Thiruvananthapuram: “Namaskaram. I am Mohanlal…” His voice began this way, setting off a wave of nostalgia to those fondly listening. Before the arrival of television and the internet, radio was the main source of entertainment for an entire generation--recalled Mohanlal, seated at the Akashavani station in Vazhuthacaud in Kerala, a place steeped in history.

The veteran actor visited the station on Friday to record a special programme as part of Akashavani’s 70th-anniversary celebrations.

Sharing his fond memories of All India Radio (Akashavani), Mohanlal spoke about its longstanding influence on his life. He praised the station for upholding its dignity through high-quality programming, especially noting the clarity of pronunciation and the uniqueness of its news broadcasts.

Mohanlal reminisced about his childhood favourites—programmes like Balalokam, Radio Ammavan, and Yuva Vani, which first introduced him to the magic of radio. As a schoolboy, he had lent his voice to children’s programmes and radio dramas at the Thiruvananthapuram station. He also mentioned being an active member of the Radio Club there during his youth.

As part of the Ishtagana (Favourite Songs) segment, Mohanlal shared a selection of his ten all-time favourite songs.

Friday also marked the retirement of V. Shivakumar, Programme Head of the Thiruvananthapuram station and a prominent figure in national sports broadcasting. Mohanlal was present at the farewell to convey his best wishes and gratitude for Shivakumar’s dedicated service.