Prior to joining CNN, Rao worked as a producer and reporter at Hong Kong's Wharf Cable Television and at the Seven Network in Melbourne, Australia. She went on to the principal news anchor role at Star TV where she won the top prize at the 2004 Amnesty International Human Rights Press Awards.
Prior to joining CNN, Rao held positions as a producer and reporter for Hong Kong's Wharf Cable Television and the Seven Network in Melbourne, Australia. She then became the principal news anchor at Star TV, where she was recognized with the top prize from the 2004 Amnesty International Human Rights Press Awards.