I'm thrilled to invite you to "Radio Revolution," a special seminar on February 13th at KSR College of Arts and Science in Tiruchengode. I'll be there, along with other guests, to celebrate all things radio!
Join us at 10:00 AM in Sangam Hall to hear from experts and explore the fascinating world of broadcasting. It's a great opportunity for radio listeners to connect and learn more about their favorite medium. Hope to see you there!
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CHENNAI - A recently discovered vintage bookmark featuring iconic HMV (His Master's Voice) audio equipment has sparked nostalgia and interest among collectors and music enthusiasts in Chennai. The bookmark, unearthed from a used book, offers a fascinating snapshot of the brand's popular products during a time when transistors and record players were at the forefront of home entertainment.
The double-sided bookmark showcases two distinct HMV models: the "Tropicana" portable transistor radio and the "Fiesta" record player. The Tropicana, touted as a "4 band deluxe portable transistor," boasts "widespread bands for pinpoint tuning" and a "large elliptical speaker" for superior sound. Its price is listed as Rs. 328*, with local taxes extra.
Beneath the image of the Fiesta record player, the bookmark highlights its features: an "independent 4-speed record player with detachable speaker" and a "solid state amplifier" for high-quality audio. The Fiesta, available in both AC and battery models (9170 and 9766 respectively), is described as having a "smart two-tone square edged cabinet" and is priced at Rs. 300*.
Adding to the nostalgic appeal, the bookmark features the classic HMV logo – the iconic dog Nipper listening to a gramophone – along with the tagline "His Master's Voice." A handwritten message at the top of the bookmark reads "Great to have - great to give - great to listen to - HMV RADIOS - GRAMS - PLAYERS," hinting at its intended use as a promotional item or gift.
"This bookmark is a delightful piece of memorabilia," says Raja, who examined the bookmark. "It takes us back to a time when HMV was synonymous with quality audio and a status symbol in many households. The descriptions and prices give us a glimpse into the consumer market of that era."
The discovery of this bookmark has triggered a wave of nostalgia among Chennai residents, many of whom recall owning or admiring HMV products during their childhood. "My family had an HMV record player, and it was the centerpiece of our living room," recalls Thangavel. "This bookmark brought back so many fond memories."
While the exact origin and date of the bookmark are unknown, its design and the models featured suggest it likely dates back to the late 1960s or early 1970s. The bookmark serves as a reminder of the evolution of music technology and the enduring legacy of the HMV brand in India. It is expected to become a prized item among collectors of vintage ephemera and audio equipment.
The bookmark's discovery has also sparked renewed interest in the history of HMV in India, prompting calls for the preservation of similar artifacts and the documentation of the brand's impact on the country's cultural landscape. This small piece of paper, with its simple message and evocative imagery, has opened a window into a bygone era of music appreciation and technological advancement.
This HMV bookmark isn't just a placeholder for your latest read; it's a fascinating window into the landscape of Carnatic music in a bygone era. The reverse side boasts a tantalizing list of LPs, showcasing a diverse range of instrumental and vocal performances from some of the genre's most iconic artists.
Instrumental Delights: The selection emphasizes the versatility of Carnatic instrumentation. Legendary veena maestro S. Balachander's ECSD 2417 is highlighted, likely a prized recording for collectors. Flute enthusiasts have two choices: the dynamic duo of Kunjumani & Neela (S/33ESX 6026) and the legendary T.R. Mahalingam (EASD 1343). The inclusion of Chitti Babu's "Musings of a Musician" (S/33ESX 6032) suggests a lighter, perhaps more accessible take on the genre. Rounding out the instrumental offerings are the soulful sounds of the nadaswaram, represented by Sheikh Chinna Moulana (S/33ESX 6029) and Namagiripettai Krishnan (S/33ESX 6019), promising a rich and traditional experience.
Vocal Virtuosity: The vocal selections are equally compelling. The legendary M.S. Subbulakshmi's rendition of "Bhaja Govindam & Vishnu Sahasranamam" (MOAE 5011) is undoubtedly a treasure. Madurai Somasundaram (S/33ESX 6030) and the Sulamangalam Sisters (S/33ESX 6031) represent the traditional vocal style, while P. Susheela's "Murugan Pamalai" (ECSD 2425) offers a devotional flavour. Interestingly, the list also includes K.J. Jesudoss (ECSD 2425) with "Modern Songs" in Malayalam, showcasing the crossover appeal of artists even within the Carnatic framework. T.M. Soundararajan's popular devotional songs (ECSD 2433) further demonstrate the range of musical expression represented on this bookmark.
A Treasure Trove for Collectors: Beyond the music itself, the bookmark is a collector's item. The "His Master's Voice" logo and the tagline "music of your choice within your reach" evoke a sense of nostalgia for a time when physical records were the primary means of music consumption. The catalog numbers provide valuable information for record collectors, while the "Brilliant Stereo" and "Carnatic Music" branding highlight the focus on high-quality recordings within a specific genre.
A Glimpse into a Bygone Era: This HMV bookmark is more than just a list of records; it's a historical artifact that offers a glimpse into the vibrant Carnatic music scene of its time. It serves as a reminder of the rich musical heritage of India and the enduring legacy of artists who continue to inspire generations. For both seasoned collectors and those new to Carnatic music, this bookmark is a fascinating and valuable find. It sparks curiosity and encourages exploration of the timeless artistry it represents. It's a small piece of paper that speaks volumes about a golden age of musical expression.
Recently, a fascinating document surfaced, offering a glimpse into the operations of this clandestine radio station. A Police Wireless Monitoring Report dated October 14, 1942, reveals a broadcast by Congress Radio. The report provides details about the station's frequency, transmission time, and the message it conveyed.
The message, delivered in English by a male voice, announced a temporary suspension of broadcasts for a couple of days. It assured listeners that the station would resume its regular programming on October 16th at 7:30 AM and 8:45 PM. The broadcast concluded with the iconic Vande Mataram song, a powerful symbol of Indian nationalism.
Congress Radio played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion against British colonial rule. It bypassed the censorship imposed by the British government and directly reached the masses, spreading news and inspiring them to join the struggle for independence.
The discovery of this document is a significant event in the annals of Indian history. It sheds light on the clandestine operations of Congress Radio and the sacrifices made by its operators.
As we continue to delve deeper into our history, it is essential to preserve such documents and share them with future generations. By doing so, we can honor the legacy of those who fought for India's freedom and inspire future generations to uphold the values of democracy and justice.
Let's continue to explore the rich tapestry of our history and learn from the past to build a brighter future.
If you have any information or documents related to Congress Radio or the Indian Independence Movement, please share them with us. Your contribution will help preserve our history for generations to come.
Would you like me to add any other information or details to this blog post?
The Shortwave Transmitters of SPT, AIR, Bangalore
Shortwave broadcasting, a testament to technological innovation, offers a unique and cost-effective method to reach global audiences over vast distances. Leveraging the power of radio waves, it has been a cornerstone of international communication for decades. Recognizing the enduring potential of this medium, the Government of India initiated a project to strengthen its external services by establishing a state-of-the-art shortwave transmission facility in Bangalore.
A Strategic Location
Bangalore, a city renowned for its technological prowess, was strategically chosen as the site for this ambitious project. Its favorable geographical location and robust infrastructure made it an ideal choice for setting up a high-power shortwave transmission complex. The facility, operated by All India Radio (AIR), houses a network of powerful transmitters capable of broadcasting Indian perspectives and cultural heritage to a global audience.
The heart of the Bangalore complex lies in its six 500-kilowatt shortwave transmitters. These cutting-edge devices, employing Pulse Step Modulation (PSM) technology, are among the most powerful in the world. Their advanced design and digital control systems enable efficient and reliable operation, ensuring seamless transmission of high-quality audio signals.
The complex boasts an impressive aerial system comprising 36 multi-band curtain antennas. These antennas, strategically positioned on towering structures, can be electronically steered to target specific regions of the globe. This flexibility allows for precise beamforming, optimizing signal strength and minimizing interference.
Broadcasting for the World
All India Radio's External Services Division (ESD) utilizes the Bangalore facility to broadcast a diverse range of programs in 23 languages. These programs, tailored to specific target audiences, aim to:
Promote India's perspective on global affairs. By providing insightful analysis and commentary on current events, ESD seeks to foster understanding and cooperation among nations. Strengthen cultural ties. Through the dissemination of Indian music, literature, and traditions, ESD aims to bridge cultural divides and promote intercultural exchange. By providing news, educational programs, and public service announcements, ESD empowers listeners and contributes to social development.
A Legacy of Innovation
The shortwave transmitters at SPT, AIR, Bangalore represent a significant milestone in India's broadcasting history. They stand as a testament to the country's commitment to global communication and cultural exchange. As technology continues to evolve, this facility will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping India's international image and strengthening its connections with the world.
But unfortunately recently they stopped to broadcast lot of languages due to the budget cut.
In the 1920s, Madras (now Chennai) witnessed a pivotal moment in its cultural and technological landscape. The credit for this transformation lies with Rao Bahadur C.V. Krishnaswamy Chetty, a visionary electrical engineer with the Corporation of Madras. Recognizing the potential of radio communication, Chetty spearheaded the establishment of the Madras Presidency Radio Club (MPRC) - the force behind the city's first radio broadcasts.
Chetty's journey began with a personal fascination with wireless technology. While a student at Madras Christian College, he devoured accounts of experiments by pioneers like Marconi. During his studies and subsequent work experience in the UK, his interest deepened as he witnessed the emergence of wireless communication firsthand. Upon returning to India, this passion translated into action.
However, the path to broadcasting wasn't without hurdles. The Government of India initially declined to offer organized radio services. Undeterred, Chetty took the initiative. In 1924, he began rallying public support for a radio club. His efforts culminated in a crucial meeting at the Ripon Buildings, where influential figures like V. Thirumalai Pillai, President of the Corporation of Madras, pledged their support. This meeting laid the foundation for the MPRC.
Chetty served as the club's treasurer and played a key role in securing equipment. The Marconi Company, impressed by his dedication, agreed to lend a transmitter, enabling broadcasts to reach cities beyond Madras. The MPRC's mission, as envisioned by Chetty, was to foster public interest in radio communication and provide access to educational and entertaining programs.
On July 31st, 1924, history was made as the MPRC initiated its first broadcast. This marked the dawn of radio broadcasting in South India. Chetty's unwavering vision and leadership not only brought entertainment and information to homes but also ignited a passion for radio technology among the populace. His contribution rightfully earns him the title of "the father of broadcasting in South India."