Doordarshan, India’s public service broadcaster, proudly marks its 65th anniversary this year. Since its establishment on 15th September 1959, Doordarshan has been at the forefront of Indian media, promoting unity, culture, and education while serving as the nation’s voice.
From its modest beginnings with an experimental broadcast in Delhi, Doordarshan has grown into one of the world’s largest broadcasting organizations. Over the decades, it has undergone significant changes in technology and audience engagement, yet its commitment to public service broadcasting has remained unwavering. From black-and-white transmissions to today’s digital and satellite networks, Doordarshan has continually adapted to meet the evolving tastes and needs of its diverse audience. Its network now includes 35 channels, featuring six national channels, 28 regional channels, and an international channel, ensuring that every region’s language and culture find representation.
65 Years of Service and Growth
For the past 65 years, Doordarshan has played a pivotal role in India’s socio-cultural development. It has been the stage for iconic shows that have shaped generations, such as “Ramayana,” “Mahabharat,” “Chitrahaar,” “Surabhi,” and “Hum Log.” Beyond entertainment, Doordarshan has also been instrumental in bridging the gap between rural and urban India, raising awareness on key social issues through educational and informative programming.
Special Program to Celebrate the Milestone
To celebrate this milestone, DD National is set to broadcast a special program, “Dil Se Doordarshan, DD@65,” a grand event hosted by Jaiveer Bansal and Anil Singh. The show will feature performances from renowned artists, including Pramod Kumar, an international magician and Guinness World Record holder, and Manisha Swarnkar, one of India’s leading sand artists and the country’s first female sand artist. The event’s star performer will be the Padma Shri awardee Kailash Kher, a Bollywood sensation known for his distinctive fusion of Indian folk and Sufi music. Actor Manoj Bajpayee has provided the voiceover for the Doordarshan show reel, adding to the celebration’s allure.
The special show will air at 10:00 AM on 15th September, with a repeat telecast at 8:00 PM on DD National.
As it celebrates 65 years, Doordarshan reaffirms its commitment to delivering reliable, accessible, and quality content to every citizen. Embracing technological advancements, the broadcaster continues to reach audiences across multiple platforms—from traditional television to mobile devices—ensuring it remains a trusted source of news, entertainment, and information.
As Doordarshan enters its 66th year, it stands ready to continue its legacy of innovation and service. With a history rich in culture and a steadfast dedication to public service, Doordarshan remains a beacon of India’s diversity, heritage, and progress.