Akashvani Guwahati: History, Popular Shows, and Notable Personalities

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August, 2025

History of Akashvani Guwahati

Akashvani Guwahati, part of All India Radio (AIR), began as the Shillong-Guwahati Station, launched on July 1, 1948, soon after India’s independence. The station was established to serve Assam, with Shillong as the administrative capital and Guwahati as the cultural hub. The then Chief Minister of Assam, Gopinath Bordoloi, played a key role in its setup, allocating the Commissioner’s Bungalow at Uzanbazar Ghat in Guwahati and the Bidhan Sabha Bhawan in Shillong for its operations. Initially, it broadcast from two studios—one in Shillong and one in Guwahati—connected by a telephone line, using a 1 KW medium-wave transmitter. In 1953, the station’s headquarters shifted to Guwahati, and a 10 KW medium-wave transmitter was installed at Jalukbari, expanding its reach to Kamrup, Nagaon, and nearby districts. By 1957, the station moved to its permanent campus at Chandmari, and in 1958, a 10 KW shortwave transmitter further extended its coverage across Assam. Today, Akashvani Guwahati operates three channels: two AM channels (Guwahati A & B) and one FM channel (CBS), reaching nearly 98% of Assam’s population.

Popular Shows

Akashvani Guwahati has been a cornerstone of Assam’s cultural and social life, with programs that resonate across generations. Some enduring shows include:

Goya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme): Aimed at rural listeners, this show provides agricultural tips, local news, and community stories, connecting with Assam’s rural heartland since the station’s early days.
Aideur Buloni (Women’s Programme): Focused on women’s issues, this program features discussions on health, education, and empowerment, remaining a listener favorite.
Akonir Mel (Children’s Programme): Engaging young audiences with stories, songs, and educational content, this show has been a staple since 1948.
Weekly Radio Drama: Known for its captivating storytelling, this program showcases Assamese plays, including works by notable writers like Dr. Bhabendranath Saikia.
Nogore Sohore: Conceptualized by Dr. Bhabendranath Saikia, this program explores life in Assam’s towns and cities, with its first episode focusing on Guwahati.
Chitrageet: A popular music show featuring Assamese film songs, loved for its nostalgic appeal.
Bandana: A morning program that starts the day with devotional music and greetings, setting the tone for listeners.

Notable Personalities Associated

Akashvani Guwahati has been shaped by literary and cultural giants who contributed as writers, singers, and program creators:

Dr. Bhupen Hazarika: A legendary figure, he joined as a Programme Assistant in 1948, producing iconic musical plays and songs that defined Assamese culture.
Nabakanta Barua: A versatile genius, he composed songs, wrote children’s literature, translated Greek plays, and penned radio novels from 1958 until his passing.
Syed Abdul Malik: A noted writer and Jnanpith awardee, he served as a Programme Assistant, enriching the station’s literary offerings.
Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya: Another Jnanpith awardee, he contributed to the station’s Assamese programs after working at AIR Calcutta.
Nirmalprabha Bordoloi: Known for her evergreen lyrics and directing programs like Aideur Buloni, she left a lasting impact.
Lakshyahira Das: A singer and songwriter, she was associated with the station since its inception, contributing to its musical legacy.
Dr. Bhabendranath Saikia: A renowned filmmaker and writer, he produced popular radio plays like Jonakir Biya and Santo Sisto Hristo Pusto Mohadusto, and created Nogore Sohore.
Keshab Mahanta: A poet whose Bihu songs for Akashvani remain iconic.
Singers: Artists like Hemen Hazarika, Tarikuddin Ahmed, Gyanada Kakati, Queen Hazarika (Sudakshina Sarma), Khagen Mahanta, and Dipali Borthakur debuted many of their timeless songs on Akashvani Guwahati.

Why Akashvani Guwahati Matters

For over 77 years, Akashvani Guwahati has been more than a radio station—it’s an emotion for Assam’s people. From its role in preserving Assamese culture to its reach across urban and rural areas, it remains a vital medium for news, education, and entertainment. Tune in on 1035 AM, 96 FM, or online at allindiaradio.gov.in to experience its legacy.

Also See: National Waterways of India