Archive · 4 Jan 2026
Doordarshan Diaries: Sheila Chaman's Nostalgic Chronicle
Doordarshan, India's first television network, started in 1959 with just a few cameras and a small studio.
It grew to become a big part of people's lives, bringing families and neighborhoods together to watch shows like Ramayan and Mahabharat.
During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, Doordarshan repeated these shows, and millions of people watched them again, feeling nostalgic and comforted.
Sheila Chaman, a famous news anchor from Doordarshan, wrote a book about these memories and the early days of television in India.
The book talks about how Doordarshan was more than just a TV channel; it was a shared experience that connected people and created lasting memories.
Doordarshan began in 1959 with modest resources and grew into a nationwide network with 34 satellite channels and 66 studio centres.
During the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, Doordarshan's repeat telecast of Ramayan and Mahabharat attracted 77 million viewers, becoming the most-watched TV show in the world.
Sheila Chaman's book captures the nostalgia and cultural impact of Doordarshan, highlighting its role in bringing people together and shaping shared memories.
The early days of Doordarshan involved significant challenges, such as live broadcasts without teleprompters and the emotional weight of reporting on missing persons.
Doordarshan's signature tune, composed by Vasant Desai, became an iconic symbol of the network's identity.
- Who
- Sheila Chaman, a veteran journalist and news anchor, and the viewers of Doordarshan.
- What
- A book chronicling the history and impact of Doordarshan, India's public broadcasting service.
- When
- The book was published on January 04, 2026, and it discusses events from 1959 onwards.
- Where
- The events and impact of Doordarshan are discussed in the context of India.
- Why
- To capture the nostalgia and cultural impact of Doordarshan, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown.
- Author
- Sheila Chaman
- Publication Date
- January 04, 2026
- Initial Broadcast Year
- 1959
- Notable Shows
- Ramayan, Mahabharat
- Peak Viewership
- 77 million viewers on April 16, 2020
- Current Channels
- 34 satellite channels
- Studio Centres
- 66 studio centres across India
- Signature Tune Composer
- Vasant Desai