We must not overlook certain individuals in our lives, and the late N.C. Gnanaprakasam (NCG) Sir was undoubtedly one such person. He played a pivotal role in my radio journey, a statement not made lightly.
For eight years, he accompanied me on my All India Radio Chennai station ventures, supporting my studies by granting me the opportunity to work part-time while pursuing my Master's in Journalism at Madras University.
When the idea of initiating a Tamil program akin to the DX PROGRAM, exclusively heard on foreign English radio stations, crossed my mind, Mr. NCG was the first person I thought of. At the time, he served as the program producer for All India Radio's external service, "Thiraikadal Adivarum Tamil Nadham."
Assigned to produce and present the "Radio World" program, he promptly granted permission without hesitation. The 54-week show garnered a global following due to our unique practice of sending the World's Smallest QSL Card to listeners who sent letters and Reception Reports.
Some international listeners even sent US dollars along with their letters, earmarked for purchasing airmail stamps. I vividly recall Mr. NCG's words on that occasion, expressing amazement that people worldwide were contributing dollars for a Tamil radio program.
The program, later titled "World Radios," was published as a book by NCBH, with Mr. NCG being the first to present and commend it.
A ten-page letter of appreciation in English for the "Vanoli Ulagam" program prompted astonishment from the director, Mr. Sreenivasaraghavan. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the letter, written by Mr. Balasubramaniam, marked the beginning of a lasting friendship.
Mr. NCG played a significant role in fostering connections, consistently reaching out whenever my articles appeared in magazines or newspapers. His warmth and affection during those morning calls left an indelible mark.
Our collaborative efforts in documenting the cinema industry, particularly through programs like "Cinema Neram" and "Nenjam Marappathillai" on FM RAINBOW, could fill multiple volumes if written today. Regrettably, no program archives exist due to recordings being on spool tapes.
Memories, such as a Diwali special program with actress Simran, remain etched in my mind. Despite a mishap with the spool tape, Simran's gracious assistance in re-recording the audio conveyed a valuable lesson without reproach.
Numerous recollections flood my thoughts, making it impractical to detail them all here. Reason has been a constant guiding force in my life. The void left by NCG is immeasurable. Who will now call to acknowledge the publication of my articles in the newspaper?
Regardless of the task at hand, NCG consistently sought opinions, irrespective of age, teaching us the importance of seeking counsel.
NCG was recuperating at Salem Gokulam Hospital post-surgery. Regrettably, he departed on Thursday, 25-1-24, at 12:30 am. His remains will be transported to Chennai and kept at Lloyd's Colony house until 3 pm tomorrow.
His loss is irreplaceable, and expressing condolences to his family during this difficult time feels inadequate. My deepest sympathies to Revathi Madam, Sister Karpagam, Sabari, and Mr. Rajamani Sir.
