Nepali Radio Program Melbourne Chautari Celebrates 20 Years of Broadcasting Excellence

MELBOURNE  – In a remarkable milestone for the Nepali community in Melbourne, the renowned radio program, Melbourne Chautari, is poised to mark its 20th year on the airwaves. Operated under the aegis of the Nepalese Association of Victoria (NAV), this cultural cornerstone first graced the airwaves on October 30, 2003, and has been a cherished source of information and entertainment for Nepali expatriates in Australia ever since.

Broadcasted every Thursday from 8 to 9 PM on 3CR Community Radio, Melbourne Chautari has become a vital conduit for disseminating news, views, interviews, and music from the Nepali diaspora to its avid listeners. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the program’s dedication to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.

Notably, Melbourne Chautari holds the distinction of being the first Nepali radio program in Victoria, blazing a trail for cultural expression in the region.

At its inception, Melbourne Chautari was steered by the visionary leadership of Mr. Ranjan Vaidya, who served as the president of NAV. Under his guidance, the program took its first steps into the hearts and homes of Nepali residents in Victoria. Reflecting on the journey, Mr. Vaidhya remarked, “It’s incredible to see how Melbourne Chautari has evolved over the years. It started as a small initiative, and today it stands tall as a beacon of our community’s unity and resilience.” He emphasized the collective efforts of NAV, volunteer RJs and other stakeholders to bring Melbourne Chautari to this stage.

One of the program’s most enduring figures, Mr. Lok Rai, has held the distinguished title of the longest-serving Radio Jockey (RJ) in Melbourne Chautari. His charismatic presence and unwavering commitment to delivering quality content have made him a beloved figure among listeners. Mr. Rai’s dedication has played a pivotal role in shaping the program’s success story.

Mr. Tilak Pokharel, who served the program for more than eight years, shared his reflections on the program’s journey, stating, “Being a part of Melbourne Chautari has been a privilege. It’s heartening to see how it has grown to become an integral part of our community’s identity.” Dr. Anupam Pokharel, who also served the program stated “It was privilege to serve to be part of the radio program”

Over the years, Melbourne Chautari has seen dozens of RJs contribute their talents and passion to the program, each adding their unique touch to this cultural tapestry.

Current NAV president, Mr. Prem Raj Upreti, lauded the program’s milestone, highlighting its profound impact on the community. “Melbourne Chautari has been instrumental in bridging the gap between generations of Nepali Australians. It’s not just a radio program; it’s a cultural lifeline that connects us all,” he emphasized.

As Melbourne Chautari enters its third decade, it does so with a renewed commitment to serve as a platform for the voices, stories, and aspirations of the Nepali diaspora in Australia. The program continues to be a source of inspiration and unity, echoing the sentiments of a community that thrives on cultural exchange and shared heritage.