Baramulla: In an era increasingly dominated by digital media, community radio continues to play a unique and essential role in many parts of Jammu and Kashmir. At the heart of this movement is RJ Sajid, a broadcaster whose voice has become familiar to listeners across several districts, from Baramulla to Udhampur.
Currently heading Radio Udhampur 89.2 FM, Sajid has worn many hats in his decade-long career: radio host, producer, anchor, and station manager. Known for his grounded approach and ability to connect across diverse communities, he shares his journey and insights in this conversation with Kashmir Images.
Q: Sajid, let’s start at the beginning. What drew you to radio, and how did your journey unfold?
RJ Sajid: I started at Radio Chinar, hosting a morning show. At the time, I didn’t imagine it would grow into something bigger, but the interaction with listeners, their trust, and the stories they shared pushed me to take radio more seriously. Over time, I transitioned into management roles, first at Paigam-e-Shopian, then at Radio Kupwara, Radio Baramulla, and now Radio Udhampur. Each step has taught me something new.
Q: You’ve worked in some of the most diverse and sometimes sensitive areas of J&K. What has community radio meant in these places?
RJ Sajid: It’s more than just a medium of information or entertainment. In many areas, especially in rural or underserved communities, radio is still the most accessible way for people to stay connected with the world and with each other. It gives space to local voices, local dialects, and local concerns that are often overlooked in mainstream media.
Q: From hosting shows to managing stations, what’s the biggest shift you’ve experienced in your role over time?
RJ Sajid: As a host, your focus is primarily on content, how you speak, and how you engage listeners. But once you step into a leadership role, it’s about the station as a whole, team dynamics, program strategy, outreach, and making sure the station serves its community responsibly. It’s a much broader lens.
Q: You’ve also been a familiar face at cultural and official events as an MC. How does that complement your radio work?
RJ Sajid: Hosting events has given me the chance to interact with audiences directly. On the radio, you can imagine your listeners, but on stage, you see them. You read the room, respond in real-time, and adapt. It sharpens your communication skills and gives you a better sense of what resonates with people.
Q: What kind of content do you believe is most impactful in a community radio context?
RJ Sajid: Programs that are rooted in local realities. That could mean highlighting a folk tradition, talking about a local health issue, or even covering a success story from a nearby village. People relate more when they see themselves reflected in the stories.
Q: You’re often credited with playing a key role in strengthening community radio culture in J&K. What do you make of that?
RJ Sajid: I don’t look at it in terms of credit. I’ve just tried to be consistent. Community radio is a collaborative effort. I’ve been fortunate to work with dedicated teams, and I’m happy if my efforts have helped build trust and raise the profile of what community radio can do here.
Q: What do you think is the future of community radio in Kashmir?
RJ Sajid: I believe it has a strong future, but only if we keep it relevant. That means involving youth, embracing new formats, and staying connected to the ground. Technology will evolve, but the value of authentic, local storytelling will always be there.
Q: And finally, what would you say to young people who are thinking about entering radio today?
RJ Sajid: Don’t chase glamour. Radio is about empathy, patience, and persistence. If you enjoy listening as much as you enjoy speaking, and if you care about people’s stories, then radio is for you.
