News Broadcasting
Sarla Maheshwari, a defining face of Doordarshan news, dies at 71
Veteran anchor was part of Doordarshan’s formative news years
New Delhi: Sarla Maheshwari, one of the most recognisable faces of Doordarshan’s early news bulletins and a pioneer of Indian television journalism, has died in Delhi at 71.
The former news reader, who was on air for nearly three decades from 1976 to 2005, belonged to a generation that shaped TV news when broadcasting ran only a few hours a day and credibility rested squarely on the anchor’s voice and presence.
Her death on Thursday was confirmed by former colleague and family friend Shammi Narang, who shared the news on X and Instagram. “I feel utmost grief in announcing the sad demise of my ex co-news anchor at Doordarshan, Sarala Maheshwari,” Narang wrote.
Remembering her warmly, Narang called Maheshwari “the embodiment of grace and courtesy”.
“Beautiful not just in appearance but even more so at heart, she had a remarkable command over language and was a reservoir of knowledge. Her presence on the Doordarshan screen had a unique aura. She respected everyone and uplifted every space she was part of,” he said.
Maheshwari’s career tracked the evolution of Indian television itself—from black-and-white telecasts to the arrival of colour broadcasts. According to reports, she joined Doordarshan after completing a PhD at Delhi University, bringing academic rigour to a medium still finding its voice.
Doordarshan National paid tribute in a post on X, saying: “A heartfelt tribute from the Doordarshan family to Smt. Sarla Maheshwari. She was a respected and esteemed newsreader of Doordarshan, who carved out a special place in the Indian news world with her gentle voice, precise pronunciation, and dignified presentation. Her simplicity, restraint, and personality established deep trust in the hearts of viewers.”
Her last rites will be held at Nigam Bodh Ghat at 4 pm.
In an age before shouting matches and breaking-news tickers, Maheshwari represented a quieter authority—measured, composed and trusted. The screen has changed beyond recognition since her debut. The memory of that calm, steady voice has not.
News Broadcasting
Kamlesh Singh receives Haldi Ghati Award from MMCF
India Today Group editor honoured for three decades of journalism at Udaipur ceremony.
MUMBAI- Kamlesh Singh just turned a lifetime of sharp words into a shiny shield because when journalism wakes up a society, even the Maharana of Mewar wants to pin a medal on it.
The Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF) conferred its prestigious Haldi Ghati Award on Kamlesh Singh, a senior editor at the India Today Group, during a ceremony in Udaipur on 15 March 2026. The national award, instituted in 1981-82, recognises “work of permanent value that initiates an awakening in society through the medium of journalism.”
Singh, who leads several editorial initiatives including Aaj Tak Radio, the Teen Taal community and The Lallantop, was presented the honour by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Managing Trustee of MMCF. The citation highlighted his three decades of contributions to Indian media, innovations in digital journalism, mentoring young reporters, and his popular podcast persona “Tau” on Teen Taal, which fosters thoughtful public discourse.
The Haldi Ghati Award, named after the historic Battle of Haldighati symbolising valour and resilience, is one of four national awards given annually by MMCF. Past recipients include Tavleen Singh, Piyush Pandey and Raj Chengappa.
Other honourees this year included Padma Vibhushan Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Vedamurti Devvrat Rekhe, Treeman of India Marimuthu Yoganathan, Vir Chakra Capt Rizwan Malik, and US-based researcher Molly Emma Aitken, who received the Colonel James Tod Award for contributions to understanding Mewar’s spirit and values.
In an era where headlines often shout louder than substance, the MMCF quietly reminded everyone that real journalism isn’t about noise, it’s about the quiet, persistent work that stirs society awake, one thoughtful story at a time.
