Veteran Doordarshan news anchor Sarla Maheshwari passed away at the age of 71 in New Delhi, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian television journalism. Her calm presence, flawless pronunciation, and dignified style once defined the golden era of public broadcasting in the country. For countless viewers who grew up watching Doordarshan in the 1970s and 1980s, her voice was not just familiar — it was deeply trusted.
Doordarshan National expressed profound grief over her demise and paid a heartfelt tribute to the respected news presenter. In a message shared on social media, the broadcaster remembered her as a revered figure who carved a special place in Indian news with her gentle voice, precise pronunciation, and composed delivery. The statement highlighted how her simplicity and restraint built a strong sense of trust among viewers across generations.
Sarla Maheshwari began her journey with Doordarshan in 1976 while she was pursuing her PhD. She applied for the position of a news announcer and quickly distinguished herself with her clarity of speech and command over language. At a time when television news in India was still evolving, she became one of the early anchors to read news live on Indian television. Her professionalism and poised presentation style helped shape the standards of broadcast journalism during those formative years.
She worked with Doordarshan until 1984 before moving to the United Kingdom, where she served as a newsreader with the BBC until 1986. Her international experience added further depth to her already impressive broadcasting career. In 1988, she returned to India and rejoined Doordarshan, reconnecting with audiences who still remembered her distinctive voice and composed screen presence.
Former colleague and co-anchor Shammi Narang shared an emotional message remembering her as the embodiment of grace and courtesy. He described her as someone who possessed not only a remarkable command over language but also a warm and generous heart. He noted that her presence on the Doordarshan screen carried a unique aura and that she respected everyone she worked with. He prayed for strength for her family and eternal peace for her soul.
The All India Mahila Congress also paid tribute, calling her passing the end of a golden era of television journalism. The organization emphasized that her credibility, decency, and professionalism would continue to inspire future generations of journalists.
In today’s fast-paced and often sensational media environment, Sarla Maheshwari represented a different standard — one rooted in calm authority and disciplined presentation. She relied on clarity, preparation, and integrity rather than theatrics. Her voice delivered some of the nation’s most important updates and moments, and viewers trusted her because she respected the news and the audience alike.
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Her funeral will take place at 4 PM at Nigam Bodh Ghat in New Delhi. Family members, friends, colleagues, and admirers are expected to gather to bid her a final farewell.
With her passing, Indian television loses not just a veteran anchor but a symbol of credibility and grace. Sarla Maheshwari leaves behind a legacy that continues to set a benchmark for professionalism in broadcast journalism. Her voice may have fallen silent, but its echo will remain in the memory of a nation that once tuned in every evening to hear her speak.