The voice of capital city

On Vishu, many had a blissful start to the day, getting their first glimpse of lord Krishna decorated amidst Kanikkona flowers and fruits. However, the capital city residents had more in store to rejoice as they started their morning listening to a heartwarming 'Kani Geetham' on Vishu day. Ananthapuri FM, a local commercial radio station shut down by the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting nearly two years ago, was revived on Vishu after facing immense pressure.

The return of Ananthapuri FM Radio, a lively presence not only in the capital but also in a large area of ​​Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts, was the icing on the cake for this Vishu season.

Prasar Bharati ended the broadcasting of the All India Radio Ananthapuri FM channel on July 20, 2023, citing the dull business figures and the unprofitable operations. Even as private FM radios entered the broadcasting market and increased their business through new marketing strategies, many remained adherent to the old charm of the Ananthapuri FM.

Ananthapuri FM was a treasure trove of evergreen songs, important announcements concerning the capital city and more.

The first step in eliminating Ananthapuri FM was to change its name and popular programs. Every time Prasar Bharati took steps that were detrimental to Ananthapuri FM, Kerala Kaumudi brought the news to the limelight. Kerala Kaumudi was the first to report about Ananthapuri FM ceasing operations on July 21, 2023.

Ananthapuri FM's name and programs were changed on January 1, 2022. At that time, the name was replaced by Vividh Bharathi Akashvani Malayalam. Hindi programmes were also added to the prime time. Channel head Mallika Kurup was replaced. FM channel control went to Mumbai Vividh Bharati. With that, listeners expected the imminent demise of Ananthapuri FM, but the closure in July 2023 came without any particular warning.

Following Kerala Kaumudi’s report, Rajya Sabha member John Brittas demanded that the name change of the FM station operating under All India Radio, reduction of Malayalam broadcasting time and inclusion of Hindi programs be immediately withdrawn.

Union Minister V. Muraleedharan met Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L. Murugan and conveyed the sentiments of the listeners. Subsequently, the name was changed to Ananthapuri Vividh Bharathi Malayalam.

Thanks to everyone who tried to bring back the capital's own All India Radio. Big credits also to Prasar Bharati for its generosity in rectifying the wrong, albeit late. Beyond the visuals, the sound has a unique emotional dimension. Ananthapuri FM is the voice of the capital city and the heartbeat for many.