Retired Teacher's Home in Gujarat Houses a Living Museum of Over 400 Radios

A Symphony of Sound: Gujarat Home Becomes a Living Radio Museum

In the quiet town of Chalala, nestled within Amreli district, the timeless melody of Madan Mohan's classic 'Lag Ja Gale Ke Phir Yeh Haseen Raat Ho No...' gently fills the air as one steps into Danev Society. Follow the nostalgic tune, and it leads to a remarkable home where every corner whispers tales of India's rich musical heritage through an extraordinary collection of radios.

A Residence Transformed into a Time Capsule

This is the abode of 80-year-old Suleman Dal, a retired drawing teacher whose passion has turned his residence into what many now call a "radio museum." On World Radio Day, celebrated every February 13, his home feels less like a living space and more like a portal to multiple eras of sound technology. The collection boasts over 400 radios, each meticulously placed not behind glass but integrated into daily life—perched on kitchen shelves, nestled in hall corners, lining gallery walls, and even resting beside beds.

Spanning Generations of Audio Technology

Suleman's assemblage spans the evolution of radio design, from early valve radios that command attention with their imposing three to four-foot lengths to sophisticated multi-band receivers capable of capturing distant international broadcasts late into the night. Some sets feature an impressive 15 to 26 bands, harking back to a time when tuning a dial felt like a journey across borders, connecting listeners to far-off lands and cultures.

Suleman's fascination with electronics began in childhood and was later honed through formal courses. Where others might see scrap or relics, he sees dormant circuitry waiting to be revived. He personally repairs every radio, skillfully coaxing life back into aging valves and worn-out components. Over the decades, this hobby quietly expanded, set by set, era by era, until it blossomed into the extensive collection that draws admiration today.

Evocative Artifacts and Historical Significance

Among the most poignant items in the museum is a preserved radio license book, a relic from an era when owning a radio required official permission. This artifact serves as a powerful reminder of radio's once-rare and regulated status, highlighting its role as a powerful medium that connected villages to nations and households to historical events, shaping public consciousness across India.

The fame of Suleman's collection has transcended Chalala, attracting visitors from across Gujarat and major cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Rajkot. Many leave not just marveling at the machines but deeply impressed by the man behind them—his unwavering discipline, immense patience, and undiminished enthusiasm at 80 years old. His dedication has turned a personal passion into a community treasure.

A Family Legacy of Preservation

Behind the scenes, this museum is a heartfelt family endeavor. Suleman's four sons actively support the effort, with his youngest, Munawar Dal, playing a key role in maintaining and organizing the collection. Together, they ensure that the voices of the past continue to speak clearly, preserving audio history for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

This living museum stands as a testament to the enduring power of radio, celebrating not just technology but the human spirit of curiosity and preservation. It invites all to step back in time and listen to the stories embedded in every dial and speaker.