On 13th February 2025, the Department of Media Studies at Quantum University, Roorkee, marked World Radio Day with a remarkable event that seamlessly blended history, performance, and innovation. Hosted in the university’s state-of-the-art Media Lab, the celebration paid homage to radio’s illustrious past while exploring its contemporary relevance in the digital landscape.
With an audience of enthusiastic students, faculty members, and media enthusiasts, the event unfolded as an enriching experience that combined academic insights with creative expression. It served as a reminder of radio’s enduring charm and its evolution as a tool of storytelling, information, and societal transformation.
“The History of Radio” – A Journey Through Sound and Time
The celebration began on an informative note with a compelling video presentation titled “The History of Radio.” This audiovisual segment took the audience on a fascinating voyage from the inception of radio technology to its transformation in the modern age.
The presentation spotlighted visionary inventors like Guglielmo Marconi and Nikola Tesla, whose groundbreaking contributions laid the foundation for radio communication. It revisited the days when radio was a lifeline during wars, bringing real-time updates to civilians, and when it played a key role in freedom struggles, particularly in India’s independence movement.
Transitioning into the digital era, the presentation explored the shift from AM/FM broadcasting to digital streaming, internet radio, and podcasts. The students gained a newfound appreciation for how this medium, though evolved, continues to hold its ground in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world.
Live Radio Drama: “Kafan” – A Performance That Stirred Emotions
One of the most anticipated and captivating segments of the event was the live radio drama performance of “Kafan,” a powerful adaptation of Munshi Premchand’s timeless short story.
Performed entirely by the students, this segment recreated the raw intensity of the story through expressive voice modulation, powerful dialogue delivery, and immersive sound effects. The performers skillfully utilized ambient noises and background music to replicate an authentic radio drama atmosphere, reminiscent of traditional broadcasting studios.
The emotional depth of Kafan, portraying poverty, helplessness, and social apathy, was brought to life through the students’ nuanced performances. The storytelling not only showcased their artistic flair but also highlighted the technical craft behind audio production—sound design, voice direction, and timing.
Blending Legacy with Innovation
What truly set this celebration apart was its unique approach to bridging the past and the present. The event wasn’t just a commemoration—it was a living, breathing experience of radio as a dynamic medium. Students engaged in insightful discussions, reflected on historical content, and experimented with real-world radio production techniques.
By offering a mix of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice, the event deepened the students’ understanding of journalism, broadcasting, and content creation. Industry trends were discussed, and the relevance of ethical storytelling in today’s media climate was emphasized.
Capturing Moments, Creating Memories
“Voices of the past, stories of the present—World Radio Day 2025 echoed across generations at Quantum University!”
From the glowing faces of student performers to the focused expressions during presentations, every moment of the event captured the essence of passionate learning and collaborative creativity.
A Resounding Success
The celebration of World Radio Day 2025 at Quantum University wasn’t just an event—it was an experience. It left the participants inspired, informed, and more connected to the legacy of radio. The Department of Media Studies succeeded in creating a platform where innovation met tradition, and students walked away with a deeper respect for the power of the spoken word.
“Radio is not just a technology; it’s a heartbeat of history, a whisper of truth, and a melody of voices. At Quantum, we tuned into all of it.”
