Some years back Vividh Bharti of All India Radio, had a programme wherein listeners could write on a postcard their wish to listen to a favourite Hindi song. On a particular day, an announcer would randomly pick a postcard, mention the listener’s name and address and play the song.
Later the programme was replaced with phone-in callers, and this still continues. Now the old format is being rejuvenated. Is it necessary?
The reasons are firstly, phone-in format exists and with the advent of emails, WA and SMS interested listeners could send their request. Secondly, although sale of postcards might surge, how many people would go to a post office, stand in line and buy them? Thirdly, due to shortage of delivery persons it would be difficult for the existing personnel to dispense them. Fourthly, trees could be saved as postcards are made from cardstock.
In view of the above, Vividh Bharti could double-think on re-starting its “song request on a postcard” programme.
