“ Indian Media Before

Media StudiesProject

S.Y.B.M.M

Index

SrNo.

Topic Pg No.

1Acknowledgement 3

2 Introduction 4

3 Origin Of Press India 6

4 Printing Press in India 7

5 Articles published in the newspapers ofpre-independence period

16

6Advertising During Pre-Independence

Period

22

7 Radio Before Independence 24

8 Bibliography 28

Acknowledgement

We the group members hereby thank Ms. Supriya Nisal Madam for giving us this project topic which not only gave us the awareness about early media in India but also connected with the present Media in India. We also thank her for giving us the proper guidance to accomplish this project successfully.

INTRODUCTION

The Indian national press was undisputedly the backbone of the freedom struggle for independence from colonial rule. Its historical importance and prestige it enjoyed in the society are linked to the awareness and creation of public opinion. The modern press marked its beginning only after the advent of European Civilization in India. Portuguese were the first Europeans who introduced printing press in India. The Christian missionaries of Bengal deserve the credit in introducing printing press primarily for publishing missionary leaflets etc. Today, over the last 250 years, the press has come to occupy an undisputed position as the fourth and the strongest pillar of modern India. Though the press in India started as an European institution the native Indians did not take long to realize its potential in socio-political communication. The Print Media, and for that matter Media as a whole owes its origin, and growth not to the government but to the individuals who had in them the courage to lead the nation. The trials and tribulation they had to encounter at the hands of foreign powers could not prevent the press from growing and becoming an instrument for fight against subjugation and to bring wide range of social and economic reforms which speak galore of their resolute determination and inherent strength. The later years of 19 century unfolded a glorious chapter of Indian newspapers which reveals the newspapers consistently reporting on challenges ahead of the nation. Instead of reporting societal events of the Britishers and feudal Indian society, the newspapers focused on news and write-ups on diverse social and political concerns and problems and the country saw the birth of a different kind of journalism, a dedicated journalism which stood for social reforms and public welfare, and creating opinion on issues like education, child marriage, widow marriage and sati. The press gradually became the most powerful weapon for freedom movement under the leadership of towering personalities like

Tilak, Gokhale, Gandhiji and others who stood for progressive journalism and liberal notions and believed in the strength of the press to mould public opinion, to shape the destiny of the nation and safeguard the rights and civil liberties of its citizens. The strong belief of our freedom fighters that ‘pen is mightier than sword’ and the power of their pen can challenge the political establishment directed the Indian journalism with a sense of purpose that never weakened and holds ground till date. As a result, Press had always enjoyed popular support with respect and despite various lamentable aberrations in the functioning of media, even now media in India has strong popular support and the liberty which it enjoys today is founded on such popular support of the civil society. National political struggle and advocacy of social reforms and emancipation in the years before independence contributed to the creation of the core strength of the press in free India. This included independent functioning, resistance to state oppression and censorship, firm commitment to free speech and expression and its role as the leader and path finder of the society and protector of fundamental rights. Indian democracy has grown from strength to strength and made wide range of reforms for surging India in the sixty years of independence encountering struggles, war and insurgencies. The press has not only mirrored the march of this journey of democracy but gave valuable insights and suggestions at every step. The media scenario of India in the last 62 years has undergone sea change. The change can be broadly divided into two categories, i.e. the positive achievements of the media and negative trends in the media. But before delving into both of these aspects, it will be appropriate to refer to the major factor which has shaped the growth of this powerful medium of communication. Globalization, the new economic order of the world, has opened the floodgates to a cut– throat competition virtually in every sphere of our activities. The media and communication industries have immensely contributed in facilitating overall globalization. The impact of globalization is not merely an economic phenomenon, dictated by the market dominated corporate capitalism but also very powerful cultural content, shaped by the inseparable intertwining of advertising, television and internet. I would like to discuss the two perspectives as mentioned earlier in which the analysis of the Changing Face of Indian Media may be considered. First, your

kind attention towards the positive developments which have brought complete makeover of the Indian media may be drawn. To begin with, an insight into media’s growth scenario is necessary.

ORIGIN OF PRESS IN INDIA

Since the Indians enjoyed no fundamental rights in the British India, there was no question of guarantee of freedom of expression. When the Bengal Gazette popularly known as Hicky’s Gazette started in the 18th century as a first newspaper published in the country the colonial rule conferred no privileges or special liabilities apart from those in the general statute. Soon, however, as is evident from the history of Indian journalism, a plethora of laws relating to media were enacted primarily to suit the interest of the foreign rulers. Coming to post independence, even though the constitution did not make any special mention of the word ‘press’, the intense debates amongst the fathers of our constitution ensured that the press would create a special place for itself even without a specific mention. The need for freedom of speech and expression was well accepted by civil society of India and such freedom was also declared by Supreme Court way back in 1950 when the Constitution of India was just operative and the Supreme Court of India started functioning while deciding the question of pre censorship of newspaper. However, since then long time has elapsed and with passage of time, there has been paradigm shift in the functioning of media. As a result, “accountability” is a word heard more often than ‘freedom’ in he context of today’s media functioning thereby justifying a serious look to the changing face of Media.

Printing Press in India

First printing press set up in Goa in 1556, September 15th ‘Doutrina Christ’ was printed. Second printing press set up in Coramandal Coast, ‘Flos sancprum’ newsletter printed and it’s the first Tamil Nadu printing press.Third printing press in Bombay, ‘Bhimji Parekh’ was printed. Fourth printing press in Kerala, ‘Tamil Portuguese Dictionary’ was printed.Fifth printing press in Thanjore district and it’s the second press in Tamil Nadu.And next 15years many printing press were set up in India.In 18th century Grammar books were published in southern languages. In 1714 first copy of New testimony in Tamil was published In 1779 Tamil-English Dictionary was published.  

Newspapers in India - 18th Century

In 1780, January 29th first newspaper ‘Bengal Gazette’ by James Augustus Hickey and Hickey is known as the Father of Journalism. In 1780, November second newspaper ‘India Gazette’ by Bernard Messnik and Peter reed.In 1784 third newspaper ‘Calcutta Gazette’ alias ‘Oriental Advertiser’In 1785 fourth newspaper ‘Bengal Journal’ by Thomas Jones – published government advertisement at free of cost (above papers were given postal concession for wide circulation).-         In 1785 ‘Madras Courier’ by Richard Johnston-         In 1789 ‘Bombay Herald’-         In 1790 ‘Bombay Courier’

-         In 1791 ‘Bombay Gazette’-         In 1798 ‘Madras Gazette’ by Robert Williams.-         In 1795 ‘Indian Herald’ by Humphreys. Bengal GazetteIt also known as ‘Calcutta General Advertiser’, but it stays alive for two years only. Advertising was prominent; the thickness of the paper is similar to hard board, hence the printing wasn’t so clear. It has only two pages. Most of the news were taken from European newspapers, therefore isn’t attracted by Indian readers. Government scandals were highlighted and it’s totally views against the government, hence to control the Bengal gazette, government of India started ‘India Gazette’. India GazetteIt was supported by the Calcutta government. Fancy journalism started in second newspaper itself. Aim of the newspaper is to develop their business. Initially there was fought between Bengal gazette and India gazette, typefaces were supplied to both the newspapers but later it was stopped for Bengalgazette. The size of the newspaper is 16x10 inches; it introduced the column news. Calcutta Gazette alias Oriental AdvertiserIt’s a tabloid, it’s the first newspaper introduced tri language (English, Persia and Bengali) printing in single paper. Government supported the paper. Newspapers in MadrasIn 1785, ‘Madras Courier’ the first newspaper came to Madras, it’s a four pages newspaper two pages for news, third page for reader’s forum and last page for advertisements, government decided to give advertisements.To control the press, suddenly government passed ‘Censorship Act’ in 1795 in Madras (for particular newspapers). After 1799 the ‘Censorship Act’ was implemented to all newspapers in India. New laws to press, before publishing the news proof sheets of the content should submit to the government. Hence ‘Bengal Gazette’ newspaper banned.Newspapers in BombayIn 1789 ‘Bombay Herald’, first newspaper in Bombay and it’s a weekly. In 1790 ‘Bombay Courier’, second newspaper

in Bombay and founded Lukensh Burner by employees of east India Company. Bombay courier later renamed as ‘Bombay Times’ and in 1791, first newspaper published Indian language advertisements in Gujarati.Form Bombay Times two newspapers were originated, India Times and Bombay Gazette. In 1791 Bombay Gazette newspaper gave import to Letters to the Editor. Newspapers in India - 19th Century (eventful period of newspapers growth)Christian missionaries started newspapers in India and also development of Vernacular newspapers started (Indian Language newspapers).Lord Wilson wants to control the growth of Indian newspapers - news was against the government. Band for Sunday newspapers, news should publish only after references, declaration (imprint, about the newspaper details and these details filled in Magi state court) should submit to the government, no military and political news, if press violates the rules then immediate penalty/ punishments. Government introduced concession deposit for newspapers.Lord Milton gave liberty to newspapers; again ‘Bengal Gazette’ newspaper came into play in 1816, under the ownership of Gangadhar Bhattacharya first Indian to own the newspapers - remembered as a pioneer of Indian own newspaper.Same year, James Mickenzie and John Bull started first Sunday newspaper ‘Oriental star’ and government banned it. Later they got permission from court and started the paper but court strictly ordered the paper’s employee not to work Sundays. Slowly the liberty to press came into play.In 1818, Sharapov missionaries started first newspaper ‘Dig Darshan’ monthly, it space to historical data and political news. Dr. cray was the editor, after gone through the laws of press the monthly became weekly then changed the ‘Dig Darshan’ in Bengali (Vernacular language), it survived for four months. After four month it renamed as ‘Samachar Darpan’. 1819 J.C. Marshman took over as editor; paper sold for one rupee and it becomes bilingual (Bengali-Hindi) in 1829.In 1818, second newspaper ‘Friend of India’. The Sharapov missionaries’ newspapers started to critic the Hindu religion values. Raja Ram Mohan Rai

He was a social and religious reformer. Founder of Brahmo Samaj (an Indian socio-religious reform movement), he fought for women freedom and also abolished practice of sati. He is the father of Indian language journalism, because his contribution to journalism was in creditable.In 1829 he started his first newspaper ‘Brahminical Magazine’ in Bengali.-         Renamed as ‘Brahminical Sevedhu’ in Hindi-Bengali.-         Second ‘Samvad Kaumudi’ in Bengali.-         ‘Mirat-ul-Akhbar’ first newspaper in Persian language.Ram’s newspaper propagated - freedom of press, Indians in high ranks of service, and separation of the executive and judiciary, political philosophy, liberalism, individualism and freedom for women.James Silk Buckingham pioneered the letters to the editor column and write news with human interesting stories. He believes journalism dispels ignorance and also fought for the freedom of press, hence is called as ‘champion of freedom of press’.In 1818 ‘Calcutta Journal’- eight pages paper and twice a weekly.After 1827 Indian press divided into two parts – Indian press (support by Indian freedom fighters) Anglo-Indian press (support by British).Queen Victoria gave liberty to press. In 1858, separate rooms for editors, reporters were given for first time given. She invited the local people to take part in the administration.In mid of 19th century ‘The Hindu’, ‘Madras Mail’, In Bombay ‘Times of India’, In Calcutta ‘Telegraph’ and in Allahabad ‘Pioneer’ were started.In 1844, telegraph lines were introduced, information pass through the telegraphic lines to the press office.In 1861 ‘Times of India’ was born from already three existing newspapers Bombay Times, Bombay Standard and Telegraph Reuters was the first news agency all over the world - Times of India and Bengali newspaper subscribe news from them.In 1875 Robert Knight takes off the ‘Friend of India’ newspaper and also started ‘Statesman’. Later he combined the both the papers.In 1876 Lord Lytton Viceroy of India, he fought – press and government weren’t in good relationship, hence he wants to make them close.Robert Knight and Lord Lytton started the special press bureau (now its press information bureau).In 1878, Vernacular Act was brought by British, to control the growth press in India. The Act say, if press violates the rules the sentence would be, for the first time - apology, second time – postal concession and license will be cancelled and third – personal properties will affected.

 HinduIn 1878 ‘Hindu’ monthly started by six people - G. Subramania Aiyer, M. Veeraraghavachariar, T.T. Rangachariar, P.V. Rangachariar, D. Kesava Rao Pant and N. Subba Rao Pantulu. In 1883 Hindu published as Tri-weekly (Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening). In 1885 the Indian National Congress was born (A.O. Hume, founder of INC), the Hindu supported the government activities and wide coverage (INC first session increase the national news significance). In 1889 the Hindu published as daily. {Achievements, in 1940 - first to introduce colour, 1963 – aircraft for distribution, 1980- First to use computer aided photo composing, 1995 – first paper to go online and 1999 – becomes national newspaper}. In 1889 Official secret act imposed only on military news, later in 1903 it extended to other news. Last quarter of 19th century, the newspapers - covers public speech, discussions in the council, debates and price of paper were less. Stream engine printing came into play. Wire services were introduced.

Newspapers in India - 20th Century News AgenciesPaul Reuter, German founded ‘Reuter’ news agency. In London, news agency ‘Central press news agency’ distributed news to local newspapers. So Paul changed his views to give news to international agencies. ‘Bombay Times’, ‘Bengali’ newspapers in India for first time used Reuter agency. Due to competition USA, started ‘Associated Press’ news agency. AP started its limb in India, ‘Associated Press of India’ in 1910. But that doesn’t concentrated on Indian base news hence public didn’t welcome it. In 1910’s Congress split into two (due to changes in the capital of the nation) -liberals and nationalist. Liberals supported the change but Nationalist opposed it. The Newspapers in India was also split into two, new rule of laws introduced to suppress the growth of press. In 1915, ‘Free press of India’ it was the first news agency founded by Indians. It’s fully concentrated on Indian news, hence newspaper subscribe

news from them. British government implemented strict laws to control the newspaper growth. Due to the law, ‘Free press of India’ changed as newspaper in an overnight. But it wasn’t welcome by other newspapers in India. In 1930, other newspapers joined hands together and started ‘United press of India’. After independence FPI and UPI gone down, again six newspapers joined together and started ‘Press Trust of India’. Due to competition PTI, working journalist started ‘United News of India’ in 1961. Later many news agencies came into play; today we have more than 33news agencies in India. 

Bal Gangadhar Tilak And Kesari

The author of 'Nibandhamala', Vishnushastri Chiplunkar, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Gopal Ganesh Agarkar along with Mahadeo Ballal Namjoshi, Vaman S. Apte and Ganesh K. Garde, started the newspaper - 'The Mahratta' on Sunday, January 2, 1881 in English and the 'Kesari' on January 4, 1881 in Marathi with specific objectives in mind.

These Objectives have been stated in the first issue of the 'Kesari'.

" --------- opening a press and starting a newspaper became a business. It is generally observed that these two valuable instruments

have fallen in the hands of those who have not received adequate education. "

" ---------- a newspaper is useful in two ways. Firstly, if the newspapers carry out their duty impartially and dauntlessly, government officials are filled with awe. The purpose that is served, in the night, by lighting the street lamps or by the continuous patrolling of the police, is the purpose that is served by the incessant penmanship of journalists."

Pursuant to these objectives the 'Kesari' has been discharging its duty as a patrolman for the last 130 years.

For the initial six years, Lokmanya Tilak was the editor of the 'Mahratta' while Gopal Ganesh Agarkar was the editor of the 'Kesari'. Lokmanya Tilak took charge as the editor of the 'Kesari' on 25th October 1887. The articles of both Tilak and Agarkar got published in both the newspapers. Ideological differences between the two can also be seen in them. However, since 14th September 1891, Tilak became the legal owner of both the newspapers and 'Kesari' acquired its independent identity. 'Kesari' became one with the personality of Lokmanya Tilak. To quote Sahitya Samrat N. C. Kelkar, "It is impossible to consider the 'Kesari' exclusive of Lokmanya Tilak and Tilak apart from the 'Kesari". Lokmanya Tilak made use of 'Kesari' for bringing about political consciousness among the masses for the purpose of the freedom struggle, for giving a new direction to their thinking and for boosting the different agitations and programmes initiated by him. The four-point programme of 'Swaraj, Swadeshi, Boycott and National Education' that Tilak offered to the Congress and to the whole nation, was strongly upheld by 'Kesari'. As a result of its fearless and impartial writings Kesari had to face many court cases. Kesari suffered the rage of the British Rulers in the pre-independence days and also of the power intoxicated rulers after independence. Many times Kesari had to furnish sureties and the editors had to suffer imprisonment. Kesari inherited the spirit of sacrifice for the interest of the nation. During the Lokmanya's life time 'Kesari' had been a weekly that was published every Tuesday. Late N. C. Kelkar made it a bi-weekly since 3rd August 1929, and it was published every Tuesday and Friday.

Annie BesantIn 1916, Home Rule League established by Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, she used print medium a propaganda vehicle. She started ‘Madras Standard’ and renamed as ‘New India’. New India came with full page editorial; news reflected the nation and freedom struggle. Her writing and ideas of editorial were appreciated; she involved herself in print medium. In 1919 government introduce Rowlatt Act (government had the power to arrest people without trial they suspect with the charge of terrorism). Hence she fought for

freedom of press through her writing. In 1920, Annie started National University to bring discipline in journalism. Diploma in journalism course was started, internship for student in New India. Thus she called as ‘Torch Bearer of Indian Liberty’ and ‘Pioneer of Journalism’. Due to the first World war there was a setback in the newspaper industry, hence printing cost were increased on side and subscriber of the newspapers were decreased on other side.

GandhiIn 1915 Gandhi returns from South Africa. He started a chain of newspaper, ‘Young India’ and ‘Navegiean’ weekly in Gujarati. His writing styles were simple and clear to the readers, hence unity and liberty spread among Indians. Gandhi’s disciples started the same newspapers in other languages in India, and then he took part in freedom struggle. In 1921 worldwide campaign on poverty, women rights, ending untouched ability and so on. In 1930, Dandi Salt March (protesting British-imposed salt tax) was given wide publicity by the newspapers. Indian National Congress government later reduced the press laws hence the INC and press becomes closer. In 1938, ‘National Herald’ newspaper was started by INC; it’s fully supported the INC activities. In 1941, ‘Dina Thandi’ Tamil newspaper daily was founded by Sri. Pa. Aditanar, with its first edition from Madurai. In 1941, first Advertisement Company ‘National Services Company’ started in Bombay. From 1941 to 1950 was the only service company for advertisements. In 1940’s Indian Eastern Newspaper Society, now it’s Indian Newspaper Society, it acts as a bridge between newspaper organization and the government. News prints were allotted by the government according to the requirement of newspapers. Vernacular press came into play to develop the Indian languages. From 1780-1947, of print revolution in newspaper industry. 

Articles published in the newspapers ofpre-independence period.

The following extracts taken from the reports provide us with an idea of the strong feelings against the Government which were running just below the surface:

The following are from the May reports, 1875:

“The ‘Rohilkhand Akhbar’ noticing the recent disturbances in Karipatan (Baroda) remarks that all this is the result of the unjust procedure adopted by Government in the case of the Maharaja  Malhar Rao, and of its foolish adherence to the opinions of the English members of the Baroda Commission….”

“The ‘Akhbar-i-Anjuman-i-Panjab’ of 14 May, joins its contemporaries in welcoming the approaching visit of the Prince of Wales to India. The editor also notices the various opinions expressed by the English and the Anglo-Indian journals, as to whether the expenses consequent on the Prince’s visit should be borne by the Indian or the Home Government….”

The following is from the June reports, 1880:

“The Ashraf-ul-Akhbar of the 21st June states that when Lord Lytton came to India natives warmly welcomed him. It was expected that he would greatly improve the condition of the country. The Imperial Assemblage held by him at Delhi and the minute recorded by him in the Fuller case excited great hopes in the minds of the natives, but unfortunately they have been disappointed. He has brought odium on himself by his subsequent mischievous acts…. He gagged the vernacular press in order that natives may not be able to criticise his acts. He aggrieved the hearts of the native chiefs by his hostile attitude towards them…. The natives will never forget the troubles and hardships to which they were exposed during his administration…. Lord Ripon, the new Liberal Viceroy, has arrived and we hope that he will remedy all the evils….”

The following is from the August reports, 1886:

“The Aftab-i-Hind (Jalandar) of the 28th August says that Englishmen appear to be a very selfish people. They are ready to call any one their father when they require any services of him, but they will have nothing to do with him when he is of no use to them. Their conduct does not differ much from that of prostitutes in this respect….”

Those below are from the reports for August 1891:

“The Najm-ul-Akhbar (Etawah) of the 16th August, says that there can hardly be two opinions that this country is sinking deeper and deeper into poverty, and that this growing poverty is due to the drain of wealth to England…”

“The ‘Azad (Lucknow), of the 21st August, complains of the alleged growing poverty of this country, and asks the leaders of the native community not to waste their time and money in political agitation, the spread of literacy education and other such matters, but to encourage trade, arts and industries by the establishment of joint-stock companies….”

The extract below is from the reports for November 1894:

“The ‘Bharat Jiwan’ (Benares), of the 5th November, …says that India was once prosperous, and that the fame of her riches spread far and wide…the possession of India has made them (Britain) one of the richest nations in the world…. But the growing poverty of this country is now viewed with grave anxiety and fear by wise and well informed politicians. During the last twenty years the incomes of the people have considerably fallen off, but still there has been a steady increase in taxation….”

The state of the railways and the conditions passengers endured was always a popular topic in the papers. The extract below from a report in 1895 states:

A leader in the Malayalam ‘Kerala Patrika’ of the 2nd November, says that most of the carriages attached to the local train running from Calicut to Tirur and Podanur are leaky and uncomfortable. As the carriages have no shutters to the windows, the passengers are greatly inconvenienced by being exposed to the rain and sun in all seasons. When the railway fares are being increased day by day, it is the bounden duty of the company to see to the comfort and convenience of the passengers….”

The main topic of discussion and debate was the growth of nationalistic feeling and a desire for independence and these themes can be followed in the reports.

This extract from a report for May 1895 describes how Indian politics are being discussed more frequently in Parliament:

“The ‘Swadesamitran’ of the 21st May informs that at the last meeting of Parliament Messrs Caine, Wedderburn and Naoroji questioned the Secretary of State regarding the Opium Commission and the War in Chitral and that Indian politics and Indian affairs, which have been hitherto rare topics of discussion in Parliament are now being daily discussed there. The paper adds that this is due to the agitation of the Congress.”

In 1904 the feelings of disillusionment and resentment against the British rulers were growing:

“The ‘Vrittanta Chintamani’ of the 20th April, referring to an article in the ’Kolar Gold Field News’ approving of the appointment of an European as the chief Judge of Mysore, and suggesting that all the high appointments should be given to Europeans says:- ‘Formerly, the few Europeans that did come were not in the habit of bringing in their friends and relatives. But now the old order has changed. And if no public protest is made…the Mysore Province, will like British India, be flooded by the Europeans….”

The next, also from a report for the week ending 23 April 1904, states:

“The ‘Suryodaya Prakasika’ of the 20th April, says that though the majority of the people of India are poor and have to maintain their families with an income of 6 or 7 rupees , yet heavy taxes have been imposed upon them. Since the advent of the Europeans, the wealth of India has been finding its way through various channels into England, America, Germany, France and other countries and the result is that India has been much impoverished and falls a prey to frequent famines….”

By 1914 the liberty of the Press and the Press Act were major topics in many of the papers. The following extract from the report for the week ending 19th January 1914 states:

“The ‘Mysore Star’ writes: One of the prime causes of the advancement of the Western methods of government is the liberty of the press…. It was on the analogy of Western methods of rule that the British had given us the privilege of a free press. Latterly, when the misdeeds of some Indians led the Government to curtail this privilege by means of the Press Act, it was hoped that the new measure would be repealed as soon as the situation was found to have improved. But contrary to all expectations, it appears likely to remain permanently on the statute book…..”

The following is from the report for the week ending 8 March 1919:

“The ‘Indian Patriot’ of the 5th March observes:- The history of the Indian press is one long story of dismal sufferings, cruel persecution and unaccountable misery. Newspapers have been banned from entry to certain provinces in India; they have been gagged with security and forfeiture and confiscation; they have been tormented in diverse ways; their independence is gone and it is a struggle for existence….”

By 1918 nationalist sentiments had developed even further and much is reported on Home Rule for India and the activities of Mahatma Gandhi:

“’Justice’ of the 1st April writing on the Home Rule deputation to England says: ‘The British Empire is fighting for a just and noble cause, the cause of human freedom, of peace and righteousness on earth. The British people must therefore see that in the false name of freedom and liberty and so forth they do not hand over the vast and ignorant millions of India, tied hand and foot, to the most insidious, the most artful, the most cunning and the most relentless class, which has ever been known in the history of mankind….”

“The ‘Andhrapatrika’ of the 28th March says: Mr Gandhi preached the principle of passive resistance to the riots of Kaira with the result that the latter submitted a memorial refusing to pay land assessment under any circumstances. The firmness of Mr Gandhi cannot be made light of. It will be well for the Bombay Government to heed the representations of the people at once and do justice….”

The following extracts taken from the reports show the development of nationalism.

The following are from the reports for 1901:

“The ‘Indian Appeal’ (Benares) of the 10th May says:- Many of us will agree with the Viceroy when he told the Muhammedans, that the twentieth century was certain, whatever else it might

bring forth, to be a century of great intellectual activity, of far reaching scientific discovery, and of probable unparalleled invention. That is all very grand. But what part are the Indians going to play in this intellectual arena….?”

“The ‘Roznamcha-i-Qaisari’ (Allahabad), of the 15th September, complains that it would seem that a European gentleman has kicked a native to death near the Allahabad Railway Station. It is a pity that the life of a native is considered to be of no more value than that of a pariah dog. In what a helpless condition the natives are! May God have mercy on them!....”

The following are from the reports for 1910:

“…the editor of the ‘Karmayagi’ (Allahabad) writes: There are many obstacles in the way of Indian nationalists…. Indians, should however never lose courage for no nation was created to occupy for ever a subordinate position in this universe. Even those that are ruled over by foreigners today have a right to govern and manage their own affairs themselves…. The editor reminds his readers that numerous hardships and sufferings will have to be borne and manifold virtues cultivated before India can rise higher in the state of nations….”

The following is from the reports for 1916:

“The ‘Prem’ (Brindaban, Muttra) of the 26th July 1916 publishes a poem by Judh Singh Varma deploring the degraded condition of Indians as represented by their object poverty. Starvation, sectarian strifes and mutual animosities, is the decay of their trade and industry, in the prevalence of famine and disease and in their social degeneration. They have already been reduced to helplessness by the imposition of taxes. He exorts them to shake off indolence, to spread education in the country, to be united for mutual service, to give up evil social customs to cultivate physical culture and to be self-respecting and self-confident. They should take to trade and industry. They should not hanker after service, but seek independence…”

The extracts below are from the reports for January 1928 regarding the Muslim League and the Liberal Federation:

“Very few papers have so far commented on the proceedings of the Muslim League…. ‘The Leader’ writes:- The split in the Muslim League will be regretted by those who attach greater importance to communal than national unity…. ‘The Indian Daily Telegraph’ writes:- In spite of the great shortcomings which were the outcome of the mischievous anti-national activities of the Shaffian clique the Calcutta session of the All-Indian Muslim League was a great success….”

“The ‘Leader’ writes:- The address delivered by Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru as President of the National Liberal Federation of India at Bombay is a master-piece. The whole of the address will be read by our countrymen not only with satisfaction but with pride. It ought to be read by Englishmen with a sense of deep humiliation. But a people in whom there is no humility cannot easily be shamed into a confession of wrong-doing….”

The following is from the reports for 1936:

“…. Muslim papers condemn the socialistic & revolutionary programme advocated by Mr Nehru and regard it as being calculated to lead to anarchy and a bloody civil war…. Some Muslim papers deplore the paucity of Muslims in the Congress and advise them to join it provided it abandons its anti-Muslim attitude and socialistic policy…. The ‘Daily Pratap’ regards Pandit J Nehru’s address as a reflection of his career and says that every word of it bears the stamp of sincerity and honesty….”

Advertising during Pre-Independence Period

Advertising in India has created an incredible awareness among the people in the past decade growing in to big industry. It has grown along with the press and today it has found its way into the other two media - Radio and Television.

Advertising, which was an American concept originally, has found its place in a country like India, so much so that the number of commercials has doubled in the media.

Advertising in India grew with the Indian press. In the initial period, to advertise meant to inform. The early newspapers and magazines announced births, deaths, arrivals of ships from England, sale of household furniture etc.

Press advertisements – largely imported goods which had reached Indian shores

First advertise published in “Bengal Gazette” on January 29, 1790.

In the beginning of the nineteenth century new products, discounts and special services got their place in advertisements. Thus, gradually advertising started gaining power. It increased with the growth of trade and commerce.

The leading newspapers like The Times of India and the statesman had their own advertising departments which prepared layouts for advertisements.

In early 20th century the advertising agencies such as Indian Advertising Agency and Calcutta Advertising Agency were started.

In 1922 first Indian advertisement agency started Alliance Advertising Association Ltd at Bombay, in 1924 the Calcutta Publishing, in 1925 the Central Publishing service, in 1926 Mr. I.S. Talor set up the Publicity Society of India to exploit advertising possibilities on trams, kiosks and other outdoor media, in 1930 New India Publicity Co., in 1934 Mr. V. Sista, Sales and Publicity Service, in 1937 Alpha Advertising Service, in 1938 Lintas ans Press Syndicates Indian and Eastern Newspaper Society (IENS)

The Indian professionals also learnt how to motivate the masses through advertising. Between 1922 - 1939 many advertising agencies came up such as New India Publicity Co., Paradise advertising Agency of Calcutta, and National Advertising Agency and so on.

During Second World War, press advertising was used extensively to raise funds for the war.

The Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) was established in 1945, training an authority to represent the interests and problems of advertising profession. At the time of independence, advertising business was expanding.

It grew technically also with the introduction of multi-color printing, and improved printing machines. Commercial art also grew as a profession which boosted the advertising business. Cinema advertising began in this period. Kolkata got the privilege of India’s first ad club. Leading ad agency - Press Syndicate was established. National created the Murphy baby .

During pre-independence era, Indian advertisements were mostly about clothes, travelling, eating and entertainment places, India, hotels, four-wheelers, tea, Cigarettes gramophones and tailoring shops for Britishers in India and the princely families.

RADIO BEFORE INDEPENDENCE

The birth of Radio broadcasting in India has started on an experimental basis in the year 1921 when Times of India in collaboration with Post and Telegraph Department broadcasts a musical programme . Sir George Lloyd put forward this request

to those concerned companies. In 1927 private radio clubs proliferated. In the year 1930 radio broadcasting started operating under the Indian Broadcasting Company. However, the company went into liquidation after a span of three years and the Government took the charge of broadcasting at their own expense. On March 1935 a separate office of the Controller of Broadcasting was created .The landmark in the history of broadcasting is the change of the name of the Indian Broadcasting to All India Radio (AIR) in the year 1936. In the same year Delhi station was formed. From 1936 onwards the development of radio broadcasting was sluggish but steadfast. Nine AIR stations opened up in different places like Delhi, Calcutta, Bombay, Madras, Lucknow and Tiruchi. From 1957 onwards AIR was popularly known as Akashvani. Eminent personalities had lent their voices for radio broadcasting. On 12th November, 1947, the voice of Gandhiji was broadcasted in AIR. Keeping in view the motto, "Bahujan Hitaya; Bahujan Sukhaya" i.e. the benefit and happiness of large sections of the people, AIR aims to provide information, education and entertainment. It has defined its objectives in the following:

1. Preserve the country`s unity and the democratic values as shrined in the Constitution;

2. Present a reasonable and equilibrated flow of data of national, regional, local and international concern including contrastive views.

Citation of any opinion or ideology of its own should be avoided. Integrity of the whole nation should be respected. Variety in broadcasting should be incorporated.

3. Develop programmes which can arouse, communicate, elucidate, train, entertain and improve to satisfy all the audiences through out

the nation.

4. Formulate different programmes for broadcasting, keeping in mind all sections of people of the nation.

5. Prepare developmental and reference programmes on various fields like Agriculture, Education, Health and FamilyWelfare , Science

and Technology.

6. Prepare programmes for rustic, illiterate and poor population including the youths , social and cultural minorities, the tribes and of

those occupying the borders , backward or distant areas.

7. Encourage consolidation and harmony of the nation.

AIR today has a network of 223 broadcasting centres with 143 medium frequency(MW), 54 high frequency (SW) and 161 FM transmitters. It encompasses an area of 91.42% serving 99.13% of the people in India. AIR covers 24 Languages and 146 dialects in home services.

Parallel Radio Network established for Independence struggle

As to the Congress Radio Secret Broadcasts, these took place in the latter part of 1942, and a major participant was Ms. Usha Mehta, a Gandhian activist and Indian Independence hero.

An amateur radio operator, Mr. Nariman Abarbad Printer provided the transmitter for Congress Radio. According to court documents quoted in the book, Printer was "an expert in radio engineering and was the Principal of the Bombay

Technical Institute, Byculla." Upon returning from England in 1938 he obtained an amateur radio licence, and purchased a transmitter to give training to his students. On the outbreak of World War II in 1939, his amateur licence was cancelled along with all others, and he was ordered to turn in his transmitter to the colonial authorities. However, he instead dismantled the transmitter and hid the parts.The All India Congress Committee held a meeting in Bombay on 7th and 8th August, 1942.   Main Congress leaders including Gandhiji were arrested on 9th August, and news media were ordered not to report anything but official news. Due to this censorship situation, Congress leaders approached Printer, knowing he was an amateur radio operator, an Indian patriot, and had transmitter parts in his posession. They asked him to make a clandestine transmitter for the Independence movement.  Printer eagerly agreed, and after purchasing some missing parts and replacing a  microphone, provided a working 40-metre AM transmitter. This was ultimately set up in a rented flat at the top floor of the Sea View Building, Chowpatty, Bombay, and the first broadcast was made on 27 August, 1942. The transmitter was later moved to avoid surveillance from the colonial authorities, and ultimately transmitted from seven different rented flats in the Bombay area.  The original power of the transmitter was only 10 watts, but Printer later boosted the power to 100 watts, with equipment   obtained from a patriotic radio-parts seller, "Chicago Radio Co." of Bombay. Transmissions were between 6.55 and 7.1 MHz. Mehta usually broadcast the programs, with "Babubhai and Printer as relief announcers.Printer and some other Congress Radio personnel were arrested on 12 November 1942.  Under intense interrogation Printer was forced to reveal the location of the clandestine transmitter, and that evening Mehta and another announcer were also arrested at the end of their clandestine broadcast. In their trial Printer was freed on a plea-bargain, and the Chicago Radio Co. defendents were acquitted, but Mehta, Khakar and another defendant were convicted and sentenced to "rigorous imprisonment." Mehta being a slight, 22-year old graduate student suffered particularly harshly, and ultimately greeted the coming of Independence from her sick-bed as a direct result of the treatment she received in the colonial prison. Interestingly enough, this whole episode seems to have been largely omitted or overlooked in "official" Congress histories.  This, even though

Congress Radio was a mainline Congress activity, and completely unconnected with either Subhash Chandra Bose and his Japanese-sponsored Indian National Army, or with the so-called National Congress Radio, which was a Nazi operation from Berlin. Note that tapes of actual Congress Radio Broadcasts are available from.

Bibliography

"Congress Secret Broadcasts and Storming Railway Tracks", a book edited by Symalendu Sengupta and Gautam Chatterjee.

www.rivr.sulekha.com

www.presscouncil.nic.in

www.ampltd.co.uk