Radio

It didn't take too long for me to give up on TV - for watching TV is directly proportionate to the loss of multitasking abilities. The ad-time which is supposedly meant to give you a break from 'viewing,' turns into a magnetic fixation to the couch - getting us to watch the 'cinema-style' ads, surfing other channels or even worse, tune into the 'pre-channel' mode - which is the absolute weapon; available at the touch of a finger, aimed at promoting 

'couch-potatoism!' Breaks in each of these previously set channels are apparently timed in such a way that when one channel decides to take a break, the other is still on - quite complementary!

This, by the way, is no way a rant against TV, however is a tribute to the humble radio. Over the years, the radio has only changed for the better, with more FM stations being aired - not to mention the radio mobile app and internet radio. Luckily the periphery hasn't changed much unlike the TV. By and large, the radio has been the single most ambassador of music. While the visuals of the songs do the trick on TV, the radio is any day a better equivalent when it comes to promoting music - it reinstates focus on the beats and lyrics, something quintessential to music. With the PM's 'Mann Ki Baat' gaining popularity, it feels as if we are getting back to those lessons taught in school - of how the radio has a mass reach, especially in the deeper pockets of India. 

Our radio turns out to be even simpler with programmes on Vividh Bharathi remaining unfettered. Thanks to a few FM stations too, playing their part beautifully well, by consistently serving a daily dose of entertainment. 

Serendipity 

To me, radio is an absolute source of serendipity. Serendipity is a beautiful feeling and hence must be enjoyed sans compromise. Which is why I have a transistor through which I can even get the medium and short wave. Even as I write this piece, I am tuned in to the radio - listening to Mandolin U. Shrinivas on medium wave! Most of the Carnatic ragas are familiar to me, thanks to the programmes on MW and FM alike, all you need to do is the right tuning! The announcement done is consistent - with details like the raga, tala and composer told before every song. 

With all the technology at our disposal, we could have our own playlist to our heart's content. But that doesn't amount to serendipity! When the song you longed for is played on the radio, it is an inexplicably blissful moment. When the RJ announces anyone of my favourite songs, I often wonder what runs through their mind when the song is being played - are they enjoying it along with us, or are they busy lining up the next set of songs or are they just not at their seats for some reason? Whatever it is, they, I feel, are magnanimous - only because they spread so much cheer and joy in the minds of their listeners at different points in time of the day. I experience child-like delight when I phone in to these stations, requesting for songs - I thank them profusely and almost forget the reason for the phone call! And that's exactly what serendipity can do to you!