Kolkata, August 26, 2026: Akashvani Kolkata has entered its 100th year of broadcasting, marking a historic milestone in the evolution of radio and public broadcasting in Bengal.
The station began its first official Bengali broadcast on August 26, 1927, and over the decades has connected generations of listeners through news, music, literature, drama, education and public-service programming.
The centenary milestone celebrates not only the longevity of one of India’s prominent broadcasting institutions but also its enduring contribution to Bengal’s cultural and social landscape.
Akashvani Kolkata Completes a Historic Broadcasting Journey
Akashvani Kolkata’s broadcasting journey began on August 26, 1927, with its first official Bengali broadcast.
Since then, the station has remained an important medium for reaching audiences across Bengal with diverse programming.
Radio played a particularly significant role during the early decades of mass communication, bringing information, entertainment and educational content directly into people’s homes.
Over generations, Akashvani Kolkata became closely associated with Bengali-language broadcasting and the region’s rich cultural traditions.
News, Music and Literature Connected Generations
For nearly a century, Akashvani Kolkata has provided programmes covering a wide range of subjects.
Its programming has included:
- News and current affairs
- Bengali music
- Literature
- Drama
- Educational programmes
- Cultural programmes
- Public-service broadcasts
Through these programmes, the station has provided a platform for artists, writers, musicians, performers and voices from different sections of society.
Its contribution has extended beyond entertainment, with broadcasting also serving an important role in public awareness and information dissemination.
Akashvani Kolkata’s Role During Bangladesh Liberation War
One of the significant chapters in Akashvani Kolkata’s history came during the Bangladesh Liberation War.
The station’s contribution during the period further strengthened its place in the history of broadcasting in the region.
Radio became an important medium for communication during the turbulent period, and Akashvani Kolkata’s broadcasts formed part of the wider information environment surrounding the events of 1971.
Its association with this historic period remains an important part of the station’s legacy.
From Traditional Radio to Modern Broadcasting
While Akashvani Kolkata has a long association with traditional radio broadcasting, the station has continued to adapt to changes in technology and audience behaviour.
Today, under Prasar Bharati, Akashvani Kolkata reaches audiences through modern broadcasting platforms while continuing to preserve its established programming traditions.
The evolution reflects the changing nature of public broadcasting, where traditional radio is increasingly complemented by digital platforms and new methods of audience engagement.
Preserving Bengal’s Cultural Heritage
Akashvani Kolkata’s century-long journey has also been closely linked with the preservation and promotion of Bengali culture.
Music, literature, drama and other forms of artistic expression have remained important elements of its programming.
By providing space for cultural content across generations, the station has helped maintain a connection between traditional forms of expression and changing audiences.
Its archive and broadcasting legacy represent an important part of India’s wider public broadcasting history.
A Century of Public Service
Public-service broadcasting has been central to Akashvani’s role.
Beyond entertainment, radio has historically helped disseminate information relating to education, public awareness and matters of public interest.
Akashvani Kolkata’s continued presence under Prasar Bharati reflects the enduring relevance of public broadcasting even as audiences increasingly consume content through digital media.
Akashvani Kolkata at 100: Legacy Meets the Future
The beginning of the station’s 100th year represents a moment to look back at its historic contribution while also considering the future of broadcasting.
The media landscape has changed dramatically since 1927. Audiences now have access to television, websites, social media, podcasts and streaming platforms.
Yet radio continues to offer a distinctive form of communication through its accessibility and ability to connect with audiences across geographical and technological boundaries.
Akashvani Kolkata’s transition into its centenary year therefore represents both a celebration of its past and a continuation of its public-service mission.
Conclusion
Akashvani Kolkata has entered its 100th year of broadcasting on August 26, 2026, marking a historic milestone for broadcasting in Bengal.
From its first official Bengali broadcast in 1927 to its present-day presence under Prasar Bharati, the station has connected generations through news, music, literature, drama, education and public-service programming.
Its contribution during the Bangladesh Liberation War and its long association with Bengali cultural life have added significant chapters to its history.
As Akashvani Kolkata begins its centenary year, its journey stands as a testament to the enduring role of broadcasting in informing, educating and connecting communities.
