AurovilleRadio strives for genuine community representation and aims to be a resource for all interested in Auroville whether they reside locally or elsewhere in the world. As well as technical aspects associated with running a web-based communications platform, a lot of attention given to the meaning of media in the beginning of the third millennium with the digital convergence and Internet shift
. Methods of communication are changing, while the speed of technology evolves, seeking a new global balance. The Team
Project Coordinator Stefano is joined by a team of Aurovillians and volunteers who stay for varying amounts of time, researching, producing and editing content, as well as people with technical expertise in areas such as software and web development and management. Starting Point of Research
As an media executive in his former life in Europe, Andrea came to Auroville well aware of the ability of the media to distort messages and construct perceptions of life that don’t actually exist in reality. With this in mind he started AurovilleRadio with the desire to contribute to understanding, rather than create more subjective, and potentially distorted, ‘knowledge’ of what Auroville is and what it is like to live and work in the community. Auroville Radio began broadcasting on the internet in December 2004. Process and Development
As well as interviews, AurovilleRadio broadcasts workshops, meetings and conferences, all unedited, via the internet. Ad hoc programs of information, news and interviews with Aurovillians and guests who share their experiences in different fields of life in this community are also broadcast, allowing people in Auroville and around the world to share their experiences of Auroville and access information about the happenings in the community. The AurovilleRadio team aims to explore and develop ethics in communication, creating a valuable link between people of different cultures, and then share this research with specialists further afield. The Radio team search for authenticity in broadcasting, and attempt to present a true picture of the daily life of Auroville. Part of the value of AurovilleRadio is that it is not a polished product with professionally produced content. While some members of the team have been professionally trained in their fields of work, this is not a requirement of working here, and in fact those without prior professional experience are eagerly welcomed to participate. The work at AurovilleRadio is an ongoing workshop, a training ground for broadcasting. We are constantly learning and improving upon our foundations, while maintaining our raw edge. Everyone is on par with each other. Everyone can bring in ideas to radically try whatever makes sense. Achievements
Auroville Radio creates a forum for communication which is accessible via the Internet to anyone in Auroville or anywhere else around the world. It aims to create awareness and genuine understanding of life in Auroville at the present time. Archive programs also allow people to explore Auroville’s past. At least one hundred people have collaborated to create AurovilleRadio since its inception in 2003. It is an unending communications workshop where skill exchange is as important as the product. One of the most important achievements of AurovilleRadio is the sense of personal growth experienced by all who participate. Future Developments
Via the internet, AurovilleRadio is able to transmit information in a format that is accessible to a phenomenally large audience and can be easily retrieved at convenience. However, with the eagerly anticipated ability to transmit live and pre recorded shows via the new FM station, AurovilleRadio will increase its local audience, foster greater understanding about Auroville in the region and facilitate improved local communications. The FM station will become a community- building resource for the region. Needs
Participation in the development of the AurovilleRadio means exploring and testing innovative technology and new trends in the media evolution. Anyone is welcome to join AurovilleRadio for as little time or as long as they are able. We welcome people from all over the world who wish to get involved in this multilingual, multinational and multicultural social project. Experience or expertise in broadcasting is not a must, however willingness to learn and share any relevant skills you do have are enthusiastically encouraged. AurovilleRadio offers a great opportunity for people to work and stay as volunteers in Auroville and to get to know a very different way of sharing life with others. For many it’s an experience of a lifetime. Contact and Links
For more information about Auroville Radio, our team, our equipment, our current specific human resource needs, and to listen to programs, please refer to our website: www.aurovilleradio.org
If you would like to join the team or contribute in any other way, please contact us through our website (above) or at:
Town Hall (ground floor) Auroville
Tamil Nadu 605101 India
Phone: +91 (0)413 2623331
Alternatively, simply show up. Auroville Radio is located in the conference room of the Town Hall, Auroville. We welcome your involvement.