Sungeeta Nilayamu

“Bahusha” - Nostalgia is the essence of this song in the voice of Sid Sriram - hanging on to memories and not letting go from the movie Sandarakanda.Take a listen!

We chat to Cordelia Kisten on what makes Vishnu Sahasranama chanting bring one unified voice across all age groups in South Africa 

Paksham  means "fortnight".  As we observe the reverred Pitru Paksham till 10 October 2026 - let’s understand a little more thus word in the Telugu lesson . 

“Srilatha” from Idupu Kayitham beautifully weaves traditional Telugu wedding rituals such as Jeelakarra Bellam and the tying of the three sacred knots. Through its meaningful lyrics, the song reflects the trust, responsibility, and emotional bond that unite two souls in marriage. Understanding these cultural symbols allows us to connect even more deeply with the music and its message.Take a listen !

We chat to upcoming Carnatic vocalist, Ms.Vidhyavahini Muthulingum, who honours and respects the art form and wants to make this art form approachable to the younger generations. Take a deep dive into how she plans to achieve this!

Tatvam means "the true essence".  As we conclude Heritage Month, Tatvam encourages us to cherish our heritage and share its richness with future generations.  Learn this word in our Telugu lesson!

Let’s explore the meaning behind the opening lines of 'Evare Nuvvu', a soulful track that delves into the mysteries of love, fate and the questions we carry in our hearts. Song: Evare NuvveLyrics: SanareSinger: Armaan MalikMusic Director: Jakes BejoyMovie: I'm Game

Heritage is our Vaarasatvam – the precious legacy of our language, culture and traditions that connects us to our roots and carries our identity forward.Take a listen to the Telugu lesson focusing on the word 'Vaarasatvam'.Listen closely as you won't want to miss this one! 

In Conversation with Vashen Ramaloo: Reflecting on Our Heritage, Our Roots and the Beautiful Legacy We Carry Forward.

Heritage is our Vaarasatvam – the precious legacy of our language, culture and traditions that connects us to our roots and carries our identity forward.Take a listen to the Telugu lesson focusing on the word 'Vaarasatvam'.Listen closely as you won't want to miss this one! 

Listen to the meaning of the first few lines of this soulful track 'Chedhu Nijam', - from the 2023 hit Telugu film 'Hi nanna'. An emotional song about the heartbreak and painful acceptance of a bitter truth that pulls two lovers apart. Song: Chedhu NijamLyrics: Krishna KanthSinger: Geetha Madhuri, Vineeth SreenivasanMusic Director: Hesham Abdul Wahab Movie: Hi Nanna

Take a listen to the Telugu lesson focusing on the word 'Vighnam'-  Connected to the idea of an obstruction or impediment — something that prevents a person or task from moving forward. Listen closely as you won't want to miss this one!

This week we bring you a special conversation with the Founder of Gauteng’s Saree & Dhoti Walk in association with Andhra Maha Sabha of South Africa, exploring the inspiration behind this beautiful celebration of Indian culture, heritage and identity.

“Em Sandeham Ledu” 🎶 From the Telugu film Oohalu Gusagusalade, “Em Sandeham Ledu” is a beautiful romantic melody sung by Kalyani Koduri and Sunitha Upadrashta. 

Magic Word of the Day: పునరుజ్జీవనం This week on Sangeetha Nilayamu, discover the beautiful Telugu word Punarujjevanam, meaning renewal, revival, or being brought back to life.

Magic Word of the Day:"  As we celebrate the enduring legacy of radio and storytelling, this Telugu lesson explores the beautiful word “జ్ఞాపకం (Gnapakam)”, meaning memory or remembrance. In the spirit of 90 Years of Broadcasting and the rich cultural journey associated with Lotus FM, we reflect on how memories connect generations through language, music, and shared experiences.

Today we're exploring the romantic Telugu song"Chinni Chinni" from the movie Itllu Arjuna. The lyrics beautifully compare the heroine to a rainbow that brings color, joy, and new emotions into the hero's life. The track is sung by Mohit Chauhan, composed by S. Thaman, and written by Kalyan Chakravarthy Tripuraneni. Its soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics make it one of the memorable romantic song from the film.

Samajavaragamana is a poetic celebration of love, admiration, and beauty. Through exquisite imagery and Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry's evocative lyrics, the song expresses a lover's awe at the beloved's grace and charm, while Sid Sriram's soulful rendition adds depth and emotion. 

Magic Word of the Day:" ప్రసారం" In this edition of Magic Word of the Day, we explore the word "ప్రసారం" (Prasāram), the Telugu word for broadcasting.  As SABC celebrates 90 years of broadcasting, this episode reflects on the word prasāram.

From the 2012 Telugu romantic film Ishq,“Edho Edho” is a beautiful melody sung by Kalyani Nair and Pradeep Vijay, with music composed by Anup Rubens and lyrics by Ananta Sriram  The song captures the tender emotions of two people gradually realizing they are in love. Through its soothing tune and heartfelt lyrics, Edho Edho beautifully portrays the excitement, confusion, and warmth of an unspoken romantic connection . 

Magic Word of the Day: కళాకారుడు (Kalaakaarudu)  Today's Magic Word of the Day is "కళాకారుడు" (Kalaakaarudu), meaning artist; someone who brings imagination, creativity, and emotion to life through their craft. Join us as we explore this beautiful Telugu word and discover how artists enrich our lives through music, literature, dance, and storytelling.

Telusa Nee Kosame is a gentle romantic melody that expresses the joy, comfort, and emotional security that come with finding a life partner. The lyrics beautifully portray how love transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories, using vivid imagery such as a rainbow blooming in the heart and moonlight soothing the scorching heat. Sri Mani's heartfelt words, Ajay Arasada's soothing composition, and Armaan Malik's soulful rendition come together to create a deeply moving love song.

This week’s Telugu lesson features the word "తొంభై"  “Tombhai” (90) in celebration of 90 years of SABC broadcasting. More than just a number, 90 represents a remarkable legacy of storytelling, connection, and service that has informed, entertained, and united generations of listeners.

Rooted in the timeless Hindu tradition, Guru Poornima reminds us that knowledge is not merely acquired, but awakened through the grace of a teacher. Learn the pronounciation  in this Telugu lesson and wish your Guru on this special occasion through our Telugu lesson  🙏🏻

A melody that feels like a conversation between the sky and the clouds, Aakashame Nuvvani beautifully captures the essence of love, longing, and togetherness. Brought to life by the soulful voices of Sid Sriram and Chinmayi Sripada.

In this episode, we spotlight "Niluvanivvade", a heartfelt Telugu music single that has captivated listeners with its soothing melody and poetic expression of love. Sung and composed by Vijai Bulganin, with lyrics by Suresh Banisetti, this independent release beautifully captures the emotions of longing, affection, and unspoken connection, proving that a standalone music single can be just as impactful as a film. 

In today's Telugu Lesson, we unpack the word "గెలుపు" (Gelupu), meaning "Win" or "Victory." We'll learn pronunciation, explore its synonyms and antonyms, and see how it is used in everyday conversations through simple examples. A quick and engaging lesson designed to help you learn, speak, and appreciate Telugu one word at a time.

In today's tribute to S. Janaki, we explore the beloved song “Gunnamaamidi Kommamida.” Through the imagery of a parrot and a cuckoo sharing the same tree, the song beautifully contrasts beauty and melody. Join us as we discover why the cuckoo, or Kokila, remains a perfect symbol for the unforgettable voice of India's beloved Gana Kokila.

In this special edition of Sangeetha Nilayamu, we explore the beautiful Telugu word “Kokila”—the cuckoo, a timeless symbol of sweetness and melody. As a tribute to the legendary S. Janaki, affectionately known as the Gana Kokila, we learn its pronunciation, meaning, synonyms, and everyday usage. Join us for a short yet enriching language journey celebrating a voice that continues to inspire generations. 

In today's lyrics spotlight, we explore the romantic lines "Padhe Padhe Praanam Ninne Koraga" from the Telugu film Rakasa. Penned by Kittu Vissapragada and composed by Anudeep Dev, the song beautifully portrays a heart that finds its world, its dreams, and its purpose in one special person.

In today’s Telugu Lesson, we explore the magic word “Padhe Padhe” (పదే పదే), a beautiful Telugu expression that means “again and again” or “repeatedly.” We discover how this simple phrase adds emotion, emphasis, and lyrical beauty to Telugu songs, poetry, and spoken language, making it a favourite expression among Telugu speakers.

Take a listen to the Telugu lesson focusing on the word 'Parichayam'- introduction or acquaintance.Every friendship begins with a hello, every story begins with a first page, and every meaningful relationship begins with an introduction. Listen closely as you won't want to miss this one! 

Listen to the meaning of the first few lines of this soulful track 'Thalachi thalachi', a dreamy and romantic melody from the movie Hello, featuring beautiful vocals by Haricharan. Song: thalachi thalachiLyrics: VanamaaliSinger: Haricharan Music Director: Anup RubensMovie: Hēllo

This week on Sangeetha Nilayamu  we feature “Priyasakhi”  picturised on rising stars Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya, the song is beautifully rendered by K. S. Harisankar, with music composed by Hesham Abdul Wahab and lyrics by Suresh Banisetti.

In this episode of Telugu Magic Word of the Week, we explore the beautiful Telugu word “Sakhi” (సఖి), meaning a close friend, companion. Widely used in Telugu literature, poetry, music, and dance, the word embodies trust, friendship, and emotional support.

Mr Mishan R Naidoo in conversation with Archana Sridhar on the upcoming Music festival at the Andhra Naha Sabha of South Africa . 

 Hillessa Hillessa” from the movie Thandel beautifully captures love and longing through a soothing coastal melody. Featuring the magical on-screen pairing of Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi, the song is rich in emotion and visual charm. Sung soulfully by Shreya Ghoshal and Nakash Aziz, it blends romance with heartfelt expression 

Purvee Akasam  from Westville AMSATTA   joins us this week in Telugu Eisteddfod  (Sight Reading – Class 33, Subdivision A9).Purvee is well known for her interests in Carnatic classical music , dance and is passionate about learning Telugu. She is our very own stand in presenter for Sangeetha Nilayamu.

Post event discussion on the insight and value of mother tongue languages held in PMB on the 16th May by the Midlands Hindi Sabha with Subhashnie Pillay .Subhashnie is the chairperson of the language committee of the Midlands Hindi Sabha. She is a musician and a dancer and is passionate about teaching and learning languages . 

In this episode, we dive into the dreamy and emotionally rich melody Leharaayi from the Telugu film Most Eligible Bachelor, soulfully rendered by Sid Sriram. The song captures the beauty of falling in love and surrendering to emotion.

Roxanna Manilal from Andhra Vidya Sabha   joins us this week in  Telugu Eisteddfod  (Sight Reading – Class 32, Subdivision A8). Roxanna gaaru has been passionate about learning Telugu language and culture and has kept at it for 40 years . She is willing to extend that learning no matter the time it will take for her to master it ! 

A warm, heart-stirring melody, Unnatundi Gundey from Ninnu Kori captures the quiet language of emotion.  Beautifully rendered by Karthik, the song flows with tenderness, longing, and a gentle intensity that lingers long after it ends.

Telugu Eisteddfod lesson series in association with Andhra Maha Sabha of South Africa . Sadie Harishka Tagat from Illovo AMSATTA classes joins this week’s Telugu Eisteddfod lesson (Sight Reading – Class 31, Subdivision A7). Passionate about learning Telugu, she aims to connect meaningfully with Telugu speakers worldwide.

Thassadiya” is a high‑energy wedding celebration song from Maa Inti Bangaaram, Sung by Chinmayi Sripada and composed by Santhosh Narayanan, Its festive rhythm, reels‑friendly hook, and Samantha’s screen presence have made it an instant super hit song!

Venkata Abhiram Parupudi, Gr 6 learner from Westville Senior Primary school and Westville AMSATTA , joins us in this week's Telugu Eisteddfod lesson, Class 30, subdivison A6.

In this song Sancharame sung by Hesham Abdul wahab and Gorati Venkanna , life assumes meaning when one is on the move ! 

Vice President of the South African Ram Bhajana Association (SARBA) for the upcoming Bhajana Festival that is taking place on the April 26, 2026 .

In continuation of Telugu Eisteddfod lesson of 2026 for Section 28 -A4 and Section :29 -A5  Sight Reading 📖✨This week we were joined by a Grade 8 learner from Maris Stella Ms. Hermani Naidoo who is a member of the Andhra Vidhya Sabha and loves Telugu language because of its uniqueness.

 A historic moment for Lotus FM and the Andhra Maha Sabha of South Africa  marking the very first Telugu Eisteddfod lesson of 2026 for Section 27 , A3 – Sight Reading 📖✨ 10 words forward in preserving and celebrating our language through learning 

Take a listen to the Telugu lesson focusing on the word 'vindu' - feast. Listen closely as you won't want to miss this one!