"I’ll miss the listeners and all the people"
The first-ever Official British Asian Chart Show will debut on BBC Asian Network on Thursdays from 9 to 10 pm starting on April 18.
The weekly programme, which is hosted by Jasmine Takhar, will highlight the finest of British Asian music.
It will feature a one-hour overview of the top 20 songs, as determined by the Official Charts Company using data from UK sales and streams.
Presently, Jasmine presents BBC Introducing on the Asian Network on Tuesdays from 8 to 10 pm, supporting up-and-coming, unsigned, and lesser-known musicians.
Speaking on this new venture, Jasmine explained:
“I’m so gassed for the new show!
“This is a monumental moment not just for the station but for the scene.
“To be asked to host this at a time where the industry is celebrating and pushing British Asian music to the forefront is definitely something I’m proud of.”
Ahmed Hussain, Head of Asian Network, commented:
“The launch of The Official British Asian Chart has been a long time coming, and I’m really excited for the UK Asian music scene, with Asian Network at the forefront!
“This will give all of our artists a bigger chance to hit the top 10 and beyond!”
It was also revealed that Noreen Khan, who has been an amazing host for the past 12 years, is leaving the network.
Before turning the reins over, Noreen will host the Asian Network Comedy Gala in Glasgow on February 29 after her final programme on February 25.
Over the next few months, there will be some fascinating guest presenters during her Sunday slot.
Speaking on her departure, Noreen Khan explained:
“I’ve had such a brilliant time at the Asian Network!
“The years flew by and I built a real genuine connection with the listeners, who felt like extended family.
“It always felt like such a privilege to be in that studio daily doing something I loved.”
“I felt the time was right to be able to go and just explore all the places and things I’ve always wanted to do.
“I’ll miss the listeners and all the people I worked with over the years and want to say thanks to everyone who’s been a part of this lovely, incredible radio journey!”
Aside from that, AJD Thursdays will now air from 6 to 9 pm and feature an extra hour of the greatest and newest Punjabi music from around the globe.
DJ Nish will no longer be hosting her Thursday night programme and her final appearance will be on April 11.
However, these are not the only ones exiting the BBC Asian Network.
On February 24, Beyond Bollywood with Haroon will cease operations and Mehreen Baig will also leave.
Mehreen will host the third season of the Not Even Water podcast, which will debut in March in time for Ramadan.
On weekdays, Haroon will still promote Bollywood on his regular broadcasts (Monday-Friday, 11 am-3 pm).
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