The unbroken echo of Shala Radios

In the age of rapidly evolving technology, where OTT platforms and smart TVs dominate the entertainment landscape, there exists a nostalgic melody in the Kashmir Valley that refuses to fade away. Ghulam Nabi Shala, affectionately known as the “sound man” of the valley, at the ripe age of 80, continues to breathe life into radios and loudspeakers.
In an exclusive chat with Rising Kashmir, Shala shared his remarkable journey spanning six and a half decades. Commencing his craft at the tender age of 15, Shala, with unwavering dedication, has been fixing loudspeakers and radios ever since. His shop, Shala Radio Habakadal, once a renowned haven for radio repairs, drew enthusiasts not just from Kashmir but also from other states seeking his expertise.
Recalling luminaries such as Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, Mohammad Sadiq, Karan Singh, Mufti Mohammad Syed, and other political giants of Kashmir, Shala reminisced about their visits to his shop seeking assistance with their audio systems.
“Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad would frequently visit my shop, not just for repairs but to discuss roads and upcoming conventions,” Shala nostalgically shared, highlighting the integral role his shop played in connecting with influential figures.
Addressing the decline in radio listenership, Shala remarked, “Radio has its sweetness; nothing can replace it.” Despite the modern influx of the internet, OTT platforms, and smart TVs, he highlighted that there are still individuals who appreciate the unique charm of radio broadcasting.
“Through radio, the latest news, speeches, interviews, etc., can be effectively transmitted. We can listen to the radio even with our eyes closed,” Shala continued, stressing the enduring versatility of this classic medium. “Whether traveling, at work, or in public spaces, radios provide a constant source of information and entertainment.”
Contrary to the prevailing trends, Shala’s shop remains a gathering point for radio enthusiasts, young and old, seeking restoration for their beloved devices. He shared an intriguing anecdote of recent customers purchasing vintage radios, paying a premium for devices valued between 200-400, showcasing the enduring allure of these timeless gadgets.
Industry experts acknowledge that the surge in internet usage has led to a decline in radio listenership, paralleling the diminishing appeal of book reading and traditional television watching. Shala attributes this shift to the convenience of modern technology, offering a vast array of entertainment with a simple click on smartphones.
Yet, in the heart of Kashmir, Shala contends that radio holds its ground, especially in rural areas where people continue to tune in while working in fields, workshops, or at home. Despite the allure of on-demand programming and commercial-free music, he insists that radio maintains its status as a simple yet powerful medium of journalism.
“Despite tremendous technological developments, radio still maintains its importance, particularly in places like Kashmir,” Shala asserted, highlighting the resilience of this timeless form of communication in the face of technological evolution.
As Ghulam Nabi Shala, the sound man of Kashmir Valley, meticulously tends to his craft, the echoes of radio persist, evidence of the enduring charm of a medium that transcends generations. In a world captivated by digital wonders, Shala’s commitment to preserving this auditory legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit that keeps the timeless tunes alive in the hearts of Kashmiris.