A World In London

SOAS Radio is truly excited to have DJ Ritu on board! Her show A World in London has long been a much-loved institution, recognized as the essential meeting point for world music fans and a hub for the industry. Originally broadcast on the BBC London, Ritu’s show has an unrivalled reputation for presenting a rich cultural mix that truly reflects the diverse musical tastes of London and its people.
Whether she's interviewing one of the leading lights of world music (past guests have included A R Rahman, Angelique Kidjo, Jah Wobble, Tinariwen, and Tarkan) or introducing listeners to new talent, Ritu’s down-to-earth approach demystifies world music, presenting it as a user-friendly genre which unites cultures and denies barriers.
For the very best sounds from all 4 corners of the globe, to hear the freshest (and often exclusive) new releases, to know who’s who, and what’s happening in town, check out A World In London every Tuesday at 4pm online and podcast!

East London born DJ Ritu began her career as a pop music expert in 1986. Since then she has been at the forefront of London’s global beats/world music scene. In the 90s she co-founded Outcaste Records signing Nitin Sawhney and Badmarsh & Shri. She created two bands – first the Asian Equation and later Sister India – for whom she mixed cool Asian Underground vibes with trip-hop, drum & bass, and techno. She has toured in over 30 countries from Istanbul to Cape Town, Cairo to Tokyo, Toronto to Riga, and beyond, performing at major venues and festivals such as The Big Chill & WOMAD, Royal Festival Hall & Trafalgar Square.
In 2006, when the late Charlie Gillett resigned from BBC London due to ill-health Ritu was the natural choice as his successor. She re-launched the Saturday night world music slot with a particular focus on the UK’s capital and its diverse communities, championing emerging local artists and giving them airspace alongside established international stars such as Tarkan, Angelique Kidjo, A.R. Rahman, Mariza, & Omara Portuondo.
Ritu’s weekly show for BBC3 Counties Radio is now 20 years in the running and is syndicated in Germany, Turkey, & online. She has broadcast for BBC World Service, Kiss 100, and more. Ritu is a Rough Guides CD compiler and she runs three London clubs where you can hear her in action playing her unique mixes of North African, Middle-Eastern, Mediterranean, and Bollywood flavours!