Shaastra Nagesar: the voice of South African radio and lifestyle content
In the heart of Durban, Shaastra Nagesar has become a household name, embodying the spirit of South African radio and lifestyle content creation.
With over a decade of experience, Nagesar is currently captivating listeners as the co-host of the popular “Breakfast Express” show on LotusFM, broadcasting live from 6 to 9 am — a role that has garnered significant recognition, earning her recent accolades at the SA Radio Awards.
Her "The Weekend Explosion with Shaastra Nagesar“ also won Best Weekend Show, while the ”Breakfast Express“ took home the honours for Best Community Project, further solidifying her influence in the industry.
Nagesar's academic credentials in drama, performance, and media communications complement her extensive hands-on experience.
Notably, her background in dance and acting, particularly her achievement in Bharatanatyam, has enriched her performance skills, earning her the title of Kumari.
"For me, it never feels like work. It's about having fun and connecting with the nation," she explains, reflecting on her daily 4.30am wake-up call.
Though she has a thriving platform that allows her to create content and connect with a wide audience, Nagesar's journey into social media was anything but conventional.
Despite being hesitant to join TikTok in 2019, she embraced the platform about a year ago. Initially drawn to dance trends, she discovered her true voice by sharing what she found relatable and interesting, which got her noticed.
"It's like discovering something amazing and wanting to tell your friends — only now, I'm sharing it with tens of thousands of people," she says, relishing the connections she’s forged.
As a lifestyle content creator, Nagesar has not confined herself to one niche, which she credits as an advantage.
Her authentic approach, rooted in the same principles that thrive in radio, has led to a rapidly growing audience eager to engage with her content.
"The more genuine a video feels, the better it performs," she explains, emphasising the importance of authenticity in an era dominated by a perfect façade.
Nagesar's foray into social media was sparked by the pandemic, which cancelled her rehearsals for a musical theatre production.
"It became the creative outlet I was searching for," she notes. Despite facing the inevitable challenges that come with being in the public eye, including negative comments, she remains committed to spreading joy.
"If you’re able to help, inspire, or make just one person smile, it’s all worth it," she asserts, highlighting the majority of positive feedback she continues to receive.
As the travel season approaches, Nagesar shares her top tips for South African travellers, encouraging them to explore the breathtaking beauty of their own country instead of looking overseas.
"Check traffic reports before you leave, check in online for flights, and most importantly, keep calm and enjoy yourself!" she advises.
"South Africa is such a stunning country; there's so much more to discover," she proclaims, ardently promoting local tourism.
From hidden gems along the coastline to awe-inspiring landscapes inland, Nagesar believes there's beauty in every corner of Mzansi, especially as international travel prices soar.