Thiruvananthapuram: M. Ramachandran, the news presenter who captured the hearts of All India Radio listeners with his compelling presentation style, has passed away at the age of 91. He died today (October 5) at noon while leading a life of retirement at his residence in Mudavanmughal, following age-related ailments.
His funeral will take place on Sunday at 11 AM at the Thaikkad Shanti Mandapam. Ramachandran was a unique talent who created an era with the iconic phrase, “Reading the news by Ramachandran.” Before the advent of visual media, he was able to etch the visual imagination of news in the minds of listeners through his distinctive news presentation style. There was a time when it was unimaginable for Malayalis to go a day without listening to Ramachandran reading the news in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
He had a knack for finding curiosity within serious news, and his weekly ‘Kauthuka Varthakal’ (Curiosity news) segments, crafted and presented with his unique style, garnered him millions of listeners and fans. During elections, All India Radio was the only source for announcing results, and Ramachandran ensured that the excitement, anxiety, and wonder surrounding election result announcements were vividly conveyed, transforming the landscape of news presentation itself.
Even after retiring from All India Radio, he continued to work in various news channels and served as a media studies educator. Hailing from Chavara in Kollam, Ramachandran began his professional life as a theater artist, excelling in portraying various soundscapes in plays, which eventually opened the door to All India Radio for him. He and Prathapan, his contemporary news presenter at All India Radio, were two distinct stars of the same era, each recognized for their unique styles. Ramachandran received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.
Governor Arif Mohammed Khan has expressed his condolences on the passing of M. Ramachandran. In his message, the Governor said: “Heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of Sri M. Ramachandran, popular radio newscaster of Akashvani. He endeared himself to listeners through a distinct style of news presentation. May his soul attain Mukti”.
