The Lunch Break

Acclaimed Carnatic vocalist Sri Niveshan Munsamy joins us to discuss his lifelong journey in Indian classical music, the influence of his family's rich artistic heritage, and his passion for preserving and promoting Carnatic music for future generations. He shares how discipline, perseverance, and cultural pride have shaped his career, while reflecting on the importance of introducing this ti...

Veteran South African Indian music artist Bhushan Dass joins us to reflect on his musical journey, the rise of intimate live performances, and the evolution of the local Indian music scene. He also shares insights into his versatile musical style, discusses his latest release, "Chaaron Bhai," and celebrates the significance of Guru Purnima by paying tribute to the mentors who have shaped his...

A healthy credit profile can open the door to future financial opportunities. Director of the National Debt Counsellors, Rene Moonsamy, discusses why good credit matters, the difference between good and bad debt, common credit mistakes young South Africans make, and practical tips for building a strong financial foundation.

For many South Africans, the definition of a "secure home" is changing. While protection from crime remains essential, homeowners are increasingly prioritizing reliable water and electricity supply, resilient infrastructure, and well-managed communities. With ageing municipal systems, ongoing service delivery challenges, and growing concerns over water security, estate living is evolving to meet t...

Step into the dazzling world of Bollywood as South African Desi presents Ek Sau Tera, a spectacular stage production celebrating 113 years of Bollywood's music, dance and cinematic magic. Show Director and Choreographer Suheena Ayrga joins us to share the inspiration behind the annual production, her behind-the-scenes experiences working in Bollywood, and how those experiences have shaped her crea...

Award-winning South African author Imraan Coovadia joins us to discuss his compelling new novel, Enemy of the People , ahead of its Durban launch at the Red Mango Arts Festival. Exploring themes of corruption, political power, family dynamics and moral courage, the novel offers a thought-provoking reflection on contemporary South African society. Coovadia also shares the real-life inspirations beh...

Founder and CEO of Decode, Lorato Tshenkeng, discusses how AI can support a more inclusive and human-centred digital future. The conversation explores digital inclusion, ethical AI, misinformation, and how government can use technology to build trust and better serve all citizens.

Author, filmmaker and creative director Kamanee Govender joins us to discuss her powerful debut novel, Stern Gods . Set during the 1985 State of Emergency in apartheid South Africa, the novel follows eleven-year-old Kaathi Pillay as she navigates life in the Indian township of Bombayville. Kamanee shares the inspiration behind the story, explores themes of trauma, religion, patriarchy and resilien...

Acclaimed singer Suraj Jewan, affectionately known as "Aap Ka Suraj," joins us in the Lotus FM studio for an engaging conversation about his remarkable musical journey. He reflects on opening for Jubin Nautiyal in Johannesburg, the special connection he shares with his fans, and the inspiration behind his latest song, "Radha Rani." Suraj also gives us a glimpse into upcoming music releases and sha...

Choreographer, director and performer Jitesh Ranchod, founder of Celestial Groove, joinsThe Lunch Break  to discuss Dil Se Bollywood, an exciting Bollywood musical coming to Durban on 24 July. He shares the inspiration behind the production, its captivating storyline, vibrant dance performances, iconic Bollywood music, and the journey of bringing this spectacular celebration of culture, movem...

Step into the world of ancient Egypt as The Prince of Egypt comes to life on stage in Durban. Choreographer Evashnee Pillay joins us to discuss this spectacular Young Performers Project production, featuring over 130 talented young performers from 42 schools. She shares insights into the show's breathtaking choreography, powerful music by Stephen Schwartz, and the importance of theatre in developi...

Award-winning celebrity chef, television personality and Salesian Institute Youth Projects Ambassador Jenny Morris joins us to discuss this year's Mandela Day initiative in Cape Town. She shares why giving just 67 minutes of your time can make a lasting impact, what volunteers can expect at the community soup and sandwich drive, and how the initiative supports vulnerable young people throughout th...

This afternoon, we’re joined by Executive Chef Vusi Mbatha from Kruger Shalati and Head Chef Mordecai Brauns from Sanctuary Mandela to discuss From Kruger’s Kitchen to Madiba’s Table—a special Mandela Day collaboration celebrating South African heritage through a unique six-course culinary experience inspired by Madiba’s legacy, indigenous ingredients and the spirit o...

The Red Mango Arts Festival is back for its second edition, bringing four days of theatre, music, literature and cultural celebration to Sastri College in Durban. With a strong focus on community engagement and nurturing the next generation of artists, the festival showcases an exciting mix of emerging and established talent. Festival Director, acclaimed actor, playwright and acting coach Rajesh G...

Tax season is a prime opportunity for cybercriminals to target South Africans through phishing scams, fake SARS messages and eFiling fraud. Cybersecurity expert Lucas Molefe shares practical advice on spotting scams, protecting your personal information and staying safe online during tax season.

At just 13 years old, Saihaan Gokool is already making waves in the modelling industry, appearing in major retail campaigns while balancing life as a student. He joins us to share how he started modelling, what it's like seeing himself on billboards, the importance of family support, and his dreams for the future. Saihaan also offers advice to young aspiring models and influencers looking to follo...

Millions of South Africans are living with undiagnosed health conditions and delaying medical care due to cost, stigma and fear of judgment. Today, we explore how digital health innovations, including the free AI Health Companion, Coach Mpilo, are helping bridge the gap between people and healthcare services. Joining us is Ndumiso Madubela from PSI South Africa to discuss how AI is transforming ac...

The 1860 Heritage Centre in Durban is opening its doors to young minds for A Day at the Museum, an engaging and educational experience for children aged 8 to 18. The interactive programme offers visitors a journey through South Africa’s rich history, featuring exhibitions on Indenture, the Role of Women in the Struggle, and dedicated rooms honouring Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi and Chief A...

Self-taught designer Kireshen Chetty joins us to discuss his journey in fashion and his showcase on the Durban Fashion Fair Rising Stars platform. He shares his interpretation of this year's Durban July theme, "Country Allure," the inspiration behind his latest collection, and how his designs celebrate African heritage and creativity.

South African comedy legend Mark Banks joins us to chat about his latest show, Comedy Nights with Mark Banks , coming to The Whirlwind Theatre in Randburg. Fresh from touring the country, Mark shares his humorous take on the rising cost of living, suburban life, estate agents, and the everyday moments that inspire his razor-sharp satire. He also gives us a glimpse into his interactive "Audience Ex...

SABC 1’s It Started With A Thought features entrepreneur Zanda Isaacs, co-founder of Ting Tang Tea, a 100% black woman-owned wellness brand rooted in indigenous knowledge. She shares how traditional remedies were transformed into a modern business, the challenges of building a small enterprise, and the skills needed to succeed in a competitive industry. The discussion also explores the menta...

We speak to Bobby Budai, Owner and Head Coach of Wanderers Gymnastics Centre, about the vital role gymnastics can play in childhood development. Once a key part of school physical education, gymnastics is now often missing from the curriculum raising concerns about physical literacy among children.

The Global Chinmaya Mission is celebrating its remarkable 75th anniversary, and as part of this milestone, the organisation will host the inspiring Man to Hanuman event in Chatsworth this coming weekend. Joining us is Pavan Maharaj from Chinmaya Mission South Africa to share the rich history of the global movement, the spiritual significance behind the "From Man to Hanuman" concept, and the import...

Varshan Sookhun chats to Jessica Hawkey, Managing Director of redAcademy who discusseshow the "measurement gap" is distorting organization's evaluation of workforce investment.

Varshan Sookhun chats to Jean Napier Hatting about her book "Against the tide" with stories of diving, travel and spearfishing achievements.