Veteran Doordarshan Newsreader Sarla Maheshwari Dies at 71

New Delhi: Sarla Maheshwari, one of the most recognisable faces from Doordarshan’s golden era, died on Thursday. She was 71.

Doordarshan National confirmed her death through a social media post, paying tribute to the celebrated newsreader whose voice and presence made an enduring impact on Indian television journalism.

“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,” Doordarshan National wrote on X.

The public broadcaster noted that her understated style and composed demeanour won the confidence and affection of audiences nationwide.

Shammi Narang, a veteran news anchor who worked with Maheshwari, also expressed his sorrow.

“I feel utmost grief in announcing the sad demise of my ex co-News anchor at Doordarshan, Sarala Maheshwari. She was 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. I pray that God grants her soul eternal peace and gives strength to the Maheshwari family. Om Shanti,” Narang wrote in a post on X.

Maheshwari rose to prominence during the 1980s and 1990s, when Doordarshan was the dominant force in television news across India. She presented Hindi news bulletins with composure and clarity for nearly three decades, from 1976 until 2005, gaining widespread admiration for her measured tone and flawless diction.

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Her career in broadcasting started while she was pursuing a PhD at Delhi University. Following a successful audition as an announcer, she transitioned into news reading and became a constant presence as Indian television evolved from the black-and-white era to colour broadcasting.

With her calm authority and polished presentation, Sarla Maheshwari embodied a generation of news anchors who set the standard for credibility on screen.