special: 'Diwali Dhamaka' (repeat telecast) 22:00 Bombay Talkies: Farah Khan 22:30 Cell Guru special with Hrithik Roshan 23:30 'Picture This' reviews of Diwali releases 'Om Shanti Om' and 'Saawariya' Sabras Radio Diwali Special Friday 9th November at 18:00 Sony Entertainment Television Asia Event: Salaam E Bollywood Friday 9th November at 13:00 Event: Diwali Show Friday 9th November at 16:30 Event: Bollywood Awards Friday 9th November at 17:30 STAR Gold Movie: Ek Chalis Ki Last Local Saturday 10th November at 21:00 ZEE Cinema Movie: Vivah Saturday 10th November at 20:00 ZEE TV Event: Rishton Ka Utsav Sunday 11th November at 21:30 Above times apply to UK viewers only. Updated: 12:15 on 08/11/07 (more)

Pak music industry fury at BBC Asian Network
From Biz Asia. Posted October 26 2007, 7.42pm
This week's Eastern Eye paper is reporting that the BBC Asian Network has been accused by some in the music industry of ignoring Pakistani tunes on its radio shows. (more)

Biz Exec: Reena Combo - Ikonz magazine
From Biz Asia. Posted October 22 2007, 11.59am
Biz Exec: Edition 10 This feature on BizAsia.co.uk brings you a special series of interviews with UK media executives and personnel. Our Biz Exec this week is: Name: Reena Combo Organisation: Ikonz Title: Editor To read the full interview click here. Previous Biz Exec with: •Bala Iyer from B4U Network •Haroon Khan from Prime TV •Bob Shennan from BBC Asian Network •Surjit Ghuman from Panjab Radio •Gurjeet Bains from Eastern Media Group •Jasbir Singh Derewal from Channel Punjab •Fayaz Ghafoor from ARY Digital UK •Nick Thind from STAR Network UK •Rajan Singh from Sony Entertainment Television Asia UK Don't miss out on yet another special rendezvous with a top media executive in the UK Asian media field soon on BizAsia.co.uk, the UK's only Asian media news website. Watch out for interviews with executives from ZEE Network, Doordarshan UK, Sunrise Radio, and Geo UK over the coming days! If you have anu questions for our Biz Execs...please contact us by clicking here. (more)

No management changes at Asian Network
From Biz Asia. Posted October 21 2007, 12.43am
Contrary to media reports, the BBC Asian Network has confirmed that there will be no management changes at the station despite numerous job cuts across the corporation. On Thursday (18th October), the BBC announced that it will be closing an estimated 2,500 positions between now and 2012/2013, with the areas of News and Factual production most affected. In a statement, Bob Shennan, Controller of the BBC Asian Network, said: "The meeting in Birmingham was a successful one and I mapped out how the Director General's announcements this week impacted on the Asian Network. There are no management changes in the offing. Yesterday [18th October] the DG revealed the plans for the BBC for the next 5 years and in our meetings in Birmingham I was able to outline what that future holds for the Asian Network. In many ways we are ahead of the game in terms of the BBC's Creative Future, we've been on that journey for last two years and we've been the beneficiaries of investment over the past 18 months as we have radically altered the station. We face more testing financial times but will be pressing on to develop the station. We will be planning further changes over the coming months in our bid to make the Asian Network reflect the new sound of Asian Britain." With the latest audience figures set to be reported in the coming days, the BBC Asian Network will no doubt use these to see how listeners have taken to the last batch of changes that included shuffling of shows at the weekend and weekday afternoons. Keep it with BizAsia.co.uk for more. Related links: BBC Asian Network to announce changes? Biz Exec: Bob Shennan - BBC Asian Network (more)

BBC Asian Network to announce changes?
From Biz Asia. Posted October 17 2007, 8.53pm
The BBC Asian Network is expected to announce many changes on Thursday (18th October) as Bob Shennan, Controller, rolls out a five-year strategic plan. (more)

BBC Asian Network secures 'Saawariya' stars
From Biz Asia. Posted October 16 2007, 9.53pm
The BBC Asian Network has secured a UK radio first by setting up an exclusive rendezvous with the much talked about Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor, stars from the yet to be released 'Saawariya'. The interviews will be aired on the network's 'Love Bollywood' show on Saturday 20th October, ahead of the film's debut at the box office on Diwali (9th November). According to the BBC, the two stars of the Sanjay Leela Bhansali movie will take questions from callers and will be accompanied by the film's music director Monty Sharma. Listeners are invited to email their questions via 'Love Bollywood' page on the official network website. (more)

What the BBC Asian Network hasn't scanned...
From Biz Asia. Posted September 21 2007, 8.52am
Amusingly, the BBC Asian Network chose to investigate and put to rest an investigation into its all-time popular 'Film Cafe' (read the story on BizAsia.co.uk here), but one wonders why a number of other going-ons never came under the scanner: 1. Years back, a leading Asian tabloid in the UK wrote about a reporter soliciting money from Bollywood producers and distributors in exchange of publicity on the show...nothing appears to have become of that bit of news! 2. On a number of occasions it is so apparent that guest interviews are done by the show producer and then presenters dub these as their own! 3. We've heard of reporters pretending to be overseas on air when they are actually in the UK! 4. What about presenters using the Asian Network to get freelance work from outside and taking advantage of their situation to further their own independent work such as PR, club nights and DJ-ing? 5. Correct us if we're wrong but last year a pre-recorded show was passed off as a live...Bobby Friction's show, which was pre-recorded, played on the wrong day! On Christmas day, he was wishing his listeners Happy New Year! Related link: BBC Asian Network film show lands in trouble (more)

BBC Asian Network film show lands in trouble
From Biz Asia. Posted September 20 2007, 8.13pm
The BBC Asian Network's former Bollywood show 'Film Café' has come under scrutiny for serious rule breach. (more)

Biz Exec: Bala Iyer - B4U Network
From Biz Asia. Posted September 13 2007, 12.02am
Biz Exec: Edition 9 This feature on BizAsia.co.uk brings you a special series of interviews with UK media executives and personnel. Our Biz Exec this week is: Name: Bala Iyer Organisation: B4U Network Title: Vice President, UK and Europe To read the full interview click here. Previous Biz Exec with: •Haroon Khan from Prime TV •Bob Shennan from BBC Asian Network •Surjit Ghuman from Panjab Radio •Gurjeet Bains from Eastern Media Group •Jasbir Singh Derewal from Channel Punjab •Fayaz Ghafoor from ARY Digital UK •Nick Thind from STAR Network UK •Rajan Singh from Sony Entertainment Television Asia UK Don't miss out on yet another special rendezvous with a top media executive in the UK Asian media field soon on BizAsia.co.uk, the UK's only Asian media news website. Watch out for interviews with executives from ZEE Network, Doordarshan UK, Sunrise Radio, and Geo UK over the coming days! If you have anu questions for our Biz Execs...please contact us by clicking here. (more)

Jay Sean & Raghav new music airs on A Network
From Biz Asia. Posted September 11 2007, 9.53am
RnB artist Jay Sean will exclusively perform songs from his new album 'My Own Way' on the BBC Asian Network's Uni Tour '07. After the success of the 2006 Uni Tour, Asian Network announces another ten date tour which will see its unique sound taken to Universities up and down the UK . The tour kicks off Friday 28th September at University of Hertfordshire where Jay Sean will headline with support from H.Dhami and Mumzy, Swami and Asian Network DJs Bobby Friction, DJ Kayper and Sonny Ji who will play throughout the tour with appearances also from Panjabi Hit Squad. Jay Sean had UK Chart success with his debut album, 'Me Against Myself' in 2004 as well as his singles like "Eyes on You" and "Stolen" which reached the Top 10. Jay Sean is also a big hit overseas in India where his first album sold over 2 million copies. The Kings College date - Thursday 25th October will see Jay Sean perform a special LIVE album preview. The Tour will see exclusive plays of much anticipated new material from Raghav who has seen widespread international chart success with Top 10 hits like "Can't Get Enough" and "Angel Eyes" as well as female urban artist Hard Kaur who is returning with a new album later this year entitled 'Supawoman'. Lyrical pioneers Swami will showcase new material including their hit single "Hey Hey" which is getting major MySpace attention as well as heavy radio play. Their anticipated album 'Equalize' takes influences from North African and French hip-hop to the rap of the American East Coast. Ones to watch this time around include British Asian Hip Hop acts Sona Family whose music is supported by Radio DJs Bobby Friction and Nihal, Bhangra artist Imran Khan and the Rishi Rich Showcase featuring H.Dhami and Mumzy. Rishi Rich is a pioneering producer famous for his mix of bhangra, Bollywood and urban beats. He has produced albums on the British-Asian music scene and has also made a mark on the mainstream charts, producing and remixing hits for Madonna, Britney Spears, Mary J Blige and Craig David. Uni Tour 07 takes in Hertfordshire, Leeds, Middlesex, Surrey, Manchester, London, Leicester, Warwick, Kent and Sheffield. Full details of artists appearing is shown below. Mark Strippel, BBC Asian Network Head of Music said: "Asian Network is proud to really support and nurture the British-Asian music scene. Asian Network is where you'll find the hottest DJs and artists and new British Asian material - first. That's why artists choose to work with us exclusively. We’re especially excited to have the first exclusive access to Jay Sean’s new album". Bobby Friction, Asian Network's flagship specialist DJ said: "I'm so revved about the Uni Tour because it's grown substantially this year and we're covering length breadth of UK. The tour musically is going to be Asian beats heaven, with a mix from the established order dropping exclusives and performing with us, PLUS what's really got me hot under the collar is the new generation of acts who'll be using this tour to break through. British Universities are actually on the cutting edge when it comes to live Asian music and creativity." (more)

Q1 2007: Sunrise vs BBC Asian Network
From Biz Asia. Posted August 19 2007, 6.49pm
Days back, BizAsia.co.uk revealed the macro RAJAR results for the preceding quarter. (more)

RAJAR Results: Sunrise Radio maintains lead
From Biz Asia. Posted August 16 2007, 9.16am
Sunrise Radio has trounced its competitor the BBC Asian Network and retains the title as the UK's most popular Asian radio station, according to latest RAJARs. (more)

Record reach for BBC digitals
From Radio Today. Posted August 16 2007, 9.01am
The BBC's five digital-only networks – BBC 6 Music, 1Xtra BBC, BBC 7, BBC Asian Network and BBC Five Live Sports Extra continued their strong performance this quarter, with Five Live Sports Extra bringing in 866,000 listeners in a record listening figure for the network. (more)

BBC Asian Network unveils new 'modern' logo
From Biz Asia. Posted August 9 2007, 2.47pm
The BBC Asian Network is to get a new logo as part of the BBC’s £120,000 revamp across all its stations. (more)

Biz Exec: Bob Shennan - BBC Asian Network
From Biz Asia. Posted August 5 2007, 6.06pm
Biz Exec: Edition 7 This feature on BizAsia.co.uk brings you a special series of interviews with UK media executives and personnel. Our Biz Exec this week is: Name: Bob Shennan Organisation: BBC Asian Network Title: Controller To read the full interview click here. Previous Biz Exec with: Surjit Ghuman from Panjab Radio Gurjeet Bains from Eastern Media Group Jasbir Singh Derewal from Channel Punjab Fayaz Ghafoor from ARY Digital UK Nick Thind from STAR Network UK Rajan Singh from Sony Entertainment Television Asia UK Don't miss out on yet another special rendezvous with a top media executive in the UK Asian media field next week on BizAsia.co.uk, the UK's only Asian media news website. Watch out for interviews with executives from ZEE Network, Prime TV and Geo UK over the coming days! If you have anu questions for our Biz Execs...please contact us by clicking here. (more)

'Jas The Man' to join Nihal on BBC Asian Network
From Biz Asia. Posted July 30 2007, 1.13pm
As revealed exclusively first on BizAsia.co.uk, we can now confirm Jas Rao, also known as 'Jas the Man' from Club Asia will join the Asian Network on Monday 13th August. (more)

Biz Exec: Surjit Ghuman - Panjab Radio
From Biz Asia. Posted July 15 2007, 3.55pm
Biz Exec: Edition 6 This feature on BizAsia.co.uk brings you a special series of interviews with UK media executives and personnel. Our Biz Exec this week is: Name: Surjit Singh Ghuman Organisation: Panjab Radio Title: Station Director To read the full interview click here. Previous Biz Exec with: Gurjeet Bains from Eastern Media Group Jasbir Singh Derewal from Channel Punjab Fayaz Ghafoor from ARY Digital UK Nick Thind from STAR Network UK Rajan Singh from Sony Entertainment Television Asia UK Don't miss out on yet another special rendezvous with a top media executive in the UK Asian media field next week on BizAsia.co.uk, the UK's only Asian media news website. Watch out for interviews with executives from ZEE Network, BBC Asian Network, Prime TV and Geo UK over the coming days! If you have anu questions for our Biz Execs...please contact us by clicking here. (more)

Asian DJ gets prominent slot on Kiss 100
From Biz Asia. Posted July 11 2007, 8.59am
The popular voice of Kiss 100 DJ Neev has been given a prominent slot on London's 'hip and happening' urban station Kiss 100. She will be taking over the weekday 12-3pm slot. The young, brassy and confident presenter has been part of the Kiss 100 family since 2004, not only presenting but also producing and not to mention being the voice of Kiss by doing most of the voiceovers for the commercial station. Neev began her radio career at the tender age of 18 at her local radio station Reading 107FM, working across the station as the traffic & travel girl and quickly moving onto co-presenting and producing shows. Since then, she has gone from strength to strength, producing and presenting regularly on BBC Asian Network (for 4 years) and Star 106.6FM under the alias Tara K (for 3 years). After a recent stint of presenting the daily 3-6am slot on Kiss which she describes as her 'dream station' and impressing listeners and superiors alike, Neev is delighted to be the new daily host of the lunchtime slot from 12-3pm daily on Kiss 100FM. Andy Roberts, Group Programme Director at Kiss, said " Neev has done great work on building Kiss's early morning audience over the last few months and now I feel its time for her to step up and host Kiss London's new lunchtime show." Still only 25, her aspirations of having a daily radio show have arrived and her dreams are now a reality. Neev said:"I couldn't be happier with my move to daytime...I grew up listening to Kiss and it truly is a privileged to be part of the station... I think lunchtimes will be awesome". Music producer Rishi Rich was also a part of Kiss 100, he fronted his own music show with pals Juggy D and Jay Sean on Friday nights. (more)

Biz Exec: Gurjeet Bains - Eastern Media Group
From Biz Asia. Posted July 8 2007, 5.33pm
Biz Exec: Edition 5 This feature on BizAsia.co.uk brings you a special series of interviews with UK media executives and personnel. Our Biz Exec this week is: Name: Gurjeet Bains Organisation: Eastern Media Group Title: Editor To read the full interview click here. Previous Biz Exec with: Jasbir Singh Derewal from Channel Punjab Fayaz Ghafoor from ARY Digital UK Nick Thind from STAR Network UK Rajan Singh from Sony Entertainment Television Asia UK Don't miss out on yet another special rendezvous with a top media executive in the UK Asian media field next week on BizAsia.co.uk, the UK's only Asian media news website. Watch out for interviews with executives from ZEE Network, Panjab Radio, BBC Asian Network, Prime TV and Geo UK over the coming days! If you have anu questions for our Biz Execs...please contact us by clicking here. (more)

BBC Scotland launches new Asian show
From Biz Asia. Posted July 3 2007, 1.41pm
BBC Scotland is launching a month-long Asian orientated show with ex-BBC Asian Network presenter Ravi Sagoo. Last summer, BBC Scotland aired a 'Tigerstyle Presents...' programme, which proved immensely popular. The new programme will be a follow-up to last year's show with a focus on Asian Urban music. The Bhangra duo Tigerstyle (Raj and Pops) will guest on the show as weekly guest contributors / session artists. Ravi Sagoo went on to win the BBC’s New Talent Radio Presenter Search 2005/06, which lead him to front the Asian Network's Chart Show. His contract came to an end earlier this year and the programme was relaunched last month with former Club Asia presenter Noreen Khan. 'Ravi Sagoo and Tigerstyle Present...' will air between Tuesday 3rd July to Tuesday 7th August at 20:00 on BBC Scotland. Related links: Asian Network reveal winner of talent hunt Club Asia DJ to defect to BBC Asian Network? (more)

Biz Exec: Jasbir Singh Derewal - Channel Punjab
From Biz Asia. Posted July 1 2007, 6.56pm
Biz Exec: Edition 4 This feature on BizAsia.co.uk brings you a special series of interviews with UK media executives and personnel. Our Biz Exec this week is: Name: Jasbir Singh Derewal Organisation: Channel Punjab Title: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer To read the full interview click here. Previous Biz Exec with: Fayaz Ghafoor from ARY Digital UK Nick Thind from STAR Network UK Rajan Singh from Sony Entertainment Television Asia UK Don't miss out on yet another special rendezvous with a top media executive in the UK Asian media field next week on BizAsia.co.uk, the UK's only Asian media news website. Watch out for interviews with executives from ZEE Network, Punjab Radio, BBC Asian Network, Prime TV, Eastern Media Group and Geo UK over the coming days! (more)

BBC Asian Network's 'Love Bollywood' biased?
From Biz Asia. Posted July 1 2007, 1.58am
The BBC Asian Network should pride its content in its inherent impartiality, which only means that every little bit that goes out on air should, ideally, be researched and well thought of, to say the least...and especially when it's about something as critical as passing a trade verdict on released films. On its new film programme 'Love Bollywood' on Saturday morning, the producers had trade mag editor Komal Nahta on to talk about the three releases - 'Aap Ka Suroor', 'Apne' and 'Awarapan'. We won't even get into his individual opinions on the three films because that's subjective at the end of the day and we're not sure we necessarily agree with him, but what took our goat was his gush-ology about 'Aap Ka Suroor' and its grand opening in India. Alright, so the Himesh Reshammiya-starrer saw a heartening advance booking in India (on Monday morning, we'll know the second week advance booking figures) but what the producers forgot to declare (or maybe, didn't know) was that Nahta is reportedly an interested party in that film, or so we're informed by our sources. Correct us if we're wrong please, but in the credits of 'Aap Ka Suroor', hasn't he been credited as 'Script Doctor'? And if that is indeed the case, he is hardly going to slam the film he's been paid to doctor! Related link: Exclusive Review: Asian Network's Love Bollywood (more)

Exclusive Review: Asian Network's Love Bollywood
From Biz Asia. Posted June 17 2007, 1.30pm
As part of its programming changes, the BBC Asian Network unveiled a series of new shows, the most ambitious one being 'Love Bollywood', which launched on Saturday 16th June and Sunday 17th June. I had a listen to the eight-hour marathon over the two days and spoke to key industry and media insiders, representatives from the listening community and of course his own mind, to critique the shows, which clearly left a lot to be desired! "Is it wrong to buy pirate CDs and DVDs?" (Yawn!) This age-old issue isn't even a debate anymore - the answer is a foregone conclusion. But 'Love Bollywood' (replacing the hugely popular 'Film Cafe') believes this is a hot topic to discuss for a full hour on its Sunday edition. Worse still, on its Saturday edition, the presenters were devoting precious airtime to vapid brain-dead issues such as "Kissing In Bollywood", linking kissing to potential progression of the Indian film industry (for Chrissake!). What followed was a string of Joe Blogs calling the hotline to express random amateurish viewpoints (all in the guise of interactivity), nothing you haven't heard before or don't know about. [If this lot is keen to get this in-depth, why not get artistes and filmmakers who are notorious/famous for kissing to talk (if at all) and debate with credible culture crusaders? But heyho, that's hard work!] The precise problem with 'Love Bollywood' is that it fully and heartlessly takes out the entertainment and fun quotient from Bollywood to give it a falsely and superficially serious edge, that is far from welcome on weekend mornings. The razzle dazzle, glamour, gossip and excitement associated with the industry have gone for a toss only to be replaced by topics, points and facts that reflect a serious non-understanding of the Indian film industry and what it stands for. There is nothing time-specific about this programme either - you can play it anytime of the day and it will fit in! So why have it replace 'Breakfast'? Alright, so on the odd occasion we are lucky to have an intelligent commercial product or an aesthetic one from parallel cinema ('Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi', 'Sardari Begum', 'Omkara', 'The Legend Of Bhagat Singh', to name a few) but let's get real- on the whole, Bollywood cinema is predominantly commercial cinema, known the world over for its escapism and grandeur - why completely intellectualise it with casual verbal diarrohea that's far from stimulating or thought-provoking? More amusingly, why do that, when the presenters (two self-proclaimed 'it' boys, a fun-filled madcap and a shreeky political correspondent - none of whom match the intended character of the revised programme) quite evidently suffer from a pronounced lack of domain knowledge and expertise? (leave aside the floundering oratory and miserable pronounciations!) More pertinently, what is all this debate eventually leading to? Does 'Love Bollywood' have serious recommendations or solutions to curb piracy or was it a debate for the sake of a debate to kill an hour? The stunning Lara Dutta sat pretty in BBC's Mumbai studio on Saturday answering bog-standard PR questions about her new release....'Love Bollywood' obviously believes she's big enough to have back, considering she featured on 'Film Cafe' only last week! An over-saturated Amitabh Bachchan was used as a 15-minute filler, talking about the usual "honour" and "privilege" that it was to be felicitated by BAFTA and the IIFA Awards (for which he is the brand ambassador) being "the best". What else were the producers and presenters expecting him to say? Let's tread the originality path now.....The Maestro feature (featuring Asha Bhonsle on Sunday) is an obvious rehash of 'Musical Genius', that was previously on Sunday Soundtrack. The Lurve Bollywood feature (where a listener talks about a song to do with his/her love life or something like that!) is reminiscent of 'Undercover Lover' on Sonia Deol's show. The concept of interactivity and phoning in is a lame attempt to ape 'Phone-In by Nihal'? (At least, he does a good job of it!) So much for an all-new 'Love Bollywood'! Finally, according to the maiden episode of this programme, the Chopras' 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' was a defining moment in Bollywood. What does 'defining moment' mean? And whose opinion is that? The presenters'? The producers'? Or was their result drawn out of an online customer survey or a research scanning the annals of Bollywood history? Does it take a runaway hit at the box-office (like 'DDLJ') to define or redefine Bollywood? We don't think so! If 'DDLJ' redefined Bollywood, in recent years, what about RAAZ (which made the horror genre fashionable in Bollywood all over again), 'Jism' and 'Murder' (which brought in a wave of sensuousness), 'Dil Chahta Hai' (which introduced new-age youth culture), 'Don' (which popularised remakes), 'Krrish' (which gave Bollywood its first superhero), 'Lagaan' (which brought in sport), 'Rang De Basanti', 'Black Friday' and 'Parzania' (which brought in political awareness and consciousness) and 'Khosla Ka Ghosla', 'Honeymoon Travels...' and 'Bheja Fry' (which introduced unconventional budget cinema to the box-office)? Sorry guys, these films redefined Bollywood! (Heard of them?) I can't, for the life of me, understand why anyone with two grey cells would want to surface at 8am on weekends to endure four boring hours of pseudo-analytical gibberish interspersed with the odd song! Lazing around in your duvet, cooking some tidy breakfast, gardening....or perhaps.....tuning into the telly might be saner alternatives! What do you think of BBC Asian Network's new weekend programming, email us at raj@media247.co.uk. (more)

Club Asia DJ to defect to BBC Asian Network?
From Biz Asia. Posted June 11 2007, 11.54pm
A few months ago, it was reported on BizAsia.co.uk that a presenter on London's Club Asia was to defect to BBC Asian Network, following in the footsteps of Noreen Khan. Speculation is rife that Club Asia's Breakfast show presenter Jas "The Man" will be leaving to join the BBC Asian Network as producer for a show, which is yet to be confirmed. Even though a show is also likely to be given to Jas, details remain sketchy on what his exact involvement at the Asian Network will be. According to industry rumours, Jas "The Man" will be leaving Club Asia at the end of this month. Noreen Khan left Club Asia earlier this year to join the national BBC station. Her chart show begins this Saturday at midday. Previously K-Jal defected to Sunrise Radio. Keep it with BizAsia.co.uk for the utmost latest. Related links: BBC Asian Network to increase music output Biz Asia Industry Whispers (more)

Radio 1's Rajini to front film show on A. Network
From Biz Asia. Posted June 5 2007, 8.41pm
The BBC Asian Network has roped in Radio 1's Politics reporter Rajini Vaidynathan for its new Bollywood show, starting from Saturday 16th June. As revealed exclusively first here on BizAsia.co.uk, the programme titled 'Love Bollywood' will be taking over weekend mornings between 08:00 and midday. 'Love Bollywood' is being positioned as a totally interactive show, giving listeners the "most extensive Bollywood coverage". Sheetal Parmar, the show’s producer says of the new show, "Love Bollywood is an in depth look at Bollywood films, the stars and the industry, but for the first time, it'll be predominantly about the audience and their experience of it. Many British Asians have been brought up with Bollywood and it's a part of their cultural make up whether they like it or not! The audience will decide what we discuss and listen to through message boards, phone ins and an exclusive ‘rant line’. It'll give back to them what they want and more – for example industry related issues like how new media moguls’ who are diversifying the cultural background of Bollywood, which means we're seeing more gutsy and culturally challenging films. It's ambitious and bold, and very exciting to be able to produce something like this". Saturday's edition of the programme will be presented by flamboyant 'IT' boys Raj and Pablo. They currently present the 'Film Cafe' on Saturday mornings. ZEE Music VJ and Asian Network presenter Murtz Ali will be accompanied by Rajini as hosts of the Sunday edition of 'Love Bollywood'. Rajini Vaidynathan of Radio 1 says: "People might think it's a bit odd me doing this with a background from News, but anyone who knows me will know I'm mad about Bollywood, just like most British Asians who've been brought up on a diet of Bollywood films. I'm really happy to be involved with something so different, and to be able to indulge in a guilty pleasure!" Updated: 06/06/07 at 23:09 BizAsia.co.uk will bring you a review of the first outing of 'Love Bollywood' weekend in the coming days. Related links: A. Network's Love Bollywood's 'lovebirds' finalised? EXCLUSIVE: Film show changes at Asian Network EXCLUSIVE: BBC Asian Network goes 'filmy' Dates for new Asian Network changes BBC Asian Network to increase music output (more)

Wedding bells for two BBC Asian Network DJs
From Biz Asia. Posted June 3 2007, 7.45pm
The wedding season is in full swing and two BBC Asian Network presenters have decided to tie the knot. The first being Murtaza (better known as Murtz from ZEE Music) reportedly had a civil wedding with his non-media fiancée last month and the couple is expected to make it official at a formal nikah in June or July. Another BBC presenter, Bobby Friction (host of Friction at 22:00 weeknights) tied the knot with his fiancée Bal (short for Baljit) in Birmingham on Sunday. Bal has worked as a producer for the Asian Network, including producing Friction's show in the past. (more)

A. Network's Love Bollywood's 'lovebirds' finalised?
From Biz Asia. Posted June 1 2007, 9.03am
Last week we exclusively revealed the axing of the successful 'Film Cafe' and 'Sunday Soundtrack' shows to make way for two four-hour long weekend Bollywood shows, cheesily christened 'Love Bollywood'. The new shows are kicking off on the 16th and 17th of June and will be broadcast from the London studio between 8am and noon when most of the listener base is presumably enjoying their weekend snooze. It appears that the presenters of 'Film Cafe' and 'Sunday Soundtrack' - Raj & Pablo (despite a round of bad press for the Asian Network) and Murtz have been asked to anchor 'Love Bollywood' on Saturday and Sunday respectively. Watch out for the first reviews of Love Bollywood on Bizasia.co.uk and also for the update on the RAJAR figures post the changes. Related links: EXCLUSIVE: Film show changes at Asian Network EXCLUSIVE: BBC Asian Network goes 'filmy' Dates for new Asian Network changes BBC Asian Network to increase music output (more)

EXCLUSIVE: Film show changes at Asian Network
From Biz Asia. Posted May 25 2007, 10.16am
As revealed exclusively first here on BizAsia.co.uk, the BBC Asian Network will be launching two four-hour Bollywood shows at the weekend from Saturday 16 th June. The second show will be on Sunday 17th June. Currently, the BBC Asian Network airs two Bollywood programmes - 'Film Cafe' on Saturday mornings and 'Sunday Soundtrack' on Sunday mornings. Strangely, both these top-performing shows done out of Birmingham are being discontinued from the weekend of 9 th June to make way for a new film brand for the station the following week out of London! Cheesily enough, the new film shows have been christened, 'Love Bollywood'. The programmes will air on Saturday and Sunday between 08:00 and midday. The station is yet to disclose presenter names for its new show. Raj and Pablo have were presenting 'Film Cafe' earlier but following complaints on quality and bad press, it remains to be seen whether the duo will be fronting the new show. Or will there be a variety of presenters to break the monotony of the having to listen to the same voice for eight hours on weekend mornings! Don't forget to log in for our review of the new programme! Related link: EXCLUSIVE: BBC Asian Network goes 'filmy' Dates for new Asian Network changes BBC Asian Network to increase music output (more)

BBC Asian Network Summer Schedule
From Merry Media. Posted May 9 2007, 12.29am
BBC Asian Network have announced their biggest and best summer schedule of live music events in 2007.. (more)

BBC Asian Network snaps up a Sony gong
From Biz Asia. Posted May 1 2007, 9.36am
The BBC Asian Network is celebrating today after it walked away with a Sony Radio Academy Award last night. (more)

EXCLUSIVE: BBC Asian Network goes 'filmy'
From Biz Asia. Posted April 21 2007, 1.04am
Quite apparently, the BBC Asian Network appears to have woken up to the power of Bollywood and is planning to increase its film-based content across the weekend. (more)

Dates for new Asian Network changes
From Biz Asia. Posted April 17 2007, 8.34pm
The dates for the latest batch of BBC Asian Network changes have been confirmed to BizAsia.co.uk. As revealed last month, the Asian Network is undergoing subtle changes to "keep the momentum up" of the station's vibrant and young sound. The BBC Asian Network will be chopping an hour from Nikki Bedi's lunch time show to make way for a daily four-hour marathon run of its Drive show with Adil Ray. From Monday 21st April, the new sounding Drive show will air between 15:00 and 19:00. The changes will also see a new addition to the Saturday night schedule with a two-hour Bhangra show taking centre stage. The new show goes live on the 16th of June. There's also the new signing of Noreen Khan (ex-Club Asia) who makes her Asian Network debut this Saturday on the Network Chart Show at 13:00. Nihal will take the reins of the BBC Asian Network phone-in (Weekdays 9am-12pm) from Monday 8th May. A station insider said; "In terms of changes this about it, it's more about keeping the momentum behind what we promised we would do last year and stepping up a gear change to make that happen." Related link: BBC Asian Network to increase music output (more)

Bollywood star to co-present on Asian Network
From Biz Asia. Posted April 4 2007, 8.47pm
In a unique programming coup, the popular 'Film Cafe' on the BBC Asian Network has scooped Tusshar Kapoor and Manish Malhotra together, through Studio 18 UK. The young film star and the industry's top dress designer will co-host 'Film Cafe' live on Saturday 14th April from 11:00 (BST) with British-Asian actor and BBC presenter, Ameet Chana. Among other things, Tusshar will talk about his forthcoming romantic comedy, 'Kya Love Story Hai', which releases worldwide on Friday 20th April. The film, which is already in the news for its chartbusting music by Pritam and Kareena Kapoor's sensational appearance, is being distributed and marketed internationally by Studio 18. Ace designer Manish Malhotra has styled Tusshar Kapoor and Ayesha Takia in 'Kya Love Story Hai'. A host of celebrity friends and professionals associated with the film are also expected to call in live. The BBC Asian Network is also giving out Ayesha Takia's black dress from the 'Miss You Everyday' track and Tusshar's Abercrombie and Fitch jeans as grand competition prizes. Remarked BBC's Assistant Editor, Kuljinder Singh, "Film Cafe is the flagship Bollywood show on the Asian Network and is going from strength to strength with its exclusive and innovative programming content for listeners. We look forward to having big names as Tusshar and Manish Malhotra joining Ameet Chana live." The 'Film Café' special will air at 10am on Saturday 14th April on the BBC Asian Network. Updated: 08:01 on 05/04/07 (more)

Noreen Khan Joins Asian Network
From Merry Media. Posted April 2 2007, 12.56pm
Noreen Khan, formerly of Club Asia, will join the BBC Asian Network from next month, as the station boosts its music offering, it was announced today.. (more)

Scooped: Radio station websites lack updates
From Biz Asia. Posted April 1 2007, 11.24pm
This week BizAsia.co.uk's sleuths scooped down on the websites of a few Asian radio stations in the UK and were appalled to see how most of them have not been updated in weeks, months, and even, years! These discoveries were correct as of 19:00 on Sunday 01st April 2007: Sunrise Radio: -An hour before the event is about to reach its end, a banner advert on the homepage still invites exhibitors to book their stand for the Asian Lifestyle Show in Birmingham, which it says is "Coming Back"! -No one has reviewed any Bollywood movie ever since the release of the dud 'Zindaggi Rocks', almost eight months back! -The presenters' page does not have any profiles for nearly half a dozen presenters. -The Entertainment section has a solo snippet on Ram Gopal Varma being criticised for trying to remake 'Sholay' - a news item that is more than six months old! -The Celeb Files section features only Hrithik Roshan, who has been there for nearly half a year now. -The news snippets in the Bollywood section vary from being three to six months old! -The Events page is still busy celebrating the Diwali 2006 occasion at the Square in London! Club Asia: -The Playlist C has no tracks! -The Essential 20 Chart features only 19 tracks! What happened to No.20? -The little box on the 'Highest New Entry' features an image of the film 'Dil Apna Punjabi', released last year. -The Urban Session Playlist hasn't been updated since 01/10/2006. Asian Sound Radio: -After more than a year, the website continues to state 'The Asian Sound Radio website is currently being updated'. Radio XL: -The page with the Schedule has been missing for over two years! -The links for Daily Bollywood Top Ten and Bollywood News take you nowhere. Ditto for the links for News & Weather, Asian Love & Message Board. The only sites that seem almost fully updated belong to Sabras Radio and BBC Asian Network. If you've spotted any unusual or strangely funny items on Asian TV, radio or in print, please contact BizAsia.co.uk today and we will publish the best goof ups on the website. (more)

BBC Asian Network to increase music output
From Biz Asia. Posted March 30 2007, 8.17pm
In what seems like another revamp in programming, the BBC Asian Network is boosting its music output, along with several other changes in the coming weeks. (more)

BBC digital radio via 3G
From Radio Today. Posted March 29 2007, 7.39pm
The BBC is to trial the broadcasting of up to eight of its national radio stations via 3G mobile phones. Radio 1, 1Xtra, Radio 2, Radio 3, Radio 4, 6 Music, BBC7 and the Asian Network will beavailable within a month to Vodafone, Orange and 3 customers who subscribe to their network's TV service. Radio 5 Live will not be available. (more)

Three Sony Radio Award noms for Asian Network
From Biz Asia. Posted March 28 2007, 9.03pm
The BBC Asian Network is celebrating today after it received three nominations for the radio equivalent to the Oscars. (more)

Radio 1 DJ joins Asian Network
From Radio Today. Posted February 22 2007, 12.33am
Nihal Arthanayake, a regular presenter on BBC Radio 1 is set to join the BBC Asian Network to take-over the mid-morning phone-in each weekday. He will replace Anita Rani, who will move to The Asian Network Report which airs each Monday evening at 6:30pm. (more)

Radio 1 DJ to Join BBC Asian Network
From Merry Media. Posted February 21 2007, 2.11pm
BBC Radio 1 DJ Nihal Arthanayake will take the reins of the BBC Asian Network weekdays morning phone-in, it was announced today.. (more)

Nihal named as replacement for Anita Rani
From Biz Asia. Posted February 21 2007, 12.06pm
DJ Nihal Arthanayake, will take the reins of the BBC Asian Network phone in (Weekdays 9am-12pm) from May it was announced today. Nihal, who already presents 'Kicking Off' with Nihal on Saturdays during the football season on the Asian Network and simulcasts his Radio 1 show with Bobby Friction on Tuesday evenings will succeed Anita Rani in the role from Tuesday 8th May. Anita Rani whom Nihal succeeds on the phone in will be the regular voice on the Asian Network's documentary strand 'The Asian Network Report' (Mondays at 18:30). Nihal said: "People know me primarily as a music person but I take great interest in issues that affect the Asian community in the 21st Century. The phone in really gets under the skin of what British Asians are thinking and how that affects what it's like to live in Britain for everybody." Asian Network Controller Bob Shennan said of the new appointments: "Nihal and Anita are exciting BBC talents with a big future. They will be filling two crucial roles on the network, and bring their energy and insight to the heart of our journalism and debate." Related link: Reports: Anita Rani to leave radio talk show (more)

Nihal Arthanayake to host BBC Asian Network phone-in
From Media Guardian. Posted February 21 2007, 12.00am
2pm: Radio 1 DJ Nihal Arthanayake is to take over the morning phone-in on the BBC's Asian Network. By John Plunkett. (more)

BBC Asian Network Film Cafe Awards
From Merry Media. Posted February 19 2007, 12.16pm
After a month of public voting, radio presenters Raj and Pablo finally revealed the BBC Asian Network Film Café Award winners – the only audience voted online Bollywood award in the UK.. (more)

Former Eastenders Actress Stars in Silver Street
From Merry Media. Posted February 15 2007, 12.49am
In an adrenaline packed story line involving a siege, former EastEnder Pooja Shah will make her radio drama debut alongside Nitin Ganatra in BBC Asian Network's daily soap Silver Street.. (more)

BBC Asian Network to air debate on 'Big Brother'
From Biz Asia. Posted January 25 2007, 1.11pm
This year's 'Celebrity Big Brother' went from being a TV show into an international diplomatic incident and sparked a national race debate along the way. Next Monday night (29th January), in a special 'Asian Network Report' to round off the station's 'Big Brother' coverage, the Asian Network is asking whether the race row surrounding the show was hype or hatred. Did the behaviour in the house reveal what really happens in multi-racial Britain? Presenter Sonia Deol will be hosting a live event at the University of East London to give British Asians the opportunity to air their views along with celebrity guest from the race debate. Just Reality TV or the real Britain? You Decide. Asian Network Report - Big Brother special on the BBC Asian Network on Monday at 18:00. (more)

BBC Radio 1 & BBC Asian Network Team Up for Broadcast
From Merry Media. Posted January 16 2007, 2.17pm
BBC Radio 1 and BBC Asian Network will join together for the first time to broadcast the first UK performance in years from critically-acclaimed Danish export, Outlandish.. (more)

Toyah Willcox Makes Soap Debut
From Merry Media. Posted November 29 2006, 4.30pm
Actor and singer Toyah Willcox will make her soap debut when she appears in the BBC Asian Network's Silver Street - as Sean Brady's estranged mother Siobhan.. (more)

All Out for BBC Asian Network
From Radio Today. Posted November 14 2006, 12.43am
Independent radio production company All Out Productions has signed up Steve Chandra Savale, member of legendary rap outfit Asian Dub Foundation, to present Ragastani for the BBC Asian Network’s Asian Network Report strand.The commission is All Out’s second for the Asian Network. (more)

Blue Peter host turns her hand to news
From Media Guardian. Posted September 1 2006, 1.00am
1pm: Blue Peter's Konnie Huq is to make her debut as a news presenter in a series of documentaries for the BBC's Asian Network. By Julia Day. (more)

Konnie Huq to make news debut
From Radio Today. Posted August 31 2006, 5.45pm
Blue Peter presenter Konnie Huq makes her debut in news presenting next week as the first presenter of the BBC Asian Network's hard-hitting new documentaries. The programmes will be broadcast on Mondays at 6.30pm within the Adil Ray programme. The first of the Asian Network Reports - Love, 'Honour' and Obey on 4 September 2006 - will look at the horrifying instances of honour killing in the UK Asian community. (more)

Radio News Debut For Blue Peter's Konnie Huq
From Merry Media. Posted August 31 2006, 4.38pm
Blue Peter presenter Konnie Huq makes her debut in news presenting next week as the first presenter of the BBC Asian Network's hard hitting new documentaries. The programmes will be broadcast on Mondays at 6.30pm within the Adil Ray programme. The first of the Asian Network Reports - Love, 'Honour', and Obey on 4th September 2006 - will look at the horrifying instances of honour killing in the UK Asian community. Every year in the UK, 13 young people are killed and thousands more are abused or intimidated in the name of family 'honour'. It is thought that almost 200 such murder victims have met their death in this way over the last decade.. (more)

Football for the Asian Network
From Radio Today. Posted August 15 2006, 9.30am
BBC Asian Network's DJ Nihal starts the new football season with a bang this Saturday, introducing a new Desi flavour to the Premiership and promising big names like you've never heard them before. Nihal, on-air partner of Bobby Friction on BBC Radio 1, will bring a constant stream of footy news, star interviews, goal alerts and general mayhem to the Asian Network airwaves every Saturday throughout the season from 3.00 to 5.00pm in Kickin' Off with Nihal. (more)

New schedule for Asian Network
From Radio Today. Posted May 15 2006, 10.45pm
Nina Wadia, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen and Gordon Ramsay are all set to feature as guests in the first week of the BBC Asian Network's revamped new schedule. The Asian Network's brand new weekday schedule is fully in place from today. The new breakfast show Sonia Deol on the BBC Asian Network and the mid-morning phone in Anita Rani on the BBC Asian Network went on air a few weeks ago. From today the station offers listeners daily news programme The Wrap a fast paced news programme offering the day's top stories to an urban listenership. And new arts, entertainment and culture show Nikki Bedi on the BBC Asian Network starts this week, focusing on the best of British and world Asian culture in the arts and entertainment world. (more)

Asian Network gets £1m from BBC
From Press Gazette. Posted April 6 2006, 12.00am
The BBC’s Asian Network has had an investment of £1m to develop it into a fully-fledged national radio station and provide a boost to its news and current affairs output. (more)

New DJ for BBC Asian Network
From Radio Today. Posted February 18 2006, 2.13pm
Award-winning DJ Bobby Friction is to present a regular evening show on the BBC Asian Network from May. Bobby's new week-night show will be at the forefront of a new specialist-edged Asian Network, and represents a radical change in the station's approach to an increasingly multi-genred British-Asian music scene. (more)

Adil Ray to host Asian Drive
From Radio Today. Posted February 9 2006, 8.26am
Adil Ray, who currently hosts his own evening music show on BBC Asian Network, will become the new host of Drive (4.00-7.00pm weekdays) from 15 May 2006. Adil was a key player during the Asian Network's digital launch in 2002. He has presented numerous shows on television as well as radio and is currently the host of Desi DNA, BBC TWO's music, fashion and lifestyle show. He will broadcast the show from the BBC’s Mailbox building in Birmingham. (more)

Asian Network gets booster signal
From Media Guardian. Posted January 26 2006, 7.27am
8am: The BBC is investing an extra £1m in digital radio station Asian Network. By Julia Day. (more)

Husain Husaini appointed head of news for BBC Asian Network
From Journalism.co.uk. Posted January 1 2006, 2.38pm
Teamwork key to success, advises network news head (more)