A large crowd, including politicians, journalists, and radio producers, gathered alongside relatives and friends at the First Cemetery to say their final “goodbye” to Andreas Mazarakis.
Andreas Mazarakis wrote for “Parapolitika,” where he had a column “Ex Aporeiton” in “Apogevmatini,” and was also active on the radio, on Parapolitika 90.1 FM. The show “O Exarchion” on “Parapolitika” 90.1 was a staple for many listeners.
Andreas Mazarakis was born in Metaxourgeio during the Civil War. He graduated from the 5th Gymnasium in Exarchia. He studied at the Athens University of Economics and Business (ASOEE), Department of Economics, from which he graduated in 1974. He continued his studies at the Athens Law School, from which he received his law degree in 1978. At the same time, he attended the National Theater’s Drama School (1967–1970) and graduated from the Kostis Michailidis School of Drama. He also studied for five years at the Athens Conservatory, focusing on voice and accordion.
During the dictatorship, he was arrested repeatedly for his involvement in the student movement and was forcibly conscripted in February 1973. He served as chair of the Committee for the Removal of Dictatorship-Era Appointments, which dealt with professors at the University of Athens, the National Technical University of Athens, and the Athens School of Economics.
He worked for many years in the food import and export sector, making numerous trips to countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. From Tehran and India to Cuba, he encountered diverse cultures and societies—experiences he often drew upon in his public appearances and storytelling. At the same time, he was involved in acting and journalism, but it was radio that ultimately won his heart.
With the distinctive timbre of his voice, the candor of his speech, and his independent thinking, he managed to gain a devoted following and leave his own mark on Greek radio.
Among others, those present at the venue included Pavlos Marinakis, Adonis Georgiadis, Takis Theodorikakos, Nikos Hardalias, Giorgos Mavrotas, Evangelos Meimarakis, Haris Doukas, Kostas Bakoyannis, Alexis Tsipras, Nikos Pappas, Panagiotis Lafazanis, and others. The coffin containing the remains of Andreas Mazarakis was draped with the flag of his favorite soccer team, Asteras Exarchion.
