Doordarshan Diaries: Sheila Chaman Recalls TV's Power to Unite India

• 2020 lockdown re-telecast of Ramayan and Mahabharat garnered record viewership, highlighting Doordarshan's nostalgic appeal.
• Veteran journalist Sheila Chaman's book "Doordarshan Diaries" chronicles the era when TV fostered national unity and shared experiences.
• Doordarshan began in 1959 with modest resources, evolving into a vast network and a cultural phenomenon that brought communities together.
• Chaman's book details the challenges faced by early newsreaders, including live broadcasts without teleprompters and emotional reporting.
• The article emphasizes Doordarshan's role in shaping collective memory, with anchors like Chaman serving as role models for millions.

Why It Matters: Sheila Chaman's book celebrates Doordarshan's unique role in uniting India through shared television experiences.