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Tag: Sunil Kumaran

  • BIG FM brings Ramayana to life with AI twist

    BIG FM brings Ramayana to life with AI twist

    MUMBAI: What happens when age-old wisdom meets artificial intelligence? You get a Ramayana retelling fit for the reel world. BIG FM, one of India’s leading radio networks, has launched ‘BIG Ramayana’, an AI-powered audio-video series that brings the timeless legend of Lord Ram to today’s screens and streams. Narrated by acclaimed actor Saurabh Raaj Jain, the series transforms the classic epic into bite-sized, visually rich reels, a perfect blend of mythology and modernity.

    The first episode premiered on 20 October 2025, alongside the launch of the BIG Ramayana Anthem, a soulful ode to dharma, devotion, and destiny. Designed for digital-first audiences, the project combines AI-enhanced reels, audio dramas, podcasts, celebrity capsules, RJ specials, and trivia segments, giving the Ramayana a dynamic, cross-platform presence.

    “At BIG FM, storytelling is in our DNA,” said BIG FM CEO Sunil Kumaran. “BIG Ramayana represents our belief that when tradition meets innovation, it creates something powerful and lasting. It’s about connecting today’s youth to stories that have defined generations.”

    Echoing the sentiment, chief marketing & product officer Atul Razdan added, “We wanted to make mythology matter again for Gen Z. With AI and creative storytelling, BIG Ramayana lets audiences rediscover these timeless tales in formats they truly relate to.”

    Listeners can catch AI-enhanced episodes on BIG FM’s social media platforms and tune in to radio broadcasts Monday to Friday at 8 am and 9 pm. The show also streams on Spotify, JioSaavn, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Prime Music, and Gaana, proving that even an ancient epic can find its rhythm in a new digital dhun.

     

  • Big FM tunes into the power of sun with record-breaking solar campaign

    Big FM tunes into the power of sun with record-breaking solar campaign

    MUMBAI: When the sun comes up, Big FM doesn’t just play music, it powers it. The radio giant, in partnership with the Adani Group, rolled out its ambitious ‘Story of Suraj’ campaign, turning solar energy into a cultural talking point across India. The 360-degree initiative spanned 39 cities, blending radio, digital, and on-ground activations. Its opening act? A nationwide content roadblock introducing every listener to Suraj Bhaiya’s story. With 80 RJs creating over 250 content pieces, the campaign reached an impressive 2.91 crore listeners on-air. Online, it struck another chord, clocking 21 million plus digital impressions across Big Live and RJ social handles.

    But the real showstopper came when Big FM set a world record with the first-ever dual-city solar-powered live broadcast, running studios in Delhi and Pune entirely on solar energy no grid, no diesel. The feat earned spots in both the Asia Book of Records and the India Book of Records, putting sustainability firmly in the spotlight.

    The campaign didn’t stop at the airwaves. Listeners tuned into stories of solar-powered villages, practical tips, and pledge walls across Delhi, Pune, Modhera, Indore and Lucknow, while the Solar Rooftop Studio Shift showcased the lives of real solar beneficiaries. The crescendo came from Modhera Gram Panchayat, India’s first fully solar-powered village, where Big FM went live to give audiences a glimpse of a cleaner, greener future.

    As Big FM’s CEO Sunil Kumaran summed up: “When purpose meets innovation, the impact can extend far beyond the airwaves.” And with ‘Story of Suraj’, the network proved that sustainability can be as powerful as any song on the charts.

  • Big Fm turns up the volume with 9 new stations, now India’s No.1 network

    Big Fm turns up the volume with 9 new stations, now India’s No.1 network

    MUMBAI: Radio just got a little louder and a lot bigger. Big Fm, which has long been a household name for music and entertainment, has officially tuned itself into the country’s largest single-brand radio network with a whopping 67 stations. The milestone comes with the addition of nine new stations across Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, set to go live in the next 6–9 months.

    This expansion amplifies BIG’s dominance in the Hindi heartland, taking its tally to 34 stations across Northern and Central India, where it already enjoys market leadership and hyperlocal clout.

    Sapphire Media Limited chairman Sahil Mangla said the achievement is both a win and a weight: “Becoming India’s largest radio network is an achievement, but also a responsibility. With Big Live and Big Ooh already launched, we’re looking forward to shaping the future of audio entertainment with original content, tech and AI integration.”

    Echoing the sentiment, CEO Sunil Kumaran noted that Big’s philosophy of “Dhun Badal Ke Toh Dekho” continues to guide its growth. “With new stations, we’re not just expanding coverage but also building stronger teams, creating content that clicks with diverse communities, and opening fresh opportunities for advertisers,” he said.

    With radio listenership still strong across India’s metros and smaller towns, Big Fm’s expansion ensures it doesn’t just play the hits, it stays in tune with the cultural pulse of the nation.

  • Big FM names Sunil Kumaran chief executive post-Abe Thomas departure

    Big FM names Sunil Kumaran chief executive post-Abe Thomas departure

    MUMBAI: Big FM has handed the reins to Sunil Kumaran, elevating the long-time chief operating officer to chief executive after the exit of Abe Thomas, who has helmed the station since 2018. Kumaran, a 14-year veteran of the network and with over 25 years in media and communications, has been tasked with driving the Sapphire Media-owned broadcaster’s next phase of growth.

    Chairman Sahil Mangla hailed Thomas’s “visionary leadership” and called Kumaran the “ideal choice” to steer the brand forward. Kumaran said his mission was to reimagine radio as a “true multimedia force,” blending content, data and tech-led storytelling to create a “future-ready” brand that connects with audiences, shapes culture and delivers for partners.

    The appointment underscores Big FM’s ambition to stay ahead in India’s fast-evolving audio entertainment market.

  • Big FM’s Marathi masala moment celebrates cinema with star-studded flair

    Big FM’s Marathi masala moment celebrates cinema with star-studded flair

    MUMBAI: Big FM turned up the volume on Marathi pride with a glitzy finale to Big Marathi Bioscope with Subodh Bhave, marking the end of its third season with an unforgettable on-ground celebration in Pune. From teary tributes to toe-tapping tunes, the evening paid a vibrant homage to the spirit, legacy and cultural depth of Marathi cinema.

    Hosted by the ever-charismatic Subodh Bhave, the event brought together some of the industry’s finest including Swapnil Joshi, Sayali Sanjeev, Sumeet Raghavan, Santosh Juvekar, Shilpa Tulaskar, and Atharva Sudame offering fans a front-row seat to laughter, nostalgia and heartfelt camaraderie.

    The grand finale wasn’t just a curtain call, it was a curtain rise on memories. Audiences were treated to emotional homages to legends like Sudhir Phadke and Asha Bhosale, followed by an explosive Ajay–Atul mashup that turned the gathering into a dance floor.

    Sharing his thoughts Big FM COO Sunil Kumaran said, “Our audiences have always trusted us to present exceptional content and BIG Marathi Bioscope with Subodh Bhave has been a true testament of that endeavor. With each season, BIG FM has built a deeper bond with listeners who have an unwavering love for Marathi cinema. As we reach the grand finale of Season 3, it’s clear that the show has become a cherished part of listeners’ lives, celebrating the rich legacy of Marathi films. Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue strengthening this relationship and creating even more memorable experiences in the seasons to come.”

    “Marathi cinema is my passion and what keeps me deeply connected to it is the love and support of my audience. Through the on-ground event, we have had the chance to interact directly with our listeners, making the experience even more personal and meaningful. With the success of this season, I’m confident that the affection and connection we’ve built will continue to grow in the seasons ahead.” said actor and host Subodh Bhave.

    Presented by Lokmanya Multipurpose Co-op Society Ltd and supported by partners like Deshpande Eye Hospital & Laser Centre and B.U. Bhandari, the show’s third season finale was more than just entertainment, it was a tribute, a party, and a promise rolled into one.

    With the finale set to air on Saam TV, fans across Maharashtra can relive the magic. As Big FM continues to echo through the airwaves, it’s clear Marathi cinema’s most soulful stories aren’t just on screen, they’re in the hearts of the listeners too.

  • Big FM hits the airwaves as official radio partner for Hockey India League 2024-25

    Big FM hits the airwaves as official radio partner for Hockey India League 2024-25

    Mumbai: It’s a sound decision. The Hockey India League (HIL) has got into bed with  Big FM for the 2024-25 season as the official radio partner. This partnership seeks to connect hockey with millions of fans and amplify the message of #IndiaKaGame throughout the nation.

    A press release states that the HIL  kicks off on 28 December 2024, featuring an exciting lineup of eight men’s teams and four women’s teams competing in Rourkela and Ranchi. Notably, this season also marks the debut of the Women’s Hockey India League, reinforcing Hockey India’s commitment to inclusivity and the empowerment of women in sports.

    BIG FM COO Sunil Kumaran highlighted that hockey holds a special place in the hearts of millions. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to spreading awareness about the sport’s legacy and significance. Together, we aim to shine a spotlight on hockey’s incredible journey and inspire a deeper appreciation for the sport across the country,” he said.

    HIL governing committee chairperson Dilip Tirkey said, “Radio has a unique ability to connect with people in the remotest corners of the country, making it the perfect medium to promote hockey. With BIG FM’s engaging content and nationwide reach, we aim to make hockey a household conversation. This partnership will spark excitement across India and bring more fans closer to IndiaKaGame. Together, we’re confident of taking the Hockey India League to new heights of popularity.”

    HIL governing committee member Bhola Nath Singh added, “BIG FM’s captivating narrative style and broad reach make it an ideal partner to grow hockey’s fanbase. Through this association, we aim to unite the country in support of IndiaKaGame and inspire millions to cheer for our national sport.”

    With Big FM listeners can stay tuned to every match and cheer for their favourite teams and players.

     

     

    All information about the Hockey India League can also be found on the newly launched website: https://hockeyindialeague.com/

  • Big FM successfully concludes ‘Bano India Ke Angdaata’ campaign

    Big FM successfully concludes ‘Bano India Ke Angdaata’ campaign

    Mumbai: Big FM has triumphantly concluded its transformative campaign ‘Bano India Ke Angdaata’, becoming the first radio network to champion organ donation on a national scale. Reaching over 200,000 individuals, the initiative inspired thousands to pledge their support, spreading a powerful message of hope and compassion across the country.

    At the heart of the campaign were Big FM RJs, including RJ Vrajesh Hirjee, RJ Akriti, RJ Sangram, and others, who not only championed the cause but also pledged to become organ donors themselves. Their efforts were amplified by Indian cinema stars like Rajkummar Rao, Kartik Aaryan, Sonakshi Sinha, and Sunny Leone, along with industry icons such as Farah Khan, Palak Muchhal, and Ankur Warikoo.

    Eminent leaders, including minister of state for health & family welfare, Anupriya Patel and Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant, lent their support, alongside the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO). The campaign also featured contributions from inspiring figures like Anil Srivatsa, a double gold medallist at the World Transplant Games, and ORGAN India, CEO, Sunayana Singh.

    Key Highlights:

    . Anthem Launch: The campaign introduced ‘Tu Farishta’, composed and sung by Aaman Trikha, to evoke emotional resonance.

    . Collaborations: Partnered with NOTTO, athletes, and state-level organ donation organisations for regional impact.

    . Innovative Initiatives: Live studio setups in metro trains and e-wellness programs reinforced the message.

    . Stories of Impact: Heartfelt interviews with donor families and recipients showcased the life-changing potential of organ donation.

    Big FM, COO, Sunil Kumaran expressed, “At BIG FM, we take pride in being the first radio network to champion the cause of organ donation on a national scale, inspiring meaningful conversations. This campaign transcends mere awareness, striving to ignite a movement among people to take decisive action towards organ donation. The overwhelming response, with thousands pledging their support and the campaign’s extensive reach nationwide, reaffirms our unwavering commitment towards bringing about a positive change.”

    The campaign’s success underscores BIG FM’s unwavering commitment to fostering positive societal change through impactful initiatives.

     

  • Create, engage, repeat: The new era of audience connection

    Create, engage, repeat: The new era of audience connection

    Mumbai: In a world inundated with content, standing out requires more than just creativity; it demands genuine engagement. India has emerged as a global hub for content creation and consumption, boasting over 80 million creators, including influencers, bloggers, YouTubers and podcasters. This dynamic ecosystem is fueled by more than 500 million active social media users, driving an explosion of user-generated content across platforms. However, in a landscape where YouTube alone sees 400 hours of content uploaded every minute, the real challenge is ensuring meaningful engagement.

    With the shift in the digital ecosystem, today the social media platforms have a thriving creator ecosystem tuned to enhance storytelling for maximum reach. The rise of hyperlocal micro-influencers has ushered in a new era of highly targeted brand marketing, allowing brands to connect with niche audiences like never before. To truly stand out and build an engaging narrative, creators must prioritize authenticity, craft impactful storytelling and explore new platforms and strategies.

    Radio offers immense potential as a platform for influencer marketing. With its deep-rooted connection to listeners and its unique ability to create intimacy through storytelling, radio can seamlessly integrate influencers into its programming. When influencers share personal anecdotes, recommendations, or brand experiences in an authentic, conversational style, the result is campaigns that feel more genuine and relatable. Additionally, with the growing popularity of podcasts and online radio streaming, influencers have even more opportunities to engage with targeted audiences in a dynamic and interactive way.

    Another strategic approach that sees rapid growth is cohort marketing, that allows brands to connect with segmented audience groups based on shared interests, behaviors, or demographics. This approach helps brands focus on their value proposition for each group, offering targeted tools and enablement to enhance audience engagement. For instance, beauty brands can target the listeners by focusing on topics like skincare and makeup, using influencers to deliver tailored content for each theme. This approach creates campaigns that deeply resonate with listeners, driving higher engagement and fostering long-term brand loyalty.

    Creators are more than just content producers; they are key partners and revenue drivers. Cohort marketing empowers influencers with essential support, recognition and tools to amplify their influence, positioning them as vital contributors to a brand’s success. This approach enhances their ability to effectively reach audiences and create a lasting impact. By investing in creators and recognizing their value, brands can strengthen relationships with both their audiences and the creators. Utilising cohort marketing allows brands to discover new ways to reach their target market, delivering personalized content that fosters deeper engagement, builds loyalty and drives success in today’s competitive media landscape.

    At Big Fm, we’ve amplified the potential of radio by integrating micro, macro and nano influencers into our campaigns, effectively bridging traditional broadcasting with digital interaction. By leveraging social media and digital platforms, we connect with diverse audiences across all age groups, merging the authenticity of radio with the reach and relatability of influencer marketing. This synergy enables us to craft campaigns that resonate on a personal level while making a lasting impact, reaffirming radio’s relevance as a dynamic and influential medium.

  • Big Fm launches third season of ‘Super Duper Dhamaka’ with Sonakshi Sinha

    Big Fm launches third season of ‘Super Duper Dhamaka’ with Sonakshi Sinha

    Mumbai: With the festival of Diwali around the corner, shopping fervour is at its peak across the country. Making the festivities extra special, Big Fm is back with the third season of its distinctive campaign Super Duper Dhamaka. This season, joining in the celebrations is Bollywood star Sonakshi Sinha, who is the face of the campaign.

    Aimed to provide small-scale retailers with a platform that boosts their reach and drives real sales, the campaign makes shopping a fun and rewarding experience for consumers. Super Duper Dhamaka not only highlights the uniqueness of local shopping but also transforms it into a vibrant celebration with a touch of Bollywood magic. The festive period is a great time for consumers to make the most of significant deals that retailers have to offer.

    Big Fm COO Sunil Kumaran shared, “After the great success of the first two seasons, we are excited to launch Season 3 of Super Duper Dhamaka with Sonakshi Sinha. Our endeavour with the campaign has always been to provide small scale retailers with a powerful platform to extend their reach and boost sales, while bringing joy and great deals to shoppers. Given Sonakshi Sinha’s incredible influence, we are happy to have her onboard to support this cause and we look forward to amazing response this festive season. Furthermore, this initiative aligns with BIG FM’s commitment to staying deeply rooted in local communities, ensuring we not only engage with our listeners but also preserve the authenticity of their shopping experiences.”

    Speaking about the association, Sonakshi Sinha said, “I am thrilled to join hands with BIG FM for their innovative campaign Super Duper Dhamaka Season 3 that not only supports local retailers but also brings great deals to shoppers during the festive season. Diwali is all about celebration and this campaign perfectly captures that spirit by ensuring great deals for shoppers and ensures better footfall for local retailers. The idea of empowering local businesses is something that I am excited to extend my support to.”

  • Big FM unveils Season 3 of Big Green Durga with Aparajita Adhya for eco-friendly celebrations

    Big FM unveils Season 3 of Big Green Durga with Aparajita Adhya for eco-friendly celebrations

    Mumbai: BIG FM, a radio network, launched its highly anticipated ‘BIG Green Durga’ campaign at a press conference on 19 September at The Astor, Kolkata.  At the event, renowned actress Aparajita Adhya was announced as the ambassador of the campaign, kicking off this year’s eco-friendly initiative aimed at inspiring people to work towards a cleaner and greener city. She revealed the details of the campaign, expressing her strong support for the initiative. Aparajita emphasized the importance of sustainability during Durga Puja and urged the community to engage in the campaign’s efforts actively.

    This year, ‘BIG Green Durga’ takes a unique approach to tackling plastic pollution, focusing on recycling through a community-driven plastic collection drive. Held across neighbourhoods, colleges and markets, the collected waste will be used to create an upcycled Durga idol, which will be donated to a government or corporate facility after the puja symbolizing sustainability. This year’s campaign also highlights female Dhaakis, challenging traditional norms by featuring women drummers during the festivities. Additionally, Patachitra storytelling, a modern twist on the ancient scroll-based art form, will be narrated by a Patachitra artist and amplified through BIG FM’s platforms.

    Sharing her excitement, Aparajita Adhya, shared, “I am truly honoured to be part of BIG FM’s ‘BIG Green Durga’ campaign. I have always been passionate about eco-friendly practices and this initiative deeply resonates with me. Collecting plastic waste from the community and transforming it into a Durga idol is truly inspiring. This campaign goes beyond raising awareness—it is about taking meaningful action. I commend the BIG FM team for their dedication and the sponsors for supporting such an important cause. Together, let us work toward a greener, cleaner future and celebrate Durga Puja responsibly.”

    Adding to it, BIG FM COO Sunil Kumaran said, “At BIG FM, our philosophy has always centred around creating a positive impact through meaningful initiatives that resonate with our listeners. BIG Green Durga is a natural extension of this belief, encouraging communities to embrace sustainability while celebrating our heritage.

    Following the success of the past two seasons, which made significant strides in promoting eco-friendly practices, we are excited to continue the momentum with the third season of BIG Green Durga. We are also proud to have Aparajita Adhya as the face of this year’s campaign, along with the support of our esteemed sponsors, who have all come together to make this initiative a success.”

    Each year, the BIG Green Durga campaign selects a prominent face to embody the spirit of ‘Shakti,’ with past ambassadors including Rituparna Sengupta in the first season and Priyanka Sarkar in the second. This year, with Aparajita Adhya, BIG FM aims to raise awareness and inspire communities to participate in the campaign’s eco-friendly initiatives. The campaign will culminate with a grand Durga Puja celebration from October 9 to 13 at the Kund Area, Salt Lake City Centre, one of Kolkata’s most vibrant cultural hubs. The highlight of the festivities will be an upcycled Durga idol, symbolizing the campaign’s commitment to sustainability and responsible celebrations.

    Major sponsors, including Meghbela Broadband as the Presenting Sponsor, Bosumati Basmati Rice as the co-powered by sponsor, Magic Moments Verve Music Studio as the Celebration Partner, XUV 400 as the Driven By Partner, and Suzuki Avenis as the Ride Partner, took the stage to pledge their support, underscoring a shared commitment to fostering an eco-friendlier festive season. Additionally, Duta Guro Masala, Senco Gold and Diamonds, Titan Eye+ and Damro joined as Associate sponsors, with The Astor as the Hospitality Partner and Irus and Image Eyewear as the Gift Partner. Shalimar Avida Agarbatti was also on board as the Prayer Partner along with Allen Healthcare as a Skincare Partner. The event gave key partners and sponsors a platform to discuss their contributions to the cause, followed by an interactive session where guests explored the themes of sustainability and community-driven change in greater depth.

    BIG FM’s mission to make this Durga Puja a celebration of sustainability and inclusivity!