Every morning, the soft clatter of pots and the sizzle of breakfast in Kerala homes are now accompanied by the vibrant sounds of Radio Shree, a digital radio platform launched by the Kudumbashree Mission, Kerala’s pioneering women’s empowerment initiative. What began two years ago to mark Kudumbashree’s 25th anniversary has evolved into a shared morning ritual for over 10 lakh listeners, transforming kitchens into spaces of inspiration and connection.

Radio Shree, accessible via a mobile app and the website www.radioshree.com, initially aimed to inform its 48 lakh Kudumbashree members about the organization’s activities and state government initiatives. Today, it boasts a diverse program lineup, including news, local folk songs, plays, poems, lectures, interviews, and audio renditions of literary works, with a focus on women’s empowerment. The station’s cheerful jingles and engaging talk shows, such as those highlighting Kudumbashree entrepreneurs and Kerala’s art forms like Kathakali, have resonated deeply, particularly with middle-aged women, though younger listeners like 25-year-old freelance video editor Naveen are also tuning in.

Naveen, whose mother Sheeba, a Kudumbashree member, introduced him to the station, now listens daily via Bluetooth speakers at home and the Radio Shree app while driving. “My favorite is the program about successful products launched by Kudumbashree members,” he shared, noting that he has encouraged friends to download the app, which has surpassed 5 lakh downloads. Sheeba became a regular listener after a colleague was featured, and the station’s presence has become a household staple.

Also Read: Kerala’s Bold Move: “Help Boxes” and Zero-Hour Sessions to Protect Students

Gayatri, a seasoned radio jockey with over 20 years of experience, hosts 3–4 hours of daily programming, including interviews with Kudumbashree members who share transformative stories of financial independence and social empowerment. “I realized it’s not just a women’s organization—it’s helped women run their families and stand tall in society,” she told PTI, describing her work as both professionally and emotionally fulfilling. The positive experiences shared by members, she noted, have drawn in more listeners.

The station’s growth is no accident. Relaunched in July 2025 under the state-run Malayalam Mission, Radio Shree introduced new programs like Sindooracheppu, Koottukari, and Radio Shree Sahithyotsavam, airing from 7 AM to 1 PM daily, with 24-hour broadcasts split into four six-hour schedules, 18 hours of which are rebroadcasts. A five-minute news bulletin every two hours covers Kudumbashree activities, special projects, and weather updates. The station is now targeting 50 lakh listeners, aligning with Kudumbashree’s goal to expand its membership to 50 lakh.

Anchal Krishnakumar, Kudumbashree’s Public Relations Officer, emphasized ongoing efforts to broaden the listener base through campaigns and an upcoming editorial body to curate richer content. “We’re reaching 48 lakh families and aim to engage more through diverse programming,” he said. In Kannur alone, 20,000 listeners have tuned in, with plans to reach 10 lakh more within months.

Radio Shree’s success lies in its ability to blend entertainment with empowerment, offering a platform for Malayalis worldwide to connect through stories of resilience and cultural pride. As it continues to grow, the station is not just a morning habit but a powerful voice for Kerala’s women, fostering community and change one broadcast at a time.

Also Read: Kerala CM Fights to Retain BrahMos Manufacturing Facility