From Radio Sofia to Radio Bulgaria: 56 years of loyal listening

Listeners’ appreciation is never something we take for granted. It motivates us to strive to do our work better and better every time. The 90th anniversary of Radio Bulgaria unexpectedly brought us a great number of wonderful letters filled with praise and gratitude - for which we are deeply thankful.

Mr. Jayanta Chakrabarty from New Delhi is one of our longest-time listeners. Today we are pleased to publish the kind letter he sent us:

“As a long-time regular listener to your radio station, I send my heartiest felicitations on the happy occasion of your 90th anniversary. I am proud to say that I have been a loyal listener for almost 56 years, back when it was known as ‘Radio Sofia’.

Radio Bulgaria has acted as a window to beautiful Bulgaria, through which I gathered valuable educational and creative knowledge about the chequered history, culture, traditions and modern economic development of this ancient nation. I am greatly indebted to Radio Bulgaria for helping me enhance my knowledge of the English language, which is not my mother tongue.

It has been a long and eventful journey for Radio Bulgaria since launching its international programme in 1936. Over the years, it has matured into a responsible radio station, providing authentic and unbiased news and reports on events in Bulgaria and the neighbouring Balkan countries. Wading through political upheavals and technological transitions, it has never forgotten its role as a public broadcaster — preserving cultural identity while maintaining a warm and friendly relationship with its global audience.

I wish BNR all the best in the coming years and look forward to celebrating the upcoming 100th anniversary, as well as World Radio Day 2026.

I have learned that BNR is preparing a commemorative series of QSL cards, which will surely become treasured mementos for its listeners.

Please find attached my photo and a picture of my radio receiver (National Panasonic). This receiver was a gift from my father on my eleventh birthday, and Radio Sofia was one of the first international stations I tuned into. If memory serves me right, Radio Sofia broadcast on 11725 kHz in those days.

With warm regards from India,
Jayanta Chakrabarty”

We thank Mr. Chakrabarty for his kind words and for his loyalty throughout the years. We are also grateful for his enduring interest in our country. Knowing that our efforts have helped spark and sustain his connection to all things Bulgarian fills us with pride.

Editor: Elizabeth Radkova