(Continued from last fortnight)
It is vital to take note of the fact that the government itself provides a subsidy to people who want to start community radio services. Once an individual starts the channel then the government provides Rs. ten lakhs as a subsidy. The government also carries out the marketing in this area through advertisements. There are a number of ministries who give sponsorship programmes for the community radio services. These are the support systems for the sustenance of particular channels.
Dr. Jaisakthivel shared a slice of nostalgia capturing the bewitching and exquisite history of radio services making a mark in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. “Tucked away in the serene environs of Mylapore’s Nageswara Rao Park, a quaint, vintage building stands as a silent testament to Madras’s rich radio history. This unassuming structure once housed the Corporation’s radio receiver, a device that captivated the city’s residents in the early decades of the 20th century. In the 1930s, before the advent of television and the widespread proliferation of personal radios, this building served as a community gathering point. As the sun dipped below the horizon, locals would converge on the park, drawn by the allure of All India Radio programs. The soft hum of the radio, amplified through loudspeakers, would fill the air, transporting listeners to distant lands and immersing them in tales, music, and news.”
“The Madras Corporation’s foray into broadcasting began in 1924, initiated by the Madras Presidency Radio Club. A modest 40-watt transmitter with a 5-mile range marked the humble beginnings of this pioneering venture. The club’s financial constraints led to its dissolution in 1927, but its legacy lived on. The Corporation acquired the transmitter and launched a regular broadcasting service in 1930. Daily evening programmes, music lessons, stories for children, and Sunday morning gramophone sessions became a cherished part of the city’s cultural landscape. To reach a wider audience, the Corporation installed loudspeakers in public parks and schools, allowing even those without personal radios to partake in the radio revolution.”
“However, the Corporation’s broadcasting era was short-lived. In 1938, the inauguration of All India Radio’s new medium and shortwave stations in Madras marked the end of the Corporation’s broadcasting services,” said Dr. Jaisakthivel.
Standing In Silence Yet Standing Tall: Vintage Building Once Housed The Corporation’s Radio Receiver! Photo credits: Dr. T. Jaisakthivel, caption credits: Roshan Zahin.
Today, the building in Nageswara Rao Park stands as a poignant reminder of a bygone era. While it may no longer broadcast the soothing melodies of the past, it continues to evoke nostalgia and intrigue. It is a testament to the enduring power of radio and its ability to connect people across generations.
Six radio loud speaking equipment were installed at the Marina, Robinson Park, Spur Tank, Panagal Park, Peoples Park and High Court Beach, and were in operation in the evenings. Fourteen Corporation schools were also equipped with small indoor sets for the benefit of children. The Corporation ceased to broadcast programmes with effect from the 16th June 1938 on which day new medium and short wave stations in Madras were inaugurated by All India Radio.
To wind up our chat, Dr. Jaisakthivel sums up the prospects of community radio. He envisions a prosperous future for the same. “Mostly people listen to Akashvani, private FM’s, radio musings, newsletters, etc. In Chennai people living in the Nungambakkam area could listen to M.O.P and Loyola FM. And those residing near Guindy and Adyar could tune in to Anna FM. Folks living in ECR could listen to Nalamthana FM. And similarly those residing in Katankulathur could be all ears to SRM FM. People listening to radio channels in these areas make room for a substantial crowd and they can contribute in producing content.
All these will eventually give a boost to building up the service of community radio. I am saying this with great certitude,” he finished.