Co-founders
DJ Ritu
Co-founder
DJ Ritu MBE is a globe-trotting turntablist, broadcaster, producer, curator, Fine Arts graduate, equalities activist, and the voice of the UK’s definitive independent global music show, A World in London. Her 37-year career includes two decades at the BBC, co-founding 90s cult label Outcaste Records, and touring in over 35 countries as a band-leader and solo artist. Ritu is a pioneer of the ‘Asian Underground’ and Bhangra scenes, opening doors for other artists globally. She has been decolonising dancefloors & radio airwaves since the 80s, connecting cultures through music, and trailblazing paths for women and PoC artists.
Ritu is the founder and artistic director/DJ of the world’s two longest-running South Asian music club nights – Kuch Kuch Bollywood Nights (23 years) and Club Kali (28 years) – and the UK’s first ever queer SWANA music club, Hoppa (est 2000).
Formerly the SOAS Concert Series Producer, Ritu is a member of the Mayor’s London Music Board, and European World Music Charts panel.
In 2023, DJ Ritu was awarded an MBE in King Charles III first birthday Honours list, for services to music and broadcasting.
Rita
Co-founder
Rita’s inspiration for Club Kali came out of her work in the field Domestic Violence (DV). A Social Psychologist, she established innovative projects including BAME Refuges and services, Outreach Projects. She re-established the UK’s only National LGBT DV Helpline. As a Consultant / Trainer, and expert in this field she understands the prevalence and impact of issues on the lives of LGBTQ people.
The need for a safe space drove Rita & DJ Ritu to establish Club Kali as a safe, and celebratory event space welcoming all LGBT/Queer people. Club Kali’s unique model provides a sense of belonging and support for this community, now more than ever on issues such as coming out, prejudice, HIV, mental/physical health, domestic violence, forced marriage, discrimination, and issues to reduce the isolation we face, and to work with partners to address the gaps toward creating a more just, and equitable world for our communities.