Radio Kaka: How this Kerala man became Manjeri's iconic radio repair specialist

Moideenkutty began learning radio repairing at a time when owning a radio signified VIP status. Photo: Manorama

Moideenkutty arrived in Manjeri from Karakkunnu at the age of 25 to pursue a career in radio repairing. Over the past four and a half decades, he has repaired thousands of radios and now, at the age of 72, he proudly owns around 100 radios. His deep connection with radios has earned him the nickname 'Radio Kaka'. Today is World Radio Day

Moideenkutty began learning radio repairing at a time when owning a radio signified VIP status. He apprenticed under A K Parameswaran Nair. There were around 15 radio service centres in Manjeri at the time. After completing his training, he worked as an employee in various radio service centres.

Moideenkutty said that he had to take up work owing to the financial hardships faced by his family. Similar to today's ubiquitous laptop service centres, radio service centres were widespread at the time, making it easy for him to find employment.

Moideenkutty's Sangam Electronics, located at PMT Square in Manjeri, has serviced almost every brand of radio over the years. Customers from all over the State reach out to him for his expertise, despite his formal education reaching only till the 7th class.
Moideenkutty has a passion for travel and prefers to visit customers' homes on Sundays to repair radios. He brings the set to his service centre only if spare parts are unavailable. He is also an avid listener to radio news broadcasts.

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