Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 12: Sarla Maheshwari, the esteemed Doordarshan news anchor, passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy of journalistic integrity and grace. Doordarshan National paid tribute on social media, remembering her for her “gentle voice, precise pronunciation, and dignified delivery,” noting that her simplicity and poise had earned the trust of viewers across India.

Veteran news anchor Shammi Narang, Maheshwari’s former colleague, expressed deep sorrow over her passing, describing her as “the embodiment of grace and courtesy” and praising her command over language and 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,” he wrote.

The Mahila Congress called her passing “the end of a golden era of television journalism,” highlighting that her credibility and decency will continue to inspire generations.

Maheshwari began her career at Doordarshan in 1976 as a news announcer while pursuing her PhD at Delhi University. She was among the first anchors to read live news on Indian television, during a period when Doordarshan was the nation’s primary news source. She worked with the broadcaster until 1984 before moving to the UK to join the BBC as a newsreader until 1986. On returning to India in 1988, she rejoined Doordarshan and continued shaping the face of television news for several more years.

Over nearly three decades, Maheshwari became a familiar and trusted presence in Indian homes, particularly during the early days of black-and-white and early colour TV, earning admiration for her calm, composed, and professional presentation style.