Thursday, January 25, 2024

The producer of the "World Radio" DX program has passed away.




 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.

Saturday, January 20, 2024

World Radio Day Postcard Released


In commemoration of World Radio Day on February 13, a specially crafted postcard featuring All India Radio's Head Quarter's, published by The Postcards Originals, was unveiled at the 'Salt' book stall (Stall No: 60) during the Chennai Book Fair 2024. Renowned Tamil translator and poet, Anuradha Anand, formally released the postcard, which was then received by the youthful postcrosser, Yazhini. This exclusive World Radio Day postcard is available for purchase on The Postcards Originals website.

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

VOA Picture Postcard on Madurai

 




The most interesting postcards from Voice of America (VOA) are those that capture the essence of the Tamil Nadu experience. These postcards often feature iconic Madurai landmarks, such as the Madurai Meenatch Temple or the Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal, or depict everyday scenes of Madurai life. Some of the most popular VOA postcards include:

Friday, November 03, 2023

Research Book on All India Radio

 

அகில இந்திய வானொலிக்காக ஒரு ஆய்வுப் புத்தகம்.

**

We are now publishing a book on All India Radio, following our success with BBC, CMG Tamil - China Radio International, Radio Veritas Asia , and CIR - Sri Lankan Broadcasting Corporation. We invite articles from radio listeners, journalists, and researchers. Submit articles by November 30, 2023, for publication in a book with an ISBN code.

பிபிசி, சீன வானொலி, வேரித்தாஸ் வானொலி மற்றும் இலங்கை வானொலிகளைத் தொடர்ந்து தற்பொழுது அகில இந்திய வானொலிக்காக மற்றும் ஒரு ஆய்வுப் புத்தகம்.

நேயர்கள், ஊடகவியலாளர்கள் மற்றும் ஆய்வாளர்களிடம் இருந்து கட்டுரைகளை வரவேற்கிறோம். கட்டுரையை 30-11-2023 முன் அனுப்பி வைக்கலாம்.

தெரிவு செய்யப்படும் கட்டுரைகள் ISBN குறியீட்டுடன் வெளியிடப்படும்


Saturday, October 28, 2023

Book Review: The Untapped Potential of Ham Radio: All about Amateur Radio by S. Suri - VU2MY & Tom K. Jose, VU2TO

 

The book "The Untapped Potential of Ham Radio: All about Amateur Radio" by S. Suri - VU2MY is a comprehensive and informative guide to the world of amateur radio. Written in a clear and concise style, the book covers all aspects of ham radio, from the basics of radio waves and propagation to the latest technologies and applications.

OM Suri and Tom begins by introducing the reader to the history of ham radio and its many benefits. He then goes on to explain the different types of ham radio licenses and how to obtain one. Once the basics are covered, OM Suri delves into more technical topics, such as radio equipment, antennas, and operating procedures.

One of the strengths of this book is its focus on the untapped potential of ham radio. OM Suri and Tom argues that ham radio is more than just a hobby; it is a valuable tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, including emergency communication, education, and scientific research. He provides numerous examples of how ham radio has been used to make a positive impact on the world.

Another strength of the book is its comprehensiveness. OM Suri covers virtually every aspect of ham radio, from the basics to the most advanced topics. This makes the book an ideal resource for both beginners and experienced hams alike.

Overall, "The Untapped Potential of Ham Radio: All about Amateur Radio" is an excellent book that I highly recommend to anyone interested in learning more about ham radio. It is well-written, informative, and comprehensive.

Here are some specific things that I liked about the book:

* OM Suri's passion for ham radio is evident throughout the book. He is clearly excited about the subject and his enthusiasm is contagious.

* The book is well-organized and easy to read. OM Suri & Tom does a good job of explaining complex concepts in a clear and concise way.

* The book is packed with information. OM Suri covers everything from the basics of radio waves to the latest technologies and applications.

* The book includes a number of real-world examples of how ham radio has been used to make a positive impact on the world.

If you are interested in learning more about #ham #radio, I highly recommend "The Untapped Potential of Ham Radio: All about #Amateur Radio" by S. #Suri - #VU2MY & #Tom Jose #VU2TO. It is an excellent resource for both beginners and experienced hams alike.

If you want to purchase the book:

S.Sure, 5-B, P.S. Nagar, Hyderabad-500057, India, suri7388@hotmail.com, 9848131733 (only SMS)


Sunday, November 27, 2022

Broadcasting related definitive stamp from India Post!



இரண்டு வகையான அஞ்சல் தலைகளை இந்திய அஞ்சல் துறை வெளியிட்டு வருகிறது. அவை Commemarative Stamp and Definitive Stamp. 1988ல் தொலைக்காட்சி ஒளிபரப்பினை மையப்படுத்தி இந்த definitive அஞ்சல் தலையை 40 பைசாவுக்கு வெளியிட்டது. தற்பொழுது மீடியா தொடர்பான அஞ்சல் தலை சேகரிப்பாளர்கள் மத்தியில் மிகவும் விரும்பி வாங்கும் அஞ்சல் தலையாக இது உள்ளது. 40 பைசா அஞ்சல் தலை இன்று ரூ.10.00 க்கு விற்கப்படுகிறது. அடேங்கப்பா! எத்தனை மடங்கு அதிகமாகிவிட்டது!!

There are two types of postage stamps issued by the Indian Postal Department. They are Commemorative Stamp and Definitive Stamp. In 1988, the definitive postage stamp was issued for 40 paise, focusing on television broadcasts. It is currently the most sought-after stamp among media-related stamp collectors. A 40 paisa stamp is selling for Rs.10.00 today. Atengappa! How many times more!!
Credit: @hazeemmohammed

#indiapost #broadcasting #stamp #philatelic #philatelist #philately #tv #dish #transmitter