Every year on February 13, World Radio Day celebrates one of the most reliable and long-lasting forms of communication. Long before podcasts and streaming platforms took over, radio shaped public opinion, hosted late-night confessions, and connected people across cities and continents.
Over time, Bollywood has beautifully reflected this cultural influence. From lively RJs to emotional late-night hosts, Hindi cinema has consistently portrayed radio as a powerful voice of connection and change. So, on World Radio Day 2026, let’s revisit the Bollywood stars who amplified the magic of radio on screen.
Salaam Namaste: Preity Zinta as the Bold and Modern RJ
To begin with, Salaam Namaste introduced audiences to Ambar “Amby” Malhotra, a confident radio jockey based in Australia. At a time when FM culture was rapidly growing in India, her character felt fresh and contemporary.
Moreover, Amby was witty, outspoken, and fiercely independent. She was not just a presenter; she was a companion to her listeners. Through her vibrant personality, the film captured the youthful and energetic spirit of modern radio.
Lage Raho Munna Bhai: Vidya Balan as the Voice of Hope
Meanwhile, in Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Vidya Balan’s Janvi became the emotional core of the story. As the host of a popular advice show, she unknowingly turned her radio platform into a channel for Gandhian philosophy.
In addition, her warm voice and optimistic outlook demonstrated how radio can spread awareness with simplicity. The studio transformed from a workplace into a space for meaningful change.
Sanjay Dutt: When Radio Sparked ‘Gandhigiri’
At the same time, although Sanjay Dutt’s Munna Bhai was not an RJ, the radio station played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative. His repeated calls to Janvi’s show popularised the idea of “Gandhigiri.”
As a result, radio emerged as a symbol of dialogue and reform. The film powerfully showed how a single broadcast can influence millions.
Guzaarish: Hrithik Roshan and the Intimacy of the Late-Night Voice
Similarly, in Guzaarish, Hrithik Roshan portrayed Ethan Mascarenhas, a former magician who becomes a radio jockey after a tragic accident.
Through his poetic late-night show, Ethan spoke openly about pain, resilience, and hope. Consequently, his voice became his greatest strength. The film highlighted radio’s unique ability to cross physical boundaries and connect directly with the heart.
Tumhari Sulu: Vidya Balan as the Relatable RJ Sulu
Finally, Vidya Balan returned to the world of radio in Tumhari Sulu as Sulochana “Sulu” Dubey. Unlike glamorous portrayals, Sulu was refreshingly relatable and warm.
Furthermore, as a late-night RJ, she connected with anonymous callers who shared their deepest fears and dreams. The film beautifully captured the intimacy of midnight radio. Ultimately, it reminded audiences that sometimes all one needs is a comforting voice on the other end.
Radio in Bollywood: More Than Just a Backdrop
In conclusion, from energetic FM studios to emotionally charged advice shows, Bollywood has consistently portrayed radio as more than just a profession. Instead, it has been shown as a lifeline of storytelling, emotion, and transformation.
Therefore, on World Radio Day 2026, these films stand as a tribute to the timeless charm of radio. Even in the digital age, radio continues to inform, inspire, and entertain — one powerful voice at a time.
