Identifying All India Radio's Popular 1957 Channel

The question asks about a specific channel acquired by All India Radio (AIR) in the year 1957 that became very popular and generated significant revenue. We need to identify this channel from the given options.

Let's look at the options provided:

• Hum Log
• Vividh Bharati
• Doordarshan
• Buniyaad

Analysing the Options and the Context

The question specifically refers to a "channel" that was part of All India Radio (AIR) and was acquired in 1957. It became very popular and financially successful ("money-spinning"). Let's consider each option:

Hum Log and Buniyaad:

These were both iconic television serials broadcast in India, not radio channels. They were immensely popular but were associated with Doordarshan, India's public television broadcaster, not All India Radio's radio services. Also, they aired much later than 1957.

Doordarshan:

Doordarshan is India's public television broadcaster. While related to government broadcasting, it is distinct from All India Radio, which focuses on radio broadcasting. The question asks for a radio channel acquired by AIR.

Vividh Bharati:

Vividh Bharati is a prominent service of All India Radio. It was indeed launched on October 2, 1957. It was created to provide entertainment programming, including popular music, skits, and short plays, and was designed to compete with Radio Ceylon's popular commercial service at the time. Vividh Bharati quickly gained immense popularity across the country due to its light entertainment format. It also introduced commercial advertising on AIR, which made it a significant source of revenue, thus fitting the description of a "money-spinning channel".

Conclusion on the All India Radio Channel

Based on the history of All India Radio and its various services, Vividh Bharati perfectly matches the description given in the question: a hugely popular channel acquired by AIR in 1957 that became a money-spinning venture.

Therefore, the name of the channel is Vividh Bharati.

Revision Table: Key Broadcasting Terms

Additional Information about Vividh Bharati and AIR

Vividh Bharati played a crucial role in retaining listeners for All India Radio during a time when commercial radio stations like Radio Ceylon's Commercial Service were gaining popularity, partly due to their focus on film music and light entertainment, and their ability to carry advertisements. AIR, being a public service broadcaster, initially had restrictions on commercial broadcasting. The launch of Vividh Bharati marked a shift, allowing AIR to broadcast popular content and generate revenue through advertisements, strengthening its financial position and reach.