World Radio Day: Saluting the resilience of the century-old medium

“Let’s hope you never leave, old friend

Like all good things, on you we depend

So stick around, ’cause we might miss you

When we grow tired of all this visual”

- ‘Radio Ga Ga’ by Queen

Crackle and pop. Those nostalgic sounds instantly conjure up images of tuning the dial, waiting for your favourite program to come on the air. Today, February 13, is celebrated as World Radio Day, a day dedicated to this enduring medium that has informed, entertained, and connected us for over a century.

The theme this year, ‘Radio: A Century of Information, Entertainment, and Education’, reflects the vast journey radio has taken. From its humble beginnings as a scientific marvel to its omnipresence in homes and cars, radio has witnessed and documented major historical events, shared countless stories, and delivered vital information to listeners across the globe.

While we might associate radio with its golden age of news broadcasts and captivating dramas, it is crucial to remember its continued relevance in today’s digital landscape. Industry leaders echo this sentiment...

Ashit Kukian, CEO, Radio City, emphasises the resilience and innovation, saying, “Radio is resilient and constantly evolving, and hence, innovating relevant strategies to stay ahead of the game is key for us. This year, on World Radio Day, Radio City is celebrating ‘100 saal radiopanti ke!’ with our ‘radigitalization’ approach. Digital platforms have broadened radio’s reach and enabled us to expand beyond the 39 locations in which we currently operate. Approximately 88% of Millennials and Gen Xers listen to the radio because of its local flavour, making it an engaging and trustworthy medium. As India’s first private radio station and having been in operation for the past 24 years, we are convinced that Radio City will continue to entertain and inspire its listeners throughout the years to come.”

Abe Thomas, CEO, Reliance Broadcast Network Ltd acknowledges the enduring impact and adaptation of radio, stating, “On this World Radio Day, we honour radio’s century-long impact in informing, entertaining and connecting global communities. From historical significance to vital roles in emergencies, radio remains a beacon of connectivity, preserving cultures and transcending boundaries. Today, considering technological advancement, radio caters to all age groups, by integrating AI, Gamification and Digitalization. Furthermore, through its personalised content curation, interactive engagement and digital platforms, radio networks not only adapt but thrive, ensuring relevance and resonance in the digital age. Let’s continue harnessing its power to inform, inspire and unite.”

Nisha Narayanan, COO & Director, Red FM & Magic FM noted, "Radio is the timeless medium that holds a special place in my heart. From its humble beginnings as a beacon of information and entertainment in media dark areas to its evolution into a community-driven platform, radio has always been there, connecting people in ways that defy distance and time.

There's a certain magic to radio, isn't there? It's like a whispered conversation with a dear friend, a comforting presence in moments of solitude. I remember the days when listeners would send in postcards, eagerly requesting their favorite songs, each request a testament to the power of music. Also, last year it completed 100 historic years, which speaks volumes for the medium. 

And now, in the rapidly evolving age of social media, radio continues to hold space, adapting and embracing new technologies while staying true to its roots. It's a medium that speaks to us personally, yet has the ability to unite communities, sparking conversations and nurturing connections.

But what truly sets radio apart is its unwavering reliability. In times of crisis, when other forms of communication falter, radio remains steadfast, a lifeline of information and comfort. Its hyperlocal nature ensures that it remains deeply rooted in the communities, offering a sense of belonging and shared experience.

And let's not forget the power of imagination that radio ignites within us. So here's to radio, our eternal companion."