10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Broadcast Pro
Dubai's Malayalam radio station Hit 96.7 FM celebrates 21 years
The 21st anniversary celebrations featured a variety of events and activities for more than a month, with the main attraction being the 'Hit the Jackpot' on-air contest.
Hit 96.7 FM, Dubai's Malayalam radio station, has celebrated 21 years of broadcasting, marking more than two decades of music, community engagement and cultural storytelling. The milestone was commemorated with a month-long series of celebrations and listener-focused activities, reaffirming the station's position at the heart of the South Indian expatriate community in the UAE.
Since its inception in 2004, Hit 96.7 FM, part of the Arab Media Group, has evolved into a cultural cornerstone for Malayali and South Indian audiences. Known for its back-to-back Malayalam hits, timely hourly news bulletins, and occasional Tamil tracks, the station has built a reputation for being more than just a source of entertainment; it has become a trusted daily companion for its listeners.
The station's popularity is powered by its team of celebrated presenters, including Mithun Ramesh, Nyla Usha, Arfaz Iqbal, Jean Markose, Maya Kartha, Nimmy and Dona Sebastian. These RJs are not only radio personalities but also regional celebrities with strong influence in the community. Accompanying them are news anchors Shabu Kilithattil and RJ Fazlu, whose news delivery has earned the station a reputation for credibility and consistency.
Reflecting on the station's legacy, RJ Mithun Ramesh, who also serves as Head of Programmes, said: 'For 21 years, we've not just been playing music — we've been listening, influencing, and staying connected with our people. We're proud to be the voice for the Malayalis and other communities, reflecting their stories, dreams, and culture every single day. This milestone isn't just ours — it belongs to every listener who made us part of their daily life.'
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the station hosted a variety of interactive events, with the centerpiece being the 'Hit the Jackpot' contest. The on-air campaign saw hundreds of listeners win exciting prizes such as gold bars, annual grocery supplies, product vouchers and other rewards. The festivities began in early June with a launch event at Carnival by Trèsind in DIFC and concluded with a grand finale at Marhaba Mall on July 5. The finale featured a lively 'Trolley Dash,' engaging games, giveaways, and energetic live appearances by the station's RJs, drawing in enthusiastic crowds of listeners and families.
The anniversary campaign was backed by main sponsors O Gold Wallet, Nellara Food Products, and Al Madina Hypermarket, with event support from Ad&M International Advertising & Events.
