In today’s Arts and Culture feature, we celebrate ten vibrant years of rhythm, colour, and creativity with Johannesburg South’s very own Maza Academy of Dance. Known for its flair and fusion of traditional and modern Bollywood dance, the academy marks its 10th anniversary with a spectacular showcase titled “The Bollywood Express.”

Joining us to share more is Sanjana Mahabeer, Choreographer and Teacher at Maza Academy. She chats about the school’s incredible journey, the evolution of Bollywood dance styles, and how classical Kathak continues to influence their performances.

Listeners will also get a sneak peek into what to expect from the upcoming show — from the music and choreography to the students and alumni taking centre stage on 1 November.

🎧 Tune in as we dive into the story behind Maza Academy’s artistry, community spirit, and the celebration of South African-Indian cultural expression — all aboard The Bollywood Express!

As the world moves toward a more sustainable future, Africa’s role in shaping global climate solutions has never been more vital. This week, TEDxJohannesburg Countdown 2025 takes centre stage across Gauteng — uniting visionary thinkers, innovators, and changemakers to drive real action on climate and energy.

Joining us is Viaksha Mohabir, a leading voice in energy transition and advisor to the G20 Energy Transition Working Group. She unpacks the theme “Countdown 25” — connecting global urgency with local innovation — and explores how South Africa’s historic G20 presidency is advancing solidarity, equality, and sustainability.From empowering young women in the energy sector to envisioning a just transition rooted in justice, creativity, and courage — this insightful conversation offers a roadmap for Africa’s sustainable energy future.

In an age where a USB stick and a viral TikTok can spark instant fame, what truly separates a fleeting trend from a lasting legacy behind the decks? Joining us to unpack this is Jade Whitemore, professionally known as Tinkz — a respected DJ, Music Producer, and Lecturer at the Academy of Sound Engineering.

The National Zoological Garden of South Africa, better known as the Pretoria Zoo, marks an incredible 126 years of connecting people to the wonders of the wild. To reflect on this milestone, we’re joined by Tracy Rehse, Director: Animal Collection and Conservation, to talk about the Zoo’s legacy, its conservation efforts, and the exciting activities planned for the big celebration.

In this special Arts and Entertainment feature, we sit down with the creative minds behind The Heart is a Muscle — South Africa’s official entry to the Oscars 2026. The crime thriller, written and directed by the award-winning Imran Hamdulay, stars the talented Keenan Arrison in the lead role.

In Part 1 of this two-part Zoom chat, we dive into the creative journey behind the film, explore the collaboration between Hamdulay and Arrison, and discover how a shared love for Manchester United unexpectedly influenced the casting process.

In Part 2, the conversation turns to the deeper themes of the film and the intricate process of campaigning for an Academy Award nomination.

National Geographic Explorer Noel Kok, Executive Director of NEWF, joins us to discuss Wild Hope: Rhino Ops — a powerful documentary highlighting Africa’s largest rhino horn protection initiative at Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park. He shares insights on empowering African storytellers, the importance of conservation filmmaking, and how initiatives like dehorning are protecting Africa’s rhinos.

On The Lunch Break with Varshan Sookhun on Lotus FM, we mark World Dictionary Day — a celebration of language, learning, and literacy.

Joining us is Dariol Wicomb, Dictionary Publisher at Oxford University Press South Africa, to discuss the importance of dictionaries in preserving linguistic heritage, how language continues to evolve in our multilingual society, and how Oxford’s innovative ‘Aweh! Braille’ edition is promoting inclusivity for visually impaired readers.

From the evolution of words and the influence of AI on language, to advancing literacy for all — this conversation dives into how words continue to shape our culture, confidence, and connection as South Africans.

Cape Town-based Surgeon, Dr. Fatima Hoosain, will be discussing how breaking the silence around Breast Cancer screening and treatment could be a game-changer for South African women.

South African actress and L’Oréal Paris Sub-Saharan Africa Ambassador Ama Qamata joins The Lifestyle Feature with Varshan Sookhun to discuss her journey from Blood and Water to the global stage. She reflects on representing African beauty, the power of sisterhood, coping with grief, and inspiring young women to dream boldly and stay authentic.

Ahead of her appearance at the Red Mango Arts Festival, award-winning actress, comedian, and playwright Krijay Govender joins Varshan Sookhun on The Lunch Break to discuss her journey in South African theatre and comedy. She reflects on breaking barriers for Indian women in the arts, using storytelling to preserve cultural identity, and her role in promoting arts and heritage in Mzansi.