Today marks World Radio Day, a celebration of one of the most enduring and influential forms of media. As soon as the radio was switched on this morning, the first sound that greeted listeners was the resonant notes of "Vande Mataram," followed by the invigorating buzz of the morning news. The air was fresh, the day had just begun, and a cup of tea in one hand and a newspaper in the other, the radio became the connection to the world beyond.
In those early hours, the sounds of news from across the globe, along with the latest updates on sports, health information, music, and local affairs resonated through households. Radio was more than just an entertainment tool; it was a window to the country's heritage, with programs focusing on Odisha's history, culture, language, education, sports, and spirituality. It also informed listeners about political developments, local events, and even provided farmers with agricultural updates.
From early morning shows like "Prabhat Parikrama" to "Lokgeet" programs such as Pala, Dasakathia, Ekatar dance, and Chaitighoda dance, the radio has always been a vital part of the cultural landscape. It became a daily companion, spreading awareness and keeping people connected to their community, tradition, and values. People listened intently to news of local happenings, district updates, and even special announcements.
In rural areas, radio has always been more than a source of information; it has been a source of comfort. The elderly, particularly in villages, were known to be avid listeners of the radio. For many, it wasn’t just about listening; it was about the love for the medium itself. Rajendra Sahu (48) from Sahid Nagar, is one such example of this deep-rooted passion. Rajendra, a carpenter by profession, is also a radio enthusiast and has been collecting radios for over 26 years. His small shop, Vintage Radio Specialist, has become a hub for anyone looking to restore or buy radios, especially those with a love for classic models.
For Rajendra, radio is not just a hobby, it’s a lifelong passion. From a young age, he was drawn to the magic of old radios, fascinated by how they could connect people across distances. His love for radios began when he was a child and has only grown with time. In his shop, you will find radios of all kinds—Philips, Panasonic, Murphy, Sony, Sansui, and more. With every new model, Rajendra’s collection expandwd, and he has become a well-known name in the radio restoration and collection community.
In the early days, he would visit local markets to find old radios to restore. His wife, Mamata Sahu, has always supported him in his endeavors, assisting him with finding rare pieces and helping with the restoration of radio. Over the years, Rajendra has accumulated a collection of more than 500 radios, both new and old, which he carefully preserves in his radio museum at home. The collection includes radios that have been out of production for decades, pieces that can no longer be found in the market. Rajendra remarks, “Wherever I go, I look for radios. Every market I visit, I try to bring something new back.”
Rajendra's collection not only showcases his dedication to radio as a medium but also represents a moment in time, a timeline of communication, reflecting the history and cultural evolution of the region. Whether it's a Murphy radio from the 1950s or a Sony model from the 80s, each radio tells its own story.
He dreams of expanding his collection further eventually open a Radio Museum and a listening hall for fellow enthusiasts. Rajendra’s love for radios has made him a local legend.
In this age of digital technology, where radios may have been overtaken by smartphones and streaming services, Rajendra’s dedication is a reminder of the enduring power of this once-ubiquitous medium. For him, and for many like him, radio is not just a tool of the past, but a cherished link to the soul of the community.
