Varshan Sukhun, the host of Lotus FM, shares his experience of transforming from a reserved teenager into a recognized announcer and respected voice in the Bollywood entertainment industry. He told POST about his career, memorable interviews with celebrities, and plans to create his own film.
For over two decades, Sukhun worked at Lotus FM, helping people find their voice, tell stories, and build connections. However, the 46-year-old resident of Umhlanga admitted that behind his current confident demeanor was an introverted youth.
Sukhun, who is a radio host and master of ceremonies, is known for his deep knowledge of Bollywood. He shared his story, recounting the beginning of his journey.
Childhood
His interest in cinema and music began at home in Parkloek. Sukhun recalls watching films and discussing them with his parents and two siblings, which was part of the family culture. He noted that he had the ability to critique films from an early age, even though he himself was quiet and reserved. Nevertheless, his love for music and cinema helped him enter the world, and by the age of 13, he decided he wanted to make his own films.
While studying at Dr AD Lazarus Secondary School, he started working at the community radio station Radio Phoenix. He explained that radio attracted him. Even after obtaining a national diploma in television and film production upon leaving school, he continued to work at the station until it closed in 2001. A year later, he got a job at Lotus FM and has never looked back.
Initially, he worked the night shift from 9 PM to midnight. He liked this time because most people were resting after a long day, and he interacted a lot with listeners, getting to know them and allowing them to get to know him. He felt destined to work in radio.
Over time, someone advised him that he deserved more and should move up the career ladder. He was given his own show, 'Lunch with Varshan,' from noon to three in the afternoon. Initially, he mainly talked about Bollywood because he was young and knew little else; it was like a music and film show. Later, magazine format elements such as culture, art, and lifestyle were added to the program, forming the basis of the show. The program's name has since changed to 'The Lunch Break,' but they also now focus on theatre, public figures, businessmen, and the theme of empowerment. Additionally, on Saturday afternoons, he presents the 'Bollywood Billboard' ranking.
Sukhun noted that broadcasting came naturally to him. Thanks to his work at the community radio in his youth and his admiration for stars, he felt no nervousness or doubt when joining Lotus FM. People often said he was natural on air. He himself didn't like how he sounded on air, considering his voice flat and monotonous. However, over the years, he managed to change this and develop a stronger and more powerful voice.
Memorable Moments
One of the highlights was an interview with Bollywood actor Aamir Khan. Although it wasn't his first interview with a Bollywood star, it turned out to be special. At the time, many considered it impossible to talk to such a generous person. They prepared thoroughly for the interview, but when Khan arrived at the studio, they realized he preferred a relaxed conversation rather than just answering questions. This experience taught him a lot.
He also mentioned another special moment—meeting Bollywood actor Akshay Khanna in 2007, with whom he felt a similarity in character. Khanna came to South Africa to film the movie 'Race.' Upon meeting, Sukhun felt their personalities matched. He had always been an introvert, but as soon as the microphone was on, he became a different person. Khanna was the same: quiet, just a handshake and 'hello,' but on screen, he was a completely different person.
Over many years, Sukhun interviewed other Bollywood stars such as Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Shah Rukh Khan, and Arjun Rampal. Sukhun added that he also developed a special relationship with his listeners. He considers it a two-way relationship: he brings them joy, and that joy comes back. Recently, one listener wrote to him to inform him of her brother's death many years ago, and he played her a song that made her happy. She told him that this is why she connected with the show and with him. He also cares deeply for his listeners. If they write to him, he doesn't just reply with 'hello' or 'good morning'; he finds out how they are doing. He likes these relationships because they motivate him to keep doing his best.
Life Outside Radio
Besides his busy schedule, he wrote scripts for theatrical productions and has been hosting international stars such as Kumar Sanu, Sonu Nigam, Kunal Ganjawala, Alka Yagnik, and Udit Narayan in Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town since 2001. He also hosted events for Zee TV stars, and recently for singer Jubin Nautiyal, who performed in South Africa in July.
Among his achievements was presenting South African media on the international stage. He attended several International Indian Film Awards (IIFA) ceremonies in countries such as Singapore, Dubai, and Amsterdam. He will never forget how, after returning from IIFA in Singapore, the station's news bulletin announced that he had conducted the station's first international broadcast. Everyone, especially his parents, felt immense pride.
Recognition
In 2007, the Durban Theatre Group presented Sukhun with two 'Fools Awards' in recognition of his contribution to theatre. At that time, theatre was not a widely discussed field in Durban. However, they started talking about it and promoting theatrical artists on air. This was very well received, and he received an award for recognition.
In 2012, he received two awards for the 'Bollywood Billboard' show at the then MTN Radio Awards. In 2020, he received another award for this show at the SA Radio Awards. He believes that awards are confirmation of daily hard work. It also means a lot because often we just keep working and don't feel the need for recognition, but an award serves as a reminder that you are on the right track and that your achievements are valued.
Future Outlook and Advice
Sukhun's plan is to shoot his first film. It was a childhood dream and something he learned. Now that the film industry is booming in the country, he would like to do it in the near future, but he believes that slow and steady progress leads to success.
His advice to others is: 'Never let anyone convince you that you are unworthy of anything. Whatever your dreams may be, go out and achieve them, regardless of the difficulties you may face.'
In his free time, he enjoys playing padel, taking long walks, listening to calming music, and enjoying good food.
