Today we’d like to introduce you to Rajeswari Udayagiri
Hi Rajeswari, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey in the media and entertainment industry began as a television anchor & artist, where I found much-needed prominence and recognition. Despite being a highly successful IT professional, my love for media never dimmed. Fueled by this passion, I established the first Telugu theatre company in the United States, Sarasija Theatres.
After dedicating 22 years to the corporate world, I finally decided to take the plunge and embark on a new chapter in media and entertainment through Radio Surabhi, the first 24-hour Telugu radio station in the United States.
In 2022, a distinctive broadcast began to spread across the American airwaves, introducing the first ever 24×7 Telugu radio station called Radio Surabhi. This unique endeavor was brought to fruition . Radio Surabhi offers a rich blend of Telugu melodies, current events, discussions, and entertainment, captivating the Telugu-speaking audience throughout the United States.
Glowing with the radiance of exceptional programming, charismatic presenters, and a deep reverence for Telugu culture and language, Radio Surabhi has risen as a beacon of light, drawing in a devoted listenership from across the nation. My journey has been a testament to passion, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, and Radio Surabhi stands as a shining symbol of this incredible adventure.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road to establishing Radio Surabhi America’s first ever 24/7 telugu radio has been anything but smooth. The journey was fraught with challenges, and each hurdle taught me invaluable lessons.
As a woman in a highly competitive and male-dominated industry, I often faced skepticism and opposition. Many doubted my ability to succeed, but their doubts only fueled my determination. Setting up a radio station from scratch was an enormous undertaking. I had to learn the technical aspects of radio broadcasting, a field I was initially unfamiliar with. Navigating the complexities of equipment, software, and the intricacies of radio frequency management was a steep learning curve.
Additionally, I encountered significant opposition from individuals who didn’t want to see me succeed. Their resistance ranged from subtle undermining to overt attempts to block my progress. It was disheartening at times, but I remained resolute in my vision for Radio Surabhi.
Balancing family responsibilities with the demands of building a radio station was another significant challenge. Managing a household and raising a family while dedicating countless hours to this project required immense dedication and time management skills. There were days when the struggle to maintain this balance seemed overwhelming, but the support of my loved ones helped me persevere.
Building a team that shared my passion and vision for Radio Surabhi was crucial. Finding the right people who were not only skilled but also committed to the cause was a daunting task. It took time and effort to assemble a team that could bring Radio Surabhi to life, but their dedication and hard work made all the difference.
Despite these struggles, the journey has been incredibly rewarding. The challenges I faced have only strengthened my resolve and made the success of Radio Surabhi all the more meaningful. It stands as a testament to perseverance, passion, and the unyielding pursuit of dreams.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an entrepreneur who has founded America’s first-ever 24/7 Telugu radio station, Radio Surabhi. I specialize in media and entertainment, with a deep-rooted passion for theatre. My work is known for its dedication to uplifting Telugu culture and providing it with a pathway for global recognition. Hailing from a city in India, I have managed to bring my cultural heritage to the main stage in the United States.
I am incredibly proud of how Radio Surabhi has become a beacon of Telugu culture, connecting the diaspora and showcasing our rich heritage through music, news, talk shows, and entertainment. What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting my culture, combined with the innovative approach of integrating traditional elements with modern media.
My interest lies in theatre and media, and I am always looking to create marvels that everyone can cherish. Through Radio Surabhi and other ventures, I hope to continue making significant contributions to the world of media and entertainment, ensuring that Telugu culture remains vibrant and celebrated across the globe.
The vision is to spread our wings all across america and make Radio Surabhi a popular name in every Telugu household.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
In my experience, mentorship often stems from genuine relationships rather than formal arrangements. Building authentic connections with people in your industry is key. Attend industry events, workshops, and conferences where you can meet potential mentors and peers. When you approach these events with a mindset of learning and sharing, rather than just networking, you’re more likely to forge meaningful relationships. Engage in conversations, ask insightful questions, and show a sincere interest in others’ work.
One approach that has worked particularly well for me is leveraging the power of community. For example, when I was establishing Radio Surabhi, I connected with other media professionals and entrepreneurs within the Telugu community. These connections were incredibly valuable, as they provided not only mentorship but also support and collaboration opportunities. Being part of a community where people are willing to share their knowledge and experiences can be immensely beneficial.
Utilizing social media and professional networks like LinkedIn has also been effective. These platforms allow you to connect with industry leaders and peers globally. When reaching out to potential mentors on these platforms, be clear and concise about why you are reaching out and what you hope to gain from the connection. Personalized messages that reflect your research about the person and their work are more likely to get a positive response.
Another piece of advice is to be proactive in your learning and growth. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; seek them out. This could mean taking courses, attending webinars, or even volunteering for projects that interest you. Demonstrating initiative and a willingness to learn can attract mentors who appreciate and want to support your drive.
For me, mutual respect and reciprocity have been fundamental in building strong mentor-mentee relationships. Always respect your mentor’s time and advice, and be open to constructive criticism. At the same time, offer your own insights and support whenever possible. A mentor-mentee relationship should be mutually beneficial, fostering growth on both sides.
Lastly, never underestimate the power of persistence and patience. Building a network and finding the right mentor takes time. Rejections and setbacks are part of the process, but they shouldn’t deter you. Stay persistent, keep refining your approach, and remain patient. The right connections will eventually come your way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.radiosurabhi.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiosurabhi/
- Facebook: https://search.app/HnKjbSYGgNEcHqVL9
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RadioSurabhi
Image Credits
Elite Live Productions
