Mumbai: Worldspace Satellite Radio , a satellite-based digital radio services has launched the first ever 24-hour national Gujarati radio channel, Radio Umang. Channel No 111 on the Worldspace Satellite Radio Network, `Radio Umang` presents a platform that will range from Garba and Dandia Raas to Sugam Sangeet and Ghazals, that showcase the rich diversity of musical traditions of Gujarat.

This newest addition and ninth regional language channel in the worldspace line-up captures the rich folk music traditions of Gujarat. The channel also features shows that are dedicated to Gujarati theatre, Garba music, Retro Gujarati film music, Gujarati poetry and literature, comedy, modern Gujarati music among several other shows hosted by personalities from the world of Gujarati music and entertainment, informs an official release.

"We are continually looking to enhance our subscribers` listening experience with the addition of unique, compelling, and fresh content, This most recent addition to our lineup demonstrates our commitment to further rounding out the breadth of our branded channels and differentiating ourselves from the offerings of traditional radio in India and around the world." said Worldspace Satellite Radio vice president, global programming William Sabatini.

`Radio Umang` joins a growing portfolio of Indian regional language channels available on the worldspace. Which currently includes eight other regional channels in Tamil (KL Radio), Malayalam (RM Radio), Telugu (Spandana), Kannada (Sparsha), Bengali (Tara), Punjabi (Tunak Punjabi) Urdu (Falak) and Marathi (Surabhi). These worldspace channels also reach Indian listeners living within the AsiaStar(TM) satellite coverage area, including in the Middle East where there is a large Indian population, adds the release.

Several of these programs include:Suravali Ashit Ni -- This program is hosted by one of the most respected names in the Gujarati music industry, Ashit Desai, and features some of his popular songs from various genres of Gujarati music.

Taajgi -- An invigorating breakfast show hosted by popular radio entertainer, Ajinkya Sampat. It showcases the best of Gujarati music from film songs, garba, folk songs and light music and also provides interesting music facts and trivia.

Be Ghadi Anand -- An evening show that features insight and perspectives on Gujarati culture, literature and music from playback singer Hema Desai.

Makhmali Mehfil -- Highlights rhythms of Gujarati ghazals and is hosted by Gujarati actor Aanand Goradiya.