Sarla Maheshwari passed away in Delhi on Thursday at the age of 71, a role she played as one of the most recognised voices in Indian television. The family friend and former co-anchor, Shammi Narang, confirmed her death, marking the end of an era for Indian broadcast journalism.
Sarla Maheshwari worked at Doordarshan for 29 years, from 1976 to 2005. Her gentle voice, perfect pronunciation, and dignified on-screen presence made her a trusted household name during the 1980s and 1990s, when Doordarshan was India’s main source of television news.
She began her broadcasting career in 1976 while pursuing her PhD at Delhi University. Her work as a news announcer led to a successful career, during which she helped shape Indian television’s evolution from black-and-white to colour broadcasts. Her credibility as a professional news anchor made her a vital presence in Indian households, as families across the country watched television news every day.
Sarla Maheshwari moved to the United Kingdom between 1984 and 1986, where she worked as a BBC newsreader before returning to India. She worked as a news anchor while also teaching journalism and education at Hansraj College, Delhi University.
Sarla Maheshwari’s legacy extends beyond her professional achievements. She represented an era of television journalism that combined serious presentation with authentic reporting and trustworthy delivery, defining Doordarshan’s golden age. Her last rites were performed at Nigam Bodh Ghat at 4:00 PM on Thursday.
The entire broadcasting community, along with viewers across India, mourns the passing of an authentic television journalist who contributed to the development of Indian television news.
