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.
A Glimpse into Carnatic Music's Golden Age: Backside of the HMV Bookmark Listing
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.
