Vikneswari Subramaniam also known as Viki, the vibrant host of the “Vanakkam Raaga” segment on weekdays from 10 AM to 1 PM, has a journey as unique as her voice. With a background in Banking and Finance from Kaplan Singapore, Viki initially pursued a career in the corporate world. After five years of working in Human Resources, she made a surprising shift to the media industry, following her victory in Astro’s Ultimate Star Search 2022.
Viki’s path to becoming a radio announcer was anything but planned. Initially drawn to stable 8-to-5 jobs, her family encouraged her to explore the entertainment industry. The opportunity came when she came across the audition advertisement for Ultimate Star Search 2022, and Viki decided to give it a shot, leading her to a career where she could connect with people and make them laugh.
“Vanakkam Raaga”, her segments, is a vibrant blend of engaging segments that keeps listeners hooked. “Nee Sollu Pa” ,allows callers to share their thoughts on daily topics at 10 AM, while “Clue’eh Kaathule Thutuvittu” at 11 AM challenges them with movie-related questions, offering a chance to dedicate a song upon success. Viki shared her personal favorite segment, as her primary goal with Vanakam Raaga is to brighten her listeners day, making each segment a source of joy and connection. Her personal favorite, “Kaathuma” at 12 PM, provides a platform for listeners to share their feelings, with Viki lending a compassionate ear. Her primary goal with the show is to brighten her listeners day.
Balancing her roles as a TV host and radio announcer, Viki finds similarities in the need to entertain but notes the unique demands of each medium. On radio, her voice must convey all the emotion and nuance, whereas TV requires mindful facial expressions to complement her performance.
In terms of similarities, I am a performer on both TV and radio, with my primary goal to entertain fans. However, the difference is that in radio, the key lies in the voice, which should incorporate modulation to convey expression. On TV, one must also be mindful of facial expressions.
Challenges are part of Viki’s journey, especially during times when there were no callers. She overcomes these by meticulously planning and rehearsing various segments. Her dedication has paid off, leading her to host her own RAAGA segment, a significant achievement that highlights her rapid progression from a part-time announcer to a beloved voice on the airwaves.
Viki defines success as making even one listener’s day better through her show. A testament to her impact is a cherished memory of a listener who traveled to Astro to meet her, bringing a rose and a plant seedling to express how much “Vanakkam Raaga” had improved her life. Though unable to meet the fan due to work commitments, Viki treasures the thoughtful gifts and the ongoing connection through texts.
One of my cherished moments as a RAAGA announcer was when a listener travelled all the way to Astro just to meet me. She arrived with a rose and a plant seedling, expressing how much my segment made her life better. Unfortunately, due to my work commitments I was unable to meet her although she waited for about an hour. Eventually, she left the thoughtful gifts at the guardhouse for me to collect. To top it off, she would text me after
every segment to date.
For aspiring radio announcers, Viki’s advice is to be authentic and unique. Experimentation is key to finding one’s style. She draws inspiration from all RAAGA announcers, considering them mentors who have significantly influenced her journey.
Viki aims to create a positive impact through her work, striving to be a source of connection and happiness for her fans. She expresses heartfelt gratitude to her supporters, describing them as her energy boosters and promising to continue entertaining them with love and dedication.
My heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for your unconditional love and blessings for me. Your support is what makes me strong. To me, my fans are my energy boosters. I will do my best to entertain you all more. Lots of love from me to you.
With her dynamic presence on both radio and TV, Viki is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the joy of connecting with others. Her journey from the corporate world to the vibrant sphere of broadcasting inspires many, showcasing the beauty of embracing unexpected opportunities.
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