Thiruvananthapuram | M Ramachandran, the iconic voice of Kerala's airwaves and a beloved Akashvani news anchor, passed away on Saturday at the age of 91.
Ramachandran's journey to becoming a legend in news broadcasting began after he left a job with the Kerala State Electricity Board to join Akashvani, India's national radio broadcaster. He started anchoring from the Delhi Akashvani studio, where his distinctive, clear, and relatable style revolutionized news delivery in Malayalam.
His influence was particularly felt during the 1980s and 1990s when television was a luxury in most Kerala homes. For many, radio was the primary source of news, and Ramachandran became the trusted voice they tuned in to every day.
One of his most popular programs, *Kauthuka Varthakal* (News of Interest), further cemented his place in the hearts of listeners. His pioneering style of news reading, combined with his calm and authoritative voice, made him a symbol of reliability and integrity.
His catchphrase, "Varthakal Vayikunath Ramachandran" ("News going to be read by Ramachandran"), became a household refrain, resonating across the homes of Malayalis for decades.
Ramachandran's career spanned beyond radio. He also hosted several television programs, expanding his presence into the visual medium and captivating newer audiences. After retiring from Akashvani, he took his talents overseas, working as a radio anchor in the Gulf, where he continued to entertain and inform expatriate Malayalis.
As Kerala mourns the loss of this trailblazer, his contribution to radio journalism and his impact on generations of listeners will be remembered fondly.
