Celebrating 65 Years of Doordarshan: India’s Public Service Broadcaster (GS Paper 3, Events)
Context
- On September 15, 2024, Doordarshan, India’s esteemed public service broadcaster, celebrates a significant milestone—its 65th anniversary.
- Since its inception on this day in 1959, Doordarshan has evolved from a modest black-and-white transmission service into one of the world’s largest broadcasting networks, comprising 35 channels that cater to diverse regional and international audiences.
Evolution of Broadcast
From Humble Beginnings:
Doordarshan began with experimental broadcasts in Delhi, operating a single channel in black-and-white. Today, it has expanded into a vast network with:
- 6 National Channels: Covering a wide range of topics including news, entertainment, and educational content.
- 28 Regional Channels: Broadcasting in various regional languages to cater to India’s linguistic diversity.
- 1 International Channel: Reaching Indian audiences abroad and promoting Indian culture globally.
This expansion reflects Doordarshan’s commitment to regional representation and accessibility, ensuring that every corner of India has a voice in its own language.
Impact on Indian Society
Cultural Influence:
Over the decades, Doordarshan has been instrumental in shaping India’s socio-cultural landscape. Iconic programs such as:
- "Ramayana" and "Mahabharat" - These epic television dramas have become cultural phenomena, resonating with generations of viewers.
- "Chitrahaar" and "Surabhi" - Showcased music and cultural content that became integral to Indian television history.
- "Hum Log" - The first Indian soap opera that addressed social issues and mirrored the changing face of Indian society.
Through its educational and informative programming, Doordarshan has facilitated cultural exchange, bridged the urban-rural divide, and raised awareness about significant social issues.
Special Anniversary Program
- To mark this landmark occasion, Doordarshan will broadcast a special program titled “Dil Se Doordarshan, DD@65” on DD National.
- The program will be aired at 10:00 AM, with a repeat at 8:00 PM on September 15.
Highlights of the Gala:
- Hosts: Master Jaiveer Bansal and ventriloquist Anil Singh.
- Performances: Featuring renowned artists like:
- Pramod Kumar: International magician and mentalist.
- Manisha Swarnkar: Acclaimed sand artist and IIT Bombay alumna.
- Kailash Kher: Padma Shri awardee known for his folk and Sufi music.
- Voiceover: The show reel will be narrated by the legendary actor Manoj Bajpayee.
Renewed Commitment
- As Doordarshan celebrates 65 years, it reaffirms its dedication to delivering reliable and high-quality content.
- Embracing the latest technological advancements, Doordarshan continues to reach audiences across various platforms, including television and mobile devices.
- Entering its 66th year, it remains committed to innovation and public service, reflecting India’s rich diversity and progress.
Looking Forward:
- Doordarshan’s journey from its initial broadcasts to a comprehensive multimedia network illustrates its resilience and adaptability.
- As it celebrates this milestone, Doordarshan's renewed commitment to public service and quality programming promises to keep it at the forefront of Indian media for years to come.
