#TBT: In 1972, Radio Guests Let Their Sarods Do the Talking

On Asia Society’s “Window on Asia” radio program in 1972, Lee Graham interviews Dr. Willard Rhodes about Indian music played by Vasant Rai (L), accompanied by Donald Heller (R). (Asia Society)

For 26 weeks from 1972 to 1973, Asia Society hosted a radio program on New York City's municipal radio station WNYC-AM titled "Window on Asia," which featured journalists, scholars, and performers with an Asian focus. In the above photo, host Lee Graham interviews Willard Rhodes, a scholar best known for his study and recording of Indian music. In the foreground, Indian music virtuouso Vasant Rai plays a sarod, accompanied by Donald Heller. 

Unfortunately, we don't have audio of the radio broadcast, but in the below video, you can hear another recording of Rai playing the sarod.

Each week for "Throwback Thursday" (#TBT), we'll reach into our archives to find a photo from the organization's nearly 60-year history. Some photos will feature important moments, some will feature important people, and others still will just be photos we love. Do you have an Asia Society photo you'd like us to consider including in this series? Please email the photo and any related details to [email protected] (we regret that we won't be able to respond directly to each inquiry).