The BBC Asian Network today announces that it will broadcast the world’s first Official Asian Download Chart. Presented by Bobby Friction, the three hour extended show is set to launch on Saturday 27 March from 3pm – 6pm.

Compiled by The Official Charts Company, the Top 20 Rundown replaces the station’s current Saturday afternoon opinion-based buzz chart. The BBC Asian Network has played a strategic role in developing the chart, which is based on UK-only Digital Retail Sales.

Bobby Friction will count down the best new Asian music and releases and there’ll be more listener interaction than ever before. The chart will also feature key ‘No 1’ moments, with special guest artists and there will be a strong link with Mumbai. The full Top 40 will be available online each Saturday at bbc.co.uk/asiannetwork.

Mark Strippel, Head of Music & Events, BBC Asian Network, says: “The Asian Network takes its responsibility towards supporting the Asian music industry very seriously and we’re proud to be launching the first Official Chart format. The formation of this Chart has been a long time coming and is a real landmark moment.”

Phil Matcham from the Official Charts Company, says: “Creating an official chart that covers Asian music sales has been a long term ambition of ours and we are delighted that we are now able to produce such a chart. We are confident it will provide a focus for, and raise the profile of this vibrant and successful genre.”

Bobby Friction adds: “To say I’m excited to present the world’s first Asian Download Chart show is an understatement!  I’ve spent 20 years in this industry waiting for something like this to happen, and presenting the show is something I’ll do with joy and full-on passion.  At last music fans around the world will be able to gauge the true popularity of their favourite artists and tracks, make no mistake – this is a game-changing moment in the history of Desi music.”