The BBC Asian Network has roped in Radio 1's Politics reporter Rajini Vaidynathan for its new Bollywood show, starting from Saturday 16th June.

As revealed exclusively first here on BizAsia.co.uk, the programme titled 'Love Bollywood' will be taking over weekend mornings between 08:00 and midday.

'Love Bollywood' is being positioned as a totally interactive show, giving listeners the "most extensive Bollywood coverage".

Sheetal Parmar, the show’s producer says of the new show, "Love Bollywood is an in depth look at Bollywood films, the stars and the industry, but for the first time, it'll be predominantly about the audience and their experience of it. Many British Asians have been brought up with Bollywood and it's a part of their cultural make up whether they like it or not! The audience will decide what we discuss and listen to through message boards, phone ins and an exclusive ‘rant line’. It'll give back to them what they want and more – for example industry related issues like how new media moguls’ who are diversifying the cultural background of Bollywood, which means we're seeing more gutsy and culturally challenging films. It's ambitious and bold, and very exciting to be able to produce something like this".

Saturday's edition of the programme will be presented by flamboyant 'IT' boys Raj and Pablo. They currently present the 'Film Cafe' on Saturday mornings. ZEE Music VJ and Asian Network presenter Murtz Ali will be accompanied by Rajini as hosts of the Sunday edition of 'Love Bollywood'.

Rajini Vaidynathan of Radio 1 says: "People might think it's a bit odd me doing this with a background from News, but anyone who knows me will know I'm mad about Bollywood, just like most British Asians who've been brought up on a diet of Bollywood films. I'm really happy to be involved with something so different, and to be able to indulge in a guilty pleasure!"

Updated: 06/06/07 at 23:09

BizAsia.co.uk will bring you a review of the first outing of 'Love Bollywood' weekend in the coming days.

Related links:
A. Network's Love Bollywood's 'lovebirds' finalised?
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BBC Asian Network to increase music output