From shy teenager to Lotus FM voice: Varshan Sookhun’s radio journey

Varshan Sookhun, a prominent radio presenter on Lotus FM, has spent more than two decades shaping the voices and stories of South African audiences. Known for his deep knowledge of Bollywood and his engaging presence on air, Sookhun recently reflected on his journey from an introverted teenager to a respected figure in the media industry. Born and raised in Umhlanga, Sookhun's early life was marked by a strong connection to films and music, which would eventually shape his professional path. As a child, Sookhun grew up in Parlock, where his family cultivated a tradition of watching and discussing films together. This environment nurtured his early interest in cinema and music, and by the age of 13, he began to dream of making his own movies. Despite his shyness during childhood, his passion for storytelling and critique of films allowed him to form meaningful connections with others. His academic pursuits led him to complete a national diploma in television and film production after finishing high school at Dr AD Lazarus Secondary School. Sookhun's entry into the broadcasting world began through his involvement with community radio. He started working at Radio Phoenix, a local station, where he found a sense of purpose and belonging. After graduating, he continued his work at the station until its closure in 2001. The following year, he secured a position at Lotus FM, marking the beginning of a long and successful career. Initially assigned to the night shift, from 9 p.m. to midnight, Sookhun discovered a unique rhythm to his work. The late-night hours offered a chance to engage with listeners who were winding down after their day, allowing him to build personal connections and gain insights into their lives. His confidence on air grew steadily, leading to opportunities that expanded his role at Lotus FM. Soon after joining, he was given his own show, “Lunch with Varshan,” which aired from midday to 3 p.m. Initially focused on Bollywood, the show evolved to include a broader range of topics, including lifestyle, culture, and art. Over time, the show was renamed “The Lunch Break,” continuing to feature discussions with notable figures from various fields. Among these segments was “The Bollywood Billboard,” a weekly top ten chart show that ran on Saturdays. Sookhun described his transition from a hesitant newcomer to a confident broadcaster as a gradual process. While he initially felt self-conscious about his voice, he dedicated himself to improving his delivery. Through practice and experience, he developed a more dynamic and expressive speaking style that resonated with his audience. His ability to connect with listeners and articulate complex ideas with clarity earned him recognition within the industry. One of the highlights of Sookhun's career was a notable interview with Bollywood actor Aamir Khan. Though this was not his first encounter with a major star, the conversation proved to be a defining moment. Khan, known for his humility and approachability, engaged in a relaxed and insightful dialogue, offering Sookhun valuable lessons about authenticity and communication. Another cherished memory was meeting Akshay Kumar, with whom Sookhun felt a mutual understanding due to their similar personalities, both reserved yet capable of transforming into vibrant public personas when required. Throughout his career, Sookhun has remained committed to using his platform to amplify diverse voices and promote cultural exchange. His journey from a quiet teenager to a celebrated radio host underscores the transformative power of perseverance and passion. As he continues to explore new ventures, including filmmaking, his story serves as a testament to the potential for growth and impact in the media landscape.