Highlights
Kuku FM Faces Criticism for Dual App Promotion
The audio series platform Kuku FM is encountering backlash from users on social media because of its concurrent promotion of two contrasting apps: the devotional app Bhakti and the erotic content app LoveNasha. This unusual pairing of content types has ignited discussions and criticism among users online.
Launch Details
Both applications were introduced in October 2024, according to information from the Play Store.
About the Bhakti App
The Bhakti app is designed to cater to spiritual seekers, offering a vast array of sacred scriptures, mythological tales, devotional music, and teachings derived from ancient texts. Key features include:
- Over 2,000 hours of audio content
- More than 500 shows and audiobooks
- Bhajans and epic narratives, including the Bhagavad Gita, Mahabharata, and Ramayana
This app was launched officially during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 held in Prayagraj.
About the LoveNasha App
In contrast, the LoveNasha app, which has yet to see an official launch, is focused on erotic content. Kuku FM has been promoting LoveNasha through social media influencers, drawing criticism for the stark contrast between the two applications.
User Reactions
A significant number of users have expressed their concerns and discontent on the social media platform X regarding Kuku FM’s strategy.
Kuku FM’s Market Position
Kuku FM has established itself as a key player in the audio content industry by providing a wide range of genres that include:
- Business
- Self-help
- Personal finance
- History
- Religion
- Entertainment
- Fitness
Led by Lal Chand Bissu, the company has secured a total of $71 million in funding, which includes a $25 million Series C round in October 2023 spearheaded by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Nandan Nilekani’s Fundamentum Partnership. During this funding round, the company’s valuation reached approximately $185 million.
Financial Performance
Kuku FM’s operational revenue witnessed a year-on-year increase of 2.1x, reaching Rs 88 crore in FY24. Additionally, the company reduced its losses by 18%, bringing them down to Rs 96 crore in the previous fiscal year.
Perspective on Criticism
Upon examining Kuku FM’s strategy, the criticism may seem unwarranted. The company is addressing different market demands without any pretense. It is prudent to have a regulated entity in this space rather than let users gravitate towards unregulated and potentially hazardous options. In a young nation like India, moral dilemmas can be complex and may not satisfy everyone. Naturally, should the returns from these offerings fall short, Kuku FM is likely to discontinue them for the very reasons they were initiated.