The UAE’s radio community mourns the passing of iconic radio voice Sunny Bernard, whose career delighted listeners for more than 15 years. Sunny Bernard’s influence in the UAE’s radio scene remains unforgettable, touching countless lives and inspiring generations of broadcasters.
Sunny Bernard, a former Indian expat and radio presenter, passed away on Monday night in Kerala, India. He was 73. Known for his charisma and versatility, he became a cherished figure among the Indian expat community in the UAE.
Sunny began his UAE radio career in 1997 with the now-defunct Radio Asia. Over the years, he won the hearts of listeners with his lively voice, humour, and talent in mimicking others. His engaging personality made every program he hosted memorable.
Colleague Nissar Syed recalled Sunny’s earlier contributions in Kerala’s cultural scene, including performances with Kochin Kalabhavan. “Even before moving to the UAE, Sunny showcased exceptional talent as a voice artist and performer,” Syed said.
Deepa Ganesh, another former radio presenter, highlighted Sunny’s involvement beyond hosting. He performed major roles in radio dramas, lent his voice to prominent advertisements, and contributed to production and scriptwriting. “Sunny’s work reached audiences across the Gulf, leaving a lasting impact,” Ganesh added.
The UAE’s radio community feels a double loss, coming just weeks after the passing of Sanal Potty, another iconic Malayalam radio personality, who died on December 2 in Kochi. Potty was remembered for his gentle voice and extensive media presence.
Longtime UAE resident Youseph Sageer expressed sorrow over the back-to-back losses. “Both Sunny and Sanal had extraordinary voices. Their talent connected with listeners, making them unforgettable,” he said.
Fans, colleagues, and the Indian expat community in the UAE continue to remember Sunny Bernard for his warmth, creativity, and contributions to radio entertainment. His programs inspired laughter, joy, and connection for over fifteen years.
Sunny Bernard’s legacy demonstrates how one voice can shape a community’s media culture. He will also be remembered as a symbol of dedication, talent, and enduring influence in UAE radio.
