In the quaint town of Chembukkavu near Thrissur, K.C. Rajendran’s fascination with radios began at the age of eight. His early love for music ignited a desire to own a radio, and after persistent requests, his father granted his wish by buying a second-hand Philips radio for ₹15. This initial purchase marked the beginning of a lifelong passion, as Rajendran soon embarked on a journey to collect more radios, especially when the sound quality of his first radio fell short of his expectations.

Throughout the years, Rajendran has invested a considerable portion of his earnings into expanding his collection. Now, at the age of 53, he proudly showcases a personal museum of 310 radios within his home. His collection spans from large, vintage models to sleek, modern designs. “Most of my collection consists of second-hand radios,” Rajendran shares. “I acquired them from electronics shops and even scrap centers where they were discarded due to minor issues.”

Despite not having formal training in electronics, Rajendran, who works as a building contractor, has managed to repair many of these radios himself. His collection includes radios from over 40 different manufacturers, with 57 models from Philips alone. Other brands such as Murphy, Sanyo, Hitachi, Sony, Sharp, and Panasonic are also part of his extensive collection. The radios vary significantly in size, ranging from tiny matchbox-sized models to hefty ones weighing up to 20 kilograms.

Radios play a vital role in Rajendran’s daily routine. He starts and ends each day with their comforting sounds, reflecting the deep bond he has formed with his collection over the years.

The Art of Radio Restoration

Rajendran’s journey into radio restoration is a testament to his dedication and passion. Without any formal education in electronics, he has taught himself the intricacies of radio repair. This self-taught expertise has allowed him to breathe new life into many of the radios in his collection, transforming them from discarded items into cherished pieces of history.

His home, filled with the hum of radios, serves as a sanctuary for these devices, each with its own story and history. Rajendran’s ability to restore and maintain these radios not only preserves their functionality but also keeps the nostalgia of past eras alive.

Preserving History Through Radios

For Rajendran, collecting radios is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to preserve history. Each radio in his collection represents a different time period and technological advancement. By maintaining these radios, he ensures that future generations can appreciate the evolution of communication technology.

His collection is a testament to the rich history of radio manufacturing, showcasing the diversity and innovation of different brands and models. Rajendran’s dedication to preserving these radios highlights the importance of remembering and valuing the technological advancements of the past.

Inspiring Future Collectors

Rajendran’s passion for radios serves as an inspiration to others who may be interested in collecting. His story demonstrates that with dedication and a love for the subject, anyone can build a meaningful collection. By sharing his journey, Rajendran hopes to encourage others to explore the world of radio collecting and appreciate the beauty and history behind these devices.

As he continues to expand his collection, Rajendran remains committed to preserving the legacy of radios. His home, filled with the sounds of these timeless devices, stands as a tribute to the enduring appeal of radio technology and the joy it brings to those who appreciate its history.