Akashvani strengthened national unity, shaped cultural consciousness: Yogi Adityanath

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday described All India Radio (Akashvani) as an important institution that has shaped India’s cultural consciousness, strengthened national unity and preserved linguistic diversity across generations.

He was speaking at the 89th foundation day celebrations of Akashvani’s Lucknow Centre. The Chief Minister recalls the broadcaster’s deep emotional and social connection with citizens, especially in pre-digital India.

“There was a time when radio was not just a device but a lifeline. The first voice that resonated in homes across the country was that of Akashvani. Its credibility made it a trusted companion for millions,” he said.

During the event held at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, the Chief Minister highlighted Akashvani’s historic contribution in documenting and influencing key phases of India’s journey.

Referring to milestones like the Quit India Movement, Partition, and the adoption of the Constitution, he said Akashvani was more than a broadcaster, he was a witness and narrator of India’s transformation.

Adityanath emphasized that Akashvani played a significant role in nurturing patriotism during the freedom struggle by airing songs like Vande Mataram and connecting people across regions. He also noted that the Lucknow station, inaugurated by Govind Ballabh Pant in 1938, holds a special place in India’s broadcasting history as one of the earliest centers established before Independence.

Focusing on cultural preservation, the Chief Minister said Akashvani was instrumental in promoting regional dialects like Bhojpuri, Awadhi, Garhwali and Kumaoni.

“It provided a platform where local languages, folk traditions and folk arts were not only preserved but also celebrated,” he noted, adding that the broadcaster helped instill a sense of pride in India’s diverse cultural identity.

Linking traditional and modern communication, Adityanath highlighted how initiatives like Mann Ki Baat have revived the spirit of meaningful dialogue through radio. He said such programs re-established the importance of credible, grassroots communication in an era dominated by fast but often unreliable digital content.

The Chief Minister emphasized that Akashvani needs to evolve with changing times and engage younger audiences.

“The platform needs to adapt to new technologies and formats, while maintaining its credibility and core values,” he said, expressing confidence that it would continue to be relevant in the digital age.

Prasar Bharati CEO Gaurav Dwivedi earlier highlighted the organisation’s commitment to public broadcasting and technological advancement. The show also featured a documentary on Akashvani Lucknow’s journey and a felicitation ceremony that honored leading artists and veteran broadcasters.

The Chief Minister honored former AIR newsreaders and staff like Yagyadev Pandit, Gulabchand, Susheel Robert Banerjee, Satish Kumar Grover, Vijay Kumar Banerjee, Rajjan Lal, Navneet Mishra, Harish Sanwal, Bholanath and Keval Kumar for their contribution to Akashvani.