Red FM is an Indian network of private FM radio stations operated by Sun Group through its subsidiary, Kal Radio Limited. Branded around the slogan "Bajaate Raho!", the network broadcasts in multiple Indian cities and is one of the largest FM radio networks in India by geographical reach. Its stations primarily air contemporary Hindi film music, regional content, and entertainment-led talk programming.
| Name | Red FM |
|---|---|
| Type | FM radio network |
| Frequency | 93.5 MHz (in most markets) |
| Slogan | Bajaate Raho! |
| Owner | Sun Group (via Kal Radio Limited) |
| Country | India |
| Language | Hindi and various regional languages |
| Format | Contemporary hit radio, entertainment, talk |
Red FM was launched in India following the Government of India's decision to open up FM broadcasting to private operators. The brand was initially associated with the South Asia FM (SAFM) group before being restructured under Sun Group's radio operations. After the second phase of private FM licensing in India, Red FM expanded rapidly across metro and non-metro cities, while a related brand under the same group, S FM (later rebranded as Suryan FM in some southern markets), operated alongside it.
Red FM is widely identified with the 93.5 MHz frequency, although exact frequencies vary in some cities. Its programming is built around Radio Jockey-led shows, with several presenters becoming nationally recognised personalities. The network is particularly known for satirical and topical content, with shows that comment on current affairs and popular culture.
The network is operated by Kal Radio Limited, part of the Chennai-headquartered Sun Group founded by Kalanithi Maran. Red FM operates stations across a large number of Indian cities spanning the north, east, west and south, broadcasting in Hindi as well as regional languages depending on the market. Phase III of FM licensing in India, conducted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, allowed Red FM to further expand into smaller cities.
Red FM is one of the principal players in India's private FM radio industry, alongside competitors such as Radio Mirchi, Radio City and Big FM. It has played a role in popularising RJ culture in India and in establishing FM radio as a mass-market advertising medium in tier-II and tier-III cities. The network's expansion is closely tied to the broader liberalisation of Indian broadcasting and the growth of the Sun Group's media interests beyond television.