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Welcome to Our Community Page for Radio lovers - Unveiling the Faces Behind the Frequencies!

Welcome to Our Community Radios Page  – Unveiling the Faces Behind the Frequencies!

Discover the heartbeat of our dynamic community on this specially crafted page dedicated to radio enthusiasts like you. Beyond showcasing an impressive array of radios, this space is a celebration of the individuals who breathe life into the airwaves.

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Connecting Faces to Radios: Engage with Our Community!

Explore the stories, insights, and diverse experiences of our community members who bring a unique blend of knowledge and enthusiasm to the world of radio. From seasoned experts to newcomers, this page is a canvas for sharing, connecting, and celebrating the passion that unites us.

A Platform to Connect: Forge Friendships and Share Stories!

Not just a showcase, this page is a platform for connection. Connect with fellow enthusiasts, exchange ideas, and build new friendships. Share your own radio anecdotes or dive into conversations about your favorite broadcasts. Our community thrives on shared passion, and this is where that passion takes center stage.

Why Radio Matters: Unveiling Personal Perspectives!

Explore the diverse reasons why radio is indispensable to our community members. Whether it’s the nostalgic crackle of a cherished station, the thrill of discovering new frequencies, or the sense of connection through the airwaves, radio holds a unique significance for each of us. These stories spotlight the myriad ways in which radio has become an integral part of our lives.

Join Our Community – Connect, Explore, and Share Your Unique Radio Story!

Thank you for being a vital part of our community. Amplify your voice, connect with others, and celebrate the magic of radio on this community radios page. Your unique radio story deserves to be heard! Connect with us, explore, and let the world resonate with your passion for radio.

Discover Inspiring Radio Stories from Our Amazing Community!

Thank you for entrusting us with your unique radio experiences! We’re thrilled to feature your captivating radio stories on our page,
showcasing the vibrant tapestry of our incredible community.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us – where every story, every moment, and every shared experience enriches the essence of our community. Explore, connect, and let the world hear your voice through the captivating narratives of fellow radio enthusiasts.

Happy World Radio Day 2024!

In the spirit of World Radio Day, we asked you to share your radio stories, memories, and pictures with us, and we have been absolutely blown away by the response. Your emails filled with captivating tales and stunning images have touched our hearts and reaffirmed the incredible impact that radio has on our lives.

From nostalgic recollections of listening to your favorite broadcasts late into the night to heartwarming stories of how radio has connected you with people and cultures from around the globe, each submission has been a testament to the enduring power of this medium.

All the stories and faces behind the radio can be found here – enjoy reading:

Paul Griffin, Canada

My Dad was a radio guy too. At home at 16 , I had a 30 metre lone long wire grounded antenna.The radio too was grounded through the radiator on my right That one in, my first photo was my first new shortwave radio. The rest Dad and i cobbled together from console models from the 40s and 50s. I listened to News, music and propaganda. Now as in photo #2, I live in a area of high QRM thanks to the computer hard drives around here in constant action. The Eton 750 is mobile. Come Summer, I will take it out of Toronto to place where the QRM is low and another long wire antenna that I can deploy.

Bob Coomler W7SWL, Tucson, AZ, USA

The picture on the left was submitted by 10 year old me to Popular Electronics and published in the June 1957 edition (Hank Bennett’s „Tuning the Short-Wave Bands“ column).  My brother had introduced me to DXing and amateur radio some time before and I was definitely smitten with it all.   We went in different geographic directions, but by that time I had my own radio toys and he kept the Hallicrafters S-76 receiver. A couple of years ago, he became a SK and I was asked to go through his electronic belongings. Much to my surprise, he still had the S-76, the Webster-Chicago wire recorder and even the WW II headphones. Being a good radio dweeb, I still had the same SWBC QSLs that were in the original picture. Duplicating the that earlier picture was an instant no-brainer!  The equipment and operator have shown „some“ ageing, but it was great fun recreating the photo. And yes, one edition or another of the WRTH has always been there.

Christine Reif, Germany

In my teenage years, there was no MTV, YouTube or Spotify. As far as music TV was concerned, television was still „behind the moon“, which is why I spent most of my afternoons and evenings listening to the radio, my gateway to the world. My declared favorite show at that time was „Pop nach Acht“, which saved my young life every Monday to Friday evening from the dull world of adults 🙂

Rakesh Rao, India

My name is Rakesh I am from India radio gives me good knowledge, education information, culture, government schemes,job opportunities, and good communication skills of language I devloped by listening radio announcer speeches and also got good friends and many radio contest prizes

Paolo De Berti, Switzerland

My name is De Berti Paolo, I live in southern Switzerland and I have been listening to hf since 1975. During this period I started listening to hf and in particular broadcasting. I had several rx Yaesu FRG7, IC R 70, Kenwood R 1000, 2000 and 500 receivers, then I started with the JRC 515, 525, 535, 545. Later I started with the SDR receivers.  As antennas I have always used long wires of around 30m, currently I also use loop antennas.  I have seen the decline of hf and for some years I have also been listening to digital systems utility stations. My actually rx: SdrPlay RSP duo / Airspy HF +/ MLA30 loop antenna / long wire 30m. I think hf are always interesting

Eric Keller, Fortuna, California, USA

My name is Eric Keller and I live in Fortuna, California. My radio is a Winradio Excalibur Pro that I have added to with software programs I have made. My antenna is a 10-30 MHz Log Periodic. I am a retired software engineer and this is my dream shack. I have been a shortwave listener since 1967 and I still get a thrill and think it is magic that I can hear someone 12,000 miles away with just air in between. I also own about a dozen other shortwave radios including several Drakes, a Collins R-390A, and a 1927 Pilot Super Wasp.

Terry Kelly K5NGD

Here is my current shack! I started SWL in 1965 when my beloved Brother in Law Phil Nugent gave me an Emerson Transistor Radio for Christmas. It had a shortwave band and I soon discovered that one could hear broadcasts from all over the world. It wasnt very selective but it pulled in the big ones. I can still remember the first time I heard the Interval Signal for Radio RSA “ The Voice of South Africa“! I was hooked for life.

Me and my grand dog “ Flower“ listening to WRMI on my 1936 RCA Model 9k3. I have had it since the 8th grade. Been rebuilt a couple of times.  Works like it just came off the showroom floor!

Me and my Radio companion “ Sweepie“

Adrian Micallef, Malta

Hi ,my name is Adrian ,and I am from the island of Malta.

When I was a kid ,I would take my grandfather’s portabile radio ,a JVC nivico casette player and listen to the radio . It was my world ,and still it is . I would write down all that I heard from the radio . And the passion grew , by time ,I would by radio sets , new and second hand one ,my grandfather would bring me radio sets no one wanted more
Today ,my collection stands at 319 items ,all working . This is my world ,listening at night to the radio ,mainly mw,LW and short wave frequencies ,always a thrill to find new radio stations ,and listening to the radio stations I like more . With the advent of social media ,I found out I m not alone ,I am in many groups ,found new friends and interact with them , sharing our knowledge and experience . 
Nostalgic moments I still remember ,taking my radios with me by the sea when I was young ,with everyone enjoying listening .

Muhammad Saleem Akhtar, Pakistan

I am a listener of radio. SW is my favorite medium. I got a lot of information about world countries, different cultures, many languages and much more from Radio. Radio is my teacher, my best friend and well wisher .
Here is my  picture with my my friend during celebrating WRD 2023. 
I am always happy with my unique friend who has given me many friends all around the world like WRTH. 
Thanks a lot.

 

Jörg Möschler, Germany

I’ve been sitting in front of the radio for a long time 🙂
Even as a child I sat in front of the radio and knew ABBA and similar hits. Later, curiosity led me to turn the tuning knob. I was particularly fascinated by FM with its changing, sometimes impressive ranges. Also had a phase of interest in worldwide reception on shortwave (there was no internet yet). Geographical knowledge and cosmopolitanism stood me in good stead.
I joined the UKWTV-Arbeitskreis over 30 years ago and have known the FMLIST ever since. VHF wave hunting (DX) became my most fascinating hobby.  I have an antenna system on the roof and go on trips and holidays to receive.

Vagn Fentz, Hjørring, Denmark.

When after World War Two international broadcasting really opened up, Oluf Lund Johansen saw the need for a World Radio Handbook and I as a schoolboy was lucky in getting a phenomenal British-made Cossor 464 receiver. That brought us together as he wanted help in compiling the first editions.

Ever since, the shortwaves have been my principal hobby – and a fountain of world knowledge and the English language. Since 1981 I have used a Yaesu FRG-7700. The decline of SW broadcasting caused by satellites and the Internet coincides with my increasing age but I maintain my „technical corner“ and I still keep abreast of the radio world through the WRTH.

I wish the new publishers of the WRTH all the best.                 

Gérard Koopal, Netherlands

Hereby an old foto of my receivingstation: Kenwood r 5000 and sangean 909 both connected to 15 meters LW with MLB.
 

 

Marc Soens, Belgium

My story start in the early sixties when my late father was already bussy with building his own radio’s and sharing us the strange noises comming out of his hobbyroom. When we got a little older my father invited us to learn more and play with scrap radios how to salvage them for recycled use. He also build for us a xtal diode receiver.
At that point it was a seed planted for my future life.
I went to technical school for electronics and in the early 70ties I put my small steps in becomming a SWL.

till I remember the hardship I had not understanding the full language beside my own.
Writing SWL reports was done in old school with typewriter and sending them out cast a big chunk from my pocket-money.
Oh yes internet at that time was only S.F. so no report or eQSL.
Imagine how long we had to wait to get a reply back, sometimes no letters came back at all.
The older we got the more experienced we got in speaking foreign languages.
When 18  (1980) I joined the army core as radio operator and became official a radio HAM (still listener) it would last till 1994 before I got my official Belgian TX licence.
With my first salary savings I remember me buying a old Sommerkamp FR101 and Realistic DX300. Lateron the FRG7 joined in.
For many years I had big fun in doing radio. Radio was also my relaxing time at he evening hours doing bridge watch on the ship while one anker.
And as the years pass by, my life got older, radio’s have been replaced but one thing stayed „my life time passion“ of listening to radio SW broadcast.
We have seen progress, the Internet and the ways to find stuff, the easy way to send in reports via email. Life has become electronicaly fast.
Sadly we must see with our eyes and ears that many of those long standing stations have close their transmitters and let down their antennes and went over to blogs on the internet.
Lucky for us you have now emerging pirat sw station broadcasting in the weekends.
Running on my last legs in a marathon, retired of the working force most of my time (if available) I try to monitor the bands and listen to my favorit stations.
I’m almost 62 now and I can look over a nice bunch of radios:downstairs at the kitchen table I have a Sangean ATS909x2,upstair in my radio room there stand a VR5000 (Yaesu), FT710 (Yaesu), TS2000 (Kenwood), IC9700 (Icom), IC7300 (Icom), FRG8800 (Yaesu) and several SRD/RTL with Rpi4.I can grab back to the use of 3 SW antennes a 40m LW; a 6band Hexbeam and a 25m LW laundry line.I do take great care of my received paper QSl cards or those eQSL’s.Radio has always been very important for me because it keeps my information on world politic open but also a window to other cultures.
And when at holidays it keeps me connected with my homefront. Radio also shapes friendships or relations and a bond with the speakers DJ’s, its always fine feeling when you hear they mention your report or letter.
 
Radio is the beginning and the end, they can say all what they want of being old fashion but take it from me when the internet is down you still can rely on your SW radio for information.
 
Please have enclosed some pictures of me and my radioroom & gear.

Malik Allah Bachaya Khokhar, Muzaffargarh, Pakistan 

Radio has woven itself into the fabric of human history, leaving an indelible mark on society. From its inception to the digital age, radio has served as a vital tool for communication, entertainment, and education. Its ongoing utilitarian value is evident in its ability to reach remote areas with important information, provide emergency alerts, and deliver diverse programming to listeners worldwide.
 

 

Moreover, radio plays a crucial role in upholding democratic values by fostering freedom of expression and promoting public discourse. Through talk shows, interviews, and debates, radio provides a platform for individuals to voice their opinions, discuss pressing issues, and hold authorities accountable. In many countries, community radio stations serve as grassroots platforms for marginalized groups to share their perspectives and advocate for social change.
 
Furthermore, radio has historically been a catalyst for social movements, empowering communities to mobilize and advocate for their rights. Whether broadcasting revolutionary messages during times of political upheaval or amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, radio has been a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity and social justice.
 
In today’s digital landscape, radio continues to evolve, adapting to new technologies and changing listener preferences. Online streaming, podcasting, and social media integration have expanded the reach of radio, making it more accessible and interactive than ever before.
 
In essence, the ongoing utilitarian and democratic value of radio lies in its ability to inform, inspire, and unite people across borders and generations. As we navigate an increasingly complex world, radio remains a beacon of connectivity, resilience, and hope.

Bidhan Chandra Sanyal, India

„World Radio Day (English: World Radio Day; French: Le jour mondial de la radio) is an international day celebrated on February 13 every year.  The aim of the day is to raise awareness among the public and the media about the importance of radio, to ensure the availability of radio information to decision makers and to strengthen international cooperation and mutual exchange of views and information among radio broadcasters.

n 2014, the 36th session of the UNESCO General Conference declared 13th February as World Radio Day.  In 2011, following a proposal by Spain’s Academia Española de Radio, based on a feasibility study conducted by UNESCO, UNESCO’s Executive Council recommended the declaration of World Radio Day to the General Assembly.  Note that on 13 February 1946, the United Nations‘ own radio station began its journey.[1]

Radio is a mass media in the world which has more reach than any other mass media.  It is recognized as both a powerful communication tool and a cost-effective medium.  Wireless has no substitute for reaching remote communities and vulnerable populations (populations with low literacy rates, persons with disabilities, women, youth, and those living in poverty).  At the same time it is a forum for people’s participation in public debate irrespective of the level of institutional education.  Moreover, wireless has a strong and specific role in emergency communication and disaster relief.  Today, the trend of homogenization of various media has increased, so wireless services are also adapting to new forms of technology, emerging in different forms such as broadband internet, mobile phones and tablets.  Despite this, it is said that nearly 1 billion people around the world still do not have access to wireless service.

However, every year World Radio Day is celebrated with a theme.  And that theme is decided by UNESCO. This year’s theme for World Radio Day is Radio: A Century Informing, Entertaining and Educating.

Once this medium was our only form of entertainment.  Many things may be lost in the course of time.  But some affection, some love is never lost.  If not, pushing the crowd of many memories, he becomes a poem and says, ‚I am your past.‘  Whom you left far far away.  I didn’t leave you because I love you, I gave my all effortlessly, I built your past, present.  Then I arranged your future.  I didn’t want anything in return.  But why do you neglect it?  All around your friends now.  Am I none of yours?  I was not – is anyone?

Honestly, he was my someone.  So even if I forget many things, I can’t forget him.  He hugs me like my first love.  I still cling to him because I can’t forget him.

When I was a child, the other girls of the house, including my mother, used to sit together and listen to radio plays every night with the radio in the middle.  „Prafulla“, „Hungry for Septopas“, „Saheb“, „Naranarayan“, „Tapti“, „Rakta Kamal“, „Jhangha“, „Baikunther Khata“, „Khudith Pashan“ are numerous plays.  Not only on Sundays, on Fridays at eight o’clock there was a radio play. On Wednesday evenings there was a journey.  what a performance  Those memories are true today.  Famous theater personalities Virendra Kishore Bhadra, Jagannath Bose, Ajitesh Banerjee, Vani Kumar, Urmimala Bose, Paran Banerjee, Shukla Banerjee etc.  And Mahalaya – Today and on the radio, Virendra Krishna Bhadra’s timeless creation „Mahishasuramardini“ is heard by many.

So much for the local radio.  But the wireless freaks didn’t stop here, they don’t stop there.  They listen to various radios from the outside world.  It can be called a royal hobby.  This hobby is called DXing.

DXing, derived from dx, telegraphic shorthand for „distance“ or „distant“, or other two-way radio communication.  Many DXers also attempt written verification of reception or communication, sometimes referred to as „QSLs“ or „veries“.

DXing started in the early days of radio broadcasting.  Listeners would mail „reception reports“ to radio broadcasting stations in hopes of receiving a written acknowledgment or a QSL card that served as official verification that they had heard a distant station.  Collecting these cards became popular with radio listeners in the 1920s and 1930s, and reception reports were often used by early broadcasters to measure the effectiveness of their transmissions.  Although international shortwave broadcasting is declining, DXing is still popular among dedicated shortwave listeners.  The pursuit of two-way communication between remote amateur radio operators is also a significant activity in the amateur radio hobby.

The fun of listening to programs in one’s mother tongue on foreign radio is different.  Some radio English programs are also quite popular.  Notable foreign radio stations include BBC, Voice of America, Deutsche Welle, CRY, Radio Moscow, Radio Japan, KBS, Radio Taiwan International, Radio France, Radio Romania International, Voice of Korea, Voice of Mongolia, Voice of Vietnam, Radio Slovakia.  , Radio Tehran etc. etc.

Many radio stations these days do Internet broadcasting in addition to radio broadcasting.  But DXers prefer listening through radio.  And when the hearing is interrupted, slap and jot the wireless device on the forehead.

Due to the dominance of mobile and TV, the number of radio stations has decreased slightly, but there are still many listeners.  Those who listen know the fun of it.  Therefore, the United Nations UNESCO encourages the observance of Radio Day.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also used the radio medium to promote his government.  Regularly continuing the Man Ki Baat program.

Over the past few years, my relationship with Radio  has deepened considerably.  I can’t goa day without listening to Radio . Radio has become my soul mate.“

Ejaz Kareem , Sheikhupura, Pakista

„My name is Ejaz kareem , I am from Sheikhupura Pakistan listening SW Radio programs since 1990. In am sharing my story with you.
Radio’s Enduring Impact on My Life

Since 1990, radio has been more than just a medium for me; it has been a steadfast companion, an endless wellspring of knowledge, entertainment, and connection. As Ejaz Kareem from Sheikhupura, Pakistan, I have traversed through decades with the comforting presence of radio waves, each broadcast carrying its own unique charm and significance.

The importance of radio in my life cannot be overstated. It has been a beacon of information, reliably disseminating news updates, cultural insights, and educational content. In a world where the pace of life seems to accelerate with each passing day, radio provides a steady anchor, offering a respite from the chaotic digital landscape. Whether I’m at home, commuting, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, radio accompanies me, filling the airwaves with its enriching melodies and thought-provoking discussions.

One of the most thrilling aspects of radio is the serendipity of discovering new stations. With a simple twist of the dial, I am transported to distant lands, exposed to diverse musical genres, languages, and perspectives. The joy of stumbling upon a hidden gem, whether it’s a local folk music station or an underground talk show, is unparalleled. Radio has expanded my cultural horizons, broadening my understanding of the world and fostering a deep appreciation for its diversity.

Nostalgia, too, plays a profound role in my relationship with radio. Each station carries with it a myriad of memories, evoking emotions long forgotten. The crackle of vinyl records, the warmth of analog broadcasts, and the familiar voices of radio personalities from years gone by transport me to simpler times. Tuning into my favorite shows invokes a sense of nostalgia, reconnecting me with cherished moments and shaping my identity in profound ways.

Moreover, radio fosters a sense of community unlike any other medium. Through call-in shows, listener feedback, and local programming, radio creates a virtual gathering space where individuals from all walks of life can come together to share their stories, opinions, and experiences. Whether it’s discussing current events, debating social issues, or simply sharing a laugh, radio bridges geographic and cultural divides, fostering connections that transcend boundaries.

In essence, radio is not just a means of communication; it is a lifeline, weaving itself into the fabric of my existence and enriching my daily experiences. From the thrill of discovering new stations to the nostalgia of tuning into familiar broadcasts and the sense of community it fosters, radio has left an indelible mark on my life, shaping my worldview and providing solace in times of uncertainty. As I continue my journey with radio by my side, I am reminded of its enduring power to inform, entertain, and unite us all

I have 65 radio sets in my collection. i am sending your the picture of my Radio collection and my set up. I love Radio“

Najim Uddin, India

Even after almost two long decades I could easily recall that fine morning, in the year of 1991, which ushered as a remarkable parlance in my life .I was thence pursuing my intermediate studies and at the brisk of adolescence. It started with the arrival of a small vehicle, rather which could be named as a “mobile-van” distributing small pamphlets or selling them at minimum cost for the rural localities, to preach the fables and sayings of Christianity.

At a quirk, I collected some of those booklets and after filling up the postcards at given therein, I send it to the addressees, for receiving free lessons on Bible and allied studies. The keenness of innocence gradually transformed into a discrete feeling, with the receipt of response from the other end within a very short while.

Precisely, I used to go through the radio-broadcastings from BBC, Voice of America or Radio Tehran, along with other family members. However, this way or the other, I never wrote to those Radio Stations, not only due to lack of knowledge in this trait, but also largely due to financial constraints of pocket-money during those years. But the latent zeal took-off with a friend’s support, when I sent my first letter and a wanton reply, paved my footsteps into the world of “DXing”.

“DXing” literally does not mean “faraway listening”-here “D” word denotes Distance, and “X” denotes unknown station. In a nutshell, the immaculate charm to capture radio-signals from unknown stations, outside normal coverage areas, through radio-sets is implied as DXing-and those hobbyists are called DX-ers. Looking far back to its origin, famous explorer and navigator Columbus, was an illustrious DX-er. Essentially, through this, the DX-er and the broadcaster get an ample opportunity to share their respective views and opinions, which in turn, qualifies both of the flanks. The feedbacks, comments and advices from the DX-ers also delivers the prospect for further up gradation or development of programs of the Radio Stations, and fosters better experiences for the listeners.

As a matter-of-fact, the DX-ers can enjoy the world of radio-broadcasting -whether it is States-Japan-America-Nigeria or Bosnia, they can easily hear their music or sounds and enjoy, with their radio-knobs at their fingertips.

So started my exploration of my own world-world of radios. Whenever I get into it, I used to start with listening sounds of radio-waves and keeping the knob in a static mode, used to identify the place form where it is being broadcasted, the frequency and the language used therein-And very truly, each time I explored them with success, I came across information and knowledge which steered incessant joy within myself.

The days passed and so increased my DX-ing hobby-sometimes with support of my DXer friends, both within the country and abroad. The insatiable enthusiasm surmounted the unavailability of a radio-set, or lack of money to write letters to those people around. However, I could continue with my love-hobby as I managed to collect one dilapidated radio-set, and somehow one day could get in with  Radio Veritas Asia (Urdu Service) and Radio Thailand address (to send reception report),which are really remarkable accomplishments  those early days.

Gradually, I succeeded to collected QSL Cards from various Radio stations, across the world-along with Stickers, View-Cards, Calendars, Program & Frequency Schedules, Badge, Key-rings, Stamps, Balloons, Audio Cassettes, CD/DVD, Writing-pads, Pens, Books and Magazines, Pennants and such other innumerable items, which have truly accumulated my affection towards the hobby of DX-ing. Over the years, as I have advanced my academics from school to University, I have never ever lost my identity as a Radio Listener, and that also in a very conscious manner-as a concerted effort, may it be in a slow pace.

        

Till today, I have received countless number of rewards and accolades, as a part of radio-competitions or telephonic interviews-may it be as a Best radio-listener or such other occasions. To mention Some of them would not be an exaggeration at this end-e.g., Digital Radios, I-Pad, T-shirt, table or cushion covers, wrist watch, wall-clocks, books on foreign languages(German, Japanese, Chinese, Russian or French),books on Koran, diaries, hankies, rucksacks etc. The two rewards I consider to be unsurpassed are-my voyage to Islamic republic of Iran, and secondly the award from  Deutsche Welle as a best listener of radio-club.To mention a few one, broadcaster from Tehran(Radio-Tehran) used to read-out my personal views and opinions, at regular intervals. They used to focus thesensible facet of “Humanity”- to focus on all of their Programs and events and make elaborations on  modern-day notions and pertinence of Islam-which in all ways elucidates  their nobility.In this context, I came across innumerable friends and people throughout the world, and in the course of time developed  a close relationship with presenters. To augment, I also had the esteemed opportunity to receive the long-time Achievement from Radio-Tehran, namely “Certificate of Merit” and “Best Radio listener” on the eve of celebration of their 1stGlobal Radio & Television Festival and visited Islamic Republic of Iran, in the year of 2002, on their invitation, which was a prestigious honour for any hobbyists. It would be apposite to share this experience about my trip to Tehran, one day.

To mention, Deutsche Welle (Germany)has proved itself to be one noteworthy performer amongst the contemporary Broadcasters around the world(though of few years ago, the sort-wave broadcast has stopped).From my personal  standpoint, Deutsche Welle has steadily shared my life and experiences over the rifts of coffee-table and eventually, rewarded us(our Listeners Club) with a  digital Radio set(Grundig) and Certificate of Honour, in the year 2006.These events have elucidated our experiences our views about the Deutsche Welle alongside, friendships and recognitions(Uganda-Ethiopia or Poland-Canada or adjacent countries like Nepal or Bangladesh) have assorted my repute and affection towards  the hobby of DX-ing.

Hari Madugula, Hyderabad, India

„Greetings from Hyderabad, India!

World Radio Day has been celebrated on February 13 every year since 2012.  Radio is a powerful medium for celebrating humanity in all its diversity. 

In India, rural folk enjoy radio especially, which is part and parcel of their life. 

The theme for 2024 is “Radio: A century informing, entertaining and educating.” This theme perfectly highlights the remarkable history of radio, its relevant present, and the promising future to cater to the world with information, entertainment and educational content.

We from the listeners club located in Hyderabad, India, offer our experiences about Radio to associate in the celebrations of WRD2024.

—-

In the Past:

We have so many memories of the radio.  When we wake up in the morning during the 1970’s and 1980’s, other than the newspaper radio is the alternative media through which we come to know about the latest news updates in local language. 

There will be the news, inspiring devotional songs, youth programmes, farmers programmes and special interviews on education, culture, and social developments. 

It enriches the knowledge of children by listening to various programmes through radio. 

Children of rural villages are lucky to have the radio as the special media in the olden days. 

During my childhood I was inspired by the All India Radio Local AM Channel news, devotional and folk songs.

I remember, during those days we used to pay the license fee for the radio set we own in the local Post Office.

We used to receive BBC ‘London Calling’ magazine every month. ‘Hello Frineds’ and ‘Tune In’ magazines from Deutsche Welle.

Radio Netherlands “Media Network” hosted by Jonathan Marks and “Happy Station Show – smiles across the Miles” hosted by Tom Meyer; Radio Sweden International’s “Sweden Calling DXers” – a memory for us old shortwave listeners.

Almost all Radio Stations used to send us programme schedules, magazines and souvenirs including small souvenirs.  Even Radio Cairo’s ‘Learn Arabic’ language course books were so useful for the language learning listeners.

Present:

  • I started my hobby of Shortwave Radio listening during the early ‘80s with the Telugu language programme of Radio Moscow and had lot of correspondence with the Radio Moscow Friends club Section.
  • Got my first QSL from Radio Prague in the year 1982 and during the 80’s and 90’s I collected more than 2000 QSL cards from different shortwave broadcasters.
  • Got my DX Diploma from Radio Prague and Radio Berlin International.
  • Was a Member of Belgium Radio Listeners Club
  • ·Was a Member of Radio Berlin International Listeners Club.
  • Provided service as Technical Monitor for WYFR, Family Radio.

Our Club YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB was registered by Voice of America and it was an amazing experience to receive a lot of mails, books and goodies from the VOA Listener clubs Coordinator Marie Celeberti from VOA.  We have received WRTH also from VOA for a couple of years during ‘80s.

It’s a wonderful moment for me when I received the GRUNDIG YACHTBOY 80 PLL World Band Receiver from Deutsche Welle English Service in December-2005, through the German Consulate in Chennai, India. Our club name has been drawn out of the hat in their monthly draw, as our club letter sent in December, 2005 to Deutsche Welle English Service was selected winning this World Band Receiver. 

Our club was also registered by Radio Veritas Asia, Deutsche Welle Hindi Service, the then Radio Berlin International,  Voice of Russa Hindi Service, RFI Listeners Clubs.

We were fortunate enough to receive so many souvenirs, books, pictorial magazines, cards, calendars, posters and different QSL cards from Radio Berlin International.  Now it is not in existence.  All those were magical days when we used to get the shortwave signal with SINPO rating of 55555. 

FEBC Radio International, FEBA Radio, Radio Veritas Asia through they mainly concentrated their broadcasts focusing on religious issues but getting QLS and other souvenirs was always a pleasure for us.

Several times, our club has received telephone calls from the DW Hindi Programme team and our telephone interviews about the club activities have been broadcasted through their Hindi programmes.

With the support of RFI sometime back, we have organised awareness programmes in local schools and distributed the pens to school children.

Associating with Deutsche Welle ‘my-dw’ programme, we have organised health camp in Visakhapatnam and the details of the said health camp can be assessed at : https://corporate.dw.com/de/young-stars-radio-club/a-16779292

Our club members regularly participate in the contests organised by different international broadcasters.

We’re honoured at YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB, Hyderabad, India when WRTH recognised our listeners club and added at “Clubs for Dxers’ page during the year 2008 and 2021.

Now Radio France International’s “the sound kitchen” programme is the best one hosted by Susan Owensby among all other radio broadcasts.  It has weekly quiz contests, listeners corner, music, etc.

Future of the Radio:

  • With advancements in technology, now we are able to listen to radio online.
  • FM broadcasting and online streaming provided easy access to the listeners.
  • ·We are able to listen to radio programs through Mobile App.
  • Still we are able to catch the signals of Shortwave Radio and get a QSL card which  gives more pleasure.
  • Participating in the contest organized by the Radio Station is another interest for the listeners.
  • Radio Prague still sends t-shirts to the winners in their monthly contest, Radio Romania International provides special prizes to the winners in their regular contests.
  • Radio France International, of course, our favorite Station, the sound kitchen encourages the club members a lot.
  • Interestingly introducing Digital Transmitters worldwide, now drastically improved the scope of attracting more new listeners.
  • Introducing DRM with new technologies like display of radio station name on the screen, scrolling text undoubtedly improved it’s value.
  • Only disadvantage for the common listener is the price of the DRM receiver which is a bit high in the market, but we wish that the price of the DRM receiver would come down with demand as it has happened in the case of mobile phones.

 

Radio has the ability to reach across borders and can become a valuable source of information.  From YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB, HYDERABAD we always promote the radio listening hobby giving wide awareness and publicity about the hobby.

Our club slogan is “Shortwave – travel through the sound waves”

To extend support for promotion of radio listening, our radio club hoisted a dedicated website  at https://ysrc.odoo.com with all sorts of information required  for a new listener and also the old DXer.  We have a DX page, Radio Quiz page, DRM page, etc.

We thank one and all at WORLD RADIO AND TV HANDBOOK for their support to OUR CLUB and the listeners across the globe.  Your dedicated service in  collection, compilation and bringing this beautiful and informative book is wholeheartedly appreciated by our club.         WRTH is nothing but an encyclopaedia  of  radio which comes every year.

We also thank Kira Probst, Gunter Lorenz, Olumide Sawage for providing us with a Complimentary Copy of WRTH-2024 edition.

Though our club name was placed in the WRTH 2008 & 2021 editions, we shall be grateful, if our club name is listed in the ensuing edition of the publication i.e., WRTH-2025.

We wish the World Radio Day 2024 a thought provoking, promising and a memorable day of celebration.

I wish all radio friends at WRTH, a happy listening and happy DXing!“

Hari Madugula from YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB, Hyderabad, India.

Sivraj Chinnamari, India

அன்பான வானொலி நண்பரே..

 
எனது இதயபூர்வமான உலக வானொலி தின நல்வாழ்த்துகள்.2024
 
MY DEAR LOVELY RADIO FRIENDS.
 
📻HAPPY WORLD RADIO DAY📻
13/02/2024
 
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