A Nostalgic Journey Through Sound

For many millennials, the evolution of music playback technology mirrors the passage of time itself. From the crackling warmth of LPs and cassettes to the sleekness of CDs and the advent of streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, the journey has been profound. Yet, among these transitions, radios have held a special place in the hearts of many.
Radios were more than just devices; they were gateways to discovering new music, voices, and stories. Before curated playlists and algorithm-driven recommendations, there were radio jockeys who introduced listeners to genres and artists, shaping musical tastes and personalities. In a time when televisions were a luxury, radios were ubiquitous, found in nearly every Indian household. A simple flick of the switch could transport listeners to musical realms, each dial turn an adventure through static to find the perfect frequency.

The Last Custodian of Kolkata’s Radio Heritage

Amidst this nostalgia stands 66-year-old Amit Ranjan Karmakar, affectionately known as the ‘Radioman of Kolkata’. His shop, nestled on 40 Banamali Sarkar Street in Kumartuli, is a sanctuary for vintage radio enthusiasts. With over 200 antique radios lining the shelves, the shop is a testament to the golden age of radio.
Brands like Bush, Telefunken, Philips, and Murphy, once household names, are prominently displayed. Some of these radios date back to the 1940s, with the oldest being a 1944 Philips Maestro, brought in by a customer and never reclaimed. Karmakar’s expertise in restoring these relics has made him a revered figure among locals and collectors alike.

Mahalaya: A Time of Revival

For Karmakar, Mahalaya holds a special significance. The annual broadcast of Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s ‘Mahishasuramardini’ on All India Radio marks the beginning of Durga Puja celebrations. In the days leading up to Mahalaya, his shop becomes a hive of activity as families bring in their vintage radios for repairs, eager to reconnect with tradition.
Despite the decline in radio’s popularity, Mahalaya ensures a surge in business. Karmakar recalls instances where clients, after having their radios repaired, would call up their grandparents to listen to the restored sets over the phone, a testament to the emotional value these devices hold.

A Living Museum of Sound

Karmakar’s shop is more than just a repair center; it’s a living museum. Each radio tells a story, from its design to its previous owners. Some radios have even found their way into film sets, featured in songs from classic Bengali films like ‘Deya Neya’ (1963) and ‘Shap Mochan’ (1995).
Though the advent of color televisions and smartphones has led to a decline in demand for his services, Karmakar remains steadfast in his mission to preserve Kolkata’s radio heritage.

A Legacy in Peril

As digital platforms dominate the audio landscape, traditional radios have been relegated to the sidelines. Karmakar acknowledges the inevitability of change but remains hopeful. “Radios may not be in fashion anymore, but they will always have a place in our hearts,” he says.
In an age of rapid modernization, individuals like Amit Ranjan Karmakar serve as custodians of cultural heritage, ensuring that the melodies of the past continue to resonate in the present. His shop stands as a beacon of nostalgia, reminding us of a time when radios were the heartbeat of our homes.