92.7 Big FM
92.7 Big FM is one of India's largest private FM radio networks, broadcasting primarily on the 92.7 MHz frequency across 58 stations that reach over 34 crore listeners in more than 1,200 towns and 50,000 villages nationwide.[1] Launched in September 2006 by Reliance Broadcast Network Limited as one of the country's private FM broadcasters, it quickly expanded to become a dominant player in the radio industry, emphasizing retro music, local content, and interactive programming under its signature tagline "Dhun Badal Ke Toh Dekho" (Change the Tune and See).[2][3] Originally owned by the Reliance group, the network underwent significant growth, adding stations progressively and establishing a reputation for innovative campaigns and community engagement initiatives that blend entertainment with social impact.[4] In May 2025, Sapphire Media Limited acquired 92.7 Big FM from Reliance Broadcast Network, marking a pivotal shift in ownership and enabling further expansion, including the announcement of nine new stations in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand in August 2025, expected to become operational in early 2026.[5][6] The network's programming features a diverse lineup, including music shows, talk programs, and special segments on health, spirituality, and local culture, hosted by popular radio jockeys (RJs) to foster listener connection and drive behavioral change through audio storytelling.[7] With its extensive footprint and focus on accessible, relatable content, 92.7 Big FM continues to lead the Indian radio landscape, adapting to digital platforms while maintaining its core FM presence.[8]Overview
Ownership and Launch
92.7 Big FM was launched in September 2006 by Reliance Broadcast Network Limited, a subsidiary of the Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group led by industrialist Anil Ambani.[2] The station debuted with its inaugural broadcasts in key cities such as Delhi and Hyderabad, marking Reliance's entry into the private FM radio sector in India.[3] From its inception, 92.7 Big FM focused on Hindi film music and Bollywood hits, targeting urban and semi-urban audiences with a mix of contemporary and popular tracks to appeal to a broad demographic.[9] It standardized its broadcasting frequency at 92.7 MHz across all stations to create a unified national identity.[2] In January 2019, the network repositioned with the tagline "Dhun Badal Ke Toh Dekho" (Change the Tune and See), emphasizing transformative audio experiences. In recent years, following financial challenges at Reliance Broadcast Network, the network underwent a significant ownership change. Sapphire Media Limited acquired 92.7 Big FM through the corporate insolvency resolution process, with the transaction completed in May 2025, integrating it into the Sapphire Media Group.[1] This shift marked the end of Reliance's control and positioned the station under new management aimed at revitalizing its operations.[10]Network Reach and Audience
92.7 Big FM operates 58 stations across 24 states in India, providing coverage to over 1,200 towns and 50,000 villages nationwide, with accessibility to over 340 million Indians.[1] In August 2025, the network announced plans to expand to 67 stations by adding nine new ones in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, expected to become operational within 6-9 months.[11] This extensive footprint positions it as one of the country's largest radio networks, emphasizing pan-Indian penetration beyond major urban centers. The station's target audience consists primarily of urban and semi-urban Hindi-speaking listeners aged 18-45, who are drawn to its programming centered on Bollywood music, celebrity interviews, and interactive entertainment formats designed to resonate with youthful, dynamic lifestyles. This demographic focus allows Big FM to connect with a vibrant listener base seeking relatable, high-energy content amid daily routines.[12] Broadcasting in multiple languages including Hindi and various regional ones, Big FM serves diverse regions spanning metros like Mumbai and Delhi to smaller cities, adapting content to local tastes while maintaining a core emphasis on Hindi and regional flavors to broaden its appeal across cultural divides. Listener engagement is robust, with the network achieving significant daily listenership and market shares in key urban markets. These metrics highlight Big FM's ability to sustain strong audience retention through targeted shows and music curation.History
Founding and Early Development
92.7 Big FM was launched by Adlabs Films Limited, a subsidiary of the Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, with its inaugural station going on air in Delhi on September 25, 2006.[13] The station quickly expanded to other major metropolitan areas, including Mumbai on November 14, 2006, followed by launches in Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad later that year, marking an aggressive initial rollout in India's key urban centers.[14] By early 2007, the network pursued rapid expansion, particularly in northern India, with new stations in cities such as Chandigarh (February 2007), Hissar (March 2007), Bareilly (March 2007), Amritsar (August 2007), and Patiala (August 2007), aiming to establish a pan-India presence through a unified 92.7 MHz frequency.[15] This phase saw the network grow to 12 stations by February 2007, supported by an investment of Rs 400 crore to operationalize up to 45 licensed stations across diverse regions.[16][13] Early programming emphasized interactive Hindi content tailored for urban listeners aged 20-45, featuring adult contemporary music, Bollywood tracks, and RJ-driven shows that encouraged caller participation and local relevance to build listener engagement.[13][17] Stations incorporated upbeat, entertaining formats with credible radio jockeys hosting segments on music requests, contests, and light-hearted discussions, positioning the network as a vibrant entertainment hub in the competitive FM landscape.[2] Key milestones included reaching 45 cities by 2009, extending coverage to over 1,000 towns and 50,000 villages, and achieving a weekly listenership of approximately 200 million, which solidified Big FM's status as India's largest private FM network during its formative years.[18][19] This growth phase overcame initial challenges like regulatory bidding and infrastructure setup, enabling the station to capture significant market share through consistent expansion and localized content strategies.[20]Brand Repositioning and Revamps
In January 2019, 92.7 Big FM underwent a significant relaunch, introducing the positioning philosophy "Dhun Badal Ke Toh Dekho," which translates to encouraging listeners to change their perspective through music and stories to foster positive transformation.[21] This revamp marked the network's first major brand overhaul since its 2006 inception, shifting from pure entertainment to a role as a "Thought Inspirer" by integrating inspirational narratives that promote breaking social stereotypes.[21] The initiative featured a brand anthem composed by Ravi Singhal and sung by Sonu Nigam, designed to evoke a sense of renewal and motivation.[21] Accompanying this was the #IAmNotSorry campaign, which highlighted real-life stories of individuals challenging norms, thereby emphasizing content that inspires life changes beyond mere amusement.[21] This 2019 repositioning realigned the station's programming with audience-tested music selections and credible radio jockeys, aiming to reposition Big FM as a meaningful and purposeful medium.[21] Listener perception evolved accordingly, with the network perceived as more relevant and impactful, moving away from traditional radio entertainment toward motivational programming that resonates on a deeper emotional level.[21] Surveys and feedback indicated increased engagement, as the philosophy encouraged audiences to view music not just as diversion but as a catalyst for personal growth and societal reflection.[21] In November 2024, Big FM executed another revamp, refreshing its content strategy while retaining the core "Dhun Badal Ke Toh Dekho" ideology but infusing it with a contemporary focus on inclusivity and digital integration.[22] A new rendition of the brand anthem, performed by Sushant Divgikar, adopted an upbeat and vibrant tone to symbolize embracing diverse possibilities through music, aligning with evolving audience preferences for personalized and interactive experiences.[22] This update incorporated technology-enabled elements, such as insight-driven playlists and multi-media formats, alongside the Big Creators Club initiative, which connects brands with diverse influencers and storytellers from various regions to promote broader representation.[22] The 2024 changes further enhanced listener perception by deepening emotional connections and fostering brand affinity, positioning Big FM as a forward-thinking platform that blends traditional radio with digital interactivity for greater relevance in a multi-platform era.[22] Early indicators showed improved audience retention, as the revamp's emphasis on inclusivity resonated with younger demographics seeking content that mirrors diverse identities and lifestyles.[22]Ownership Transition and Recent Expansion
In May 2025, Sapphire Media Limited acquired 92.7 Big FM from Reliance Broadcast Network Limited through an insolvency resolution process, marking a significant ownership change.[5] This acquisition facilitated further growth, with the addition of nine new stations in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand by August 2025, bringing the total to 67 stations and solidifying its position as India's largest private FM network.[6]Programming
Signature Shows and Properties
92.7 Big FM's flagship program Suhaana Safar, hosted by actor Annu Kapoor, features nostalgic storytelling centered on behind-the-scenes anecdotes from classic Bollywood films and the golden era of Indian cinema, often weaving in travel-themed narratives to evoke emotional journeys for listeners.[23] Launched in 2013, the show airs weekdays and has become a cornerstone of the station's programming, earning acclaim for its evocative format that revives cinematic memories through Kapoor's narration.[24] By 2016, it had completed three successful years, introducing segments like Rishta Pakka Hai to engage audiences further with interactive elements.[25] Another prominent property is Yaadon Ka Idiot Box, hosted by storyteller Neelesh Misra, which delivers audio dramas and personal memory-based narratives exploring themes from urban life to rural experiences.[26] Debuting in 2011, the show has run multiple seasons, with Season 5 launching in 2018 to continue its tradition of innovative radio storytelling that has captivated millions through emotional, slice-of-life tales.[27] Its format emphasizes immersive audio experiences, drawing from Misra's repertoire of over a thousand stories, and has been adapted into books compiling key episodes from early seasons.[28] The interactive series Dhun Badal Ke Toh Dekho spans three seasons, each hosted by a prominent figure to spark discussions on social issues through engaging conversations and music. Season 1, launched in 2019 with actress Vidya Balan, addressed topics like women's empowerment and environmental concerns, featuring Balan's debut rap video to amplify its message of societal change.[29] Season 2 in 2021 partnered with the Isha Foundation and was hosted by spiritual leader Sadhguru, focusing on wellness and mindfulness to encourage listeners to "change their tune" on personal growth.[30] Season 3, debuting in 2024 with actor Pankaj Tripathi, marked his radio hosting debut and continued the theme of transformative dialogues, blending celebrity insights with audience participation.[31] Among other key properties, BIG Antakshari is a lively singing contest revived in multiple seasons, with Season 1 in 2016 featuring singer Kanika Kapoor as a mentor to guide participants through Bollywood song battles, fostering community engagement via on-air competitions.[32] BIG Golden Voice, an on-air singing talent hunt sponsored by Benadryl in later seasons, has run since at least 2014, scouting undiscovered vocalists across India with auditions and live performances judged by industry experts like Anu Malik, celebrating diverse musical styles from folk to contemporary.[33] Starting with Season 3 in 2015, it expanded internationally by inviting participants from countries such as the US, Canada, UAE, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, honoring winners with professional opportunities and highlighting India's rich singing heritage.[34] Super Duper Dhamaka, a festive promotional series, boosts local retail during holidays like Diwali through celebrity-driven campaigns. Season 1 featured actor Govinda, Season 2 starred Sonu Sood, Season 3 in 2024 brought in Sonakshi Sinha, and Season 4 in 2025 featured Bobby Deol, all creating buzz with interactive contests and prizes, aiming to drive footfall to small businesses nationwide.[35] The format combines celebrity endorsements with listener giveaways, achieving significant reach in urban and semi-urban markets.[36]Radio Jockeys and Hosts
92.7 Big FM features a diverse roster of radio jockeys (RJs) and hosts who play pivotal roles in shaping the network's vibrant identity through their unique styles, engaging personalities, and ability to connect with audiences across India. Prominent figures like RJ Balaji have brought comedy and youth appeal to the airwaves, leveraging humor to build a massive following during his tenure hosting evening segments that resonated nationally.[37] Similarly, Annu Kapoor contributes narrative depth with his storytelling prowess, drawing listeners into nostalgic journeys that highlight Bollywood's golden era.[38] Vrajesh Hirjee adds entertainment value through lively interactions, while RJ Abhilash energizes morning drives with dynamic energy, and RJ Rani focuses on women-centric content that fosters empowerment and relatability. The network's RJs are selected through a distinctive process known as the Big RJ Hunt, an annual initiative launched in various cities to identify talent via auditions emphasizing voice modulation, spontaneity, and audience engagement skills. Shortlisted candidates undergo specialized training in broadcasting techniques, scriptwriting, and on-air presentation before being offered roles to host shows.[39] This rigorous selection ensures hosts align with Big FM's emphasis on authentic, localized content that builds long-term listener connections. Big FM's RJs significantly enhance listener loyalty by incorporating personalized interactions, such as live call-ins, song dedications, and community shoutouts, which create a sense of intimacy and belonging among audiences.[40] These elements have helped cultivate dedicated followings, with hosts like RJ Shruti noted for their humane approach that rejuvenates listeners daily.[40]Notable Hosts
The following table highlights 13 prominent RJs and hosts associated with 92.7 Big FM, focusing on their key contributions and career highlights within the network:| Host Name | Role and Highlights |
|---|---|
| RJ Balaji | Pioneered comedy-driven youth programming; hosted evening shows that gained national acclaim for prank calls and relatable humor, earning industry awards for social impact.[37] |
| Annu Kapoor | Narrative host for nostalgic Bollywood stories; his soothing voice and behind-the-scenes anecdotes have made shows like Suhaana Safar a listener favorite since launch.[38] |
| RJ Abhilash | Morning drive specialist; known for innovative presentations and award-winning creativity, boosting early-morning listenership through energetic, interactive segments.[41] |
| Neelesh Misra | Storytelling narrator; elevated radio with literary-infused episodes in Yaadon Ka Idiot Box, blending journalism and fiction to engage urban audiences.[42] |
| Bhawana Somaaya | Entertainment editor and film expert; provides insightful Bollywood commentary, appointed in 2014 to curate content that deepens cultural connections for listeners.[43] |
| Kamini Khanna | Astrology and wellness host; delivers daily spiritual guidance in Seher, combining horoscopes with life advice to start mornings on an uplifting note since 2013.[44] |
| Richa Anirudh | Social issues anchor; hosted Dilli Meri Jaan to spotlight civic concerns, using radio to drive community change and earning recognition as a motivational speaker.[45] |
| RJ Shruti (Pat Pat Pataki Shruti) | Breakfast show host; focuses on holistic rejuvenation with daily life tips, praised for authentic interactions that foster emotional bonds with diverse listeners.[40] |
| RJ Koushik | Breakfast jockey in regional markets like Kolkata; integrates local flavors such as Rabindra Sangeet, enhancing cultural relevance and morning routine appeal.[46] |
| Vrajesh Hirjee | Entertainment host; brings Bollywood flair to prime-time slots, contributing to campaigns on health and social awareness through engaging dialogues.[47] |
| RJ Rani | Women-centric programming lead; empowers female listeners via relatable discussions, building a niche community through inclusive and motivational content.[48] |
| RJ Sangram | Interactive host; drives listener participation in live events and challenges, strengthening engagement in urban centers like Pune.[49] |
| RJ Sahil | Evening all-rounder in Mumbai; excels in celebrity interviews and street interactions, creating buzz around music and pop culture for young demographics.[50] |
Operations
Station Locations and Coverage
92.7 Big FM operates a network of 53 stations across India, all broadcasting on the 92.7 MHz frequency in the FM band.[51] This setup allows each station to transmit signals from dedicated towers, typically covering the metropolitan area and surrounding peri-urban zones, with effective range influenced by terrain, power output, and antenna height. The stations are distributed across four primary regions—North, East, West, and South—ensuring broad geographical presence in both urban centers and smaller cities, with additional coverage in Central India. In North India, the network includes approximately 18 stations in key locations such as Delhi, Lucknow, Agra, Chandigarh, Jaipur, and Kanpur, providing extensive coverage in the densely populated Hindi heartland.[51] East India features stations in cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, Bhubaneswar, Ranchi, and Jamshedpur, extending reach to eastern states including West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, and the Northeast (approximately 11 stations).[51] In West India, operations span approximately 13 stations in Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Nagpur, and Surat, targeting the industrial and commercial hubs of Maharashtra and Gujarat.[51] South India covers approximately 7 stations in Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Thiruvananthapuram, and Mangaluru, serving the diverse markets of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh.[51] Additional stations in Central India include those in Indore, Bhopal, Gwalior, and Jabalpur (4 stations).[51] These figures are as of October 2025; the network plans further expansion to 67 stations following the acquisition by Sapphire Media Limited in May 2025.[5][6]| Region | Example Cities | Number of Stations (as of Oct 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| North | Delhi, Lucknow, Agra, Chandigarh, Kanpur | 18 |
| East | Kolkata, Guwahati, Bhubaneswar, Ranchi | 11 |
| West | Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Nagpur, Surat | 13 |
| South | Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mangaluru | 7 |
| Central | Indore, Bhopal, Gwalior, Jabalpur | 4 |