Join the online community as netizens express their condolences for the loss of a beloved news anchor on Doordarshan.
On Twitter, social media users expressed their sorrow and extended their sympathies upon hearing the news of the demise of a renowned news anchor from Doordarshan, Gitanjali Aiyar. Aiyar, a prominent journalist, had the distinction of being one of the initial English news presenters on the national broadcaster. Tragically, she passed away on Wednesday after dedicating more than three decades to the field of journalism. Throughout her illustrious career, she garnered numerous accolades, being recognized as the top TV news presenter on multiple occasions.
Aiyar’s association with Doordarshan began in 1971, and over the years, she demonstrated exceptional talent and professionalism, which earned her the prestigious title of the best anchor person four times. In addition to her news reading responsibilities, she also hosted a popular program called “A Date With You,” where she played English songs as per listeners’ requests. This show aired on Friday nights on All India Radio in Delhi.
One of the notable achievements in Gitanjali Aiyar’s career was receiving the Indira Gandhi Priyadarshini Award for Outstanding Women in 1989. This recognition symbolized her exceptional work, accomplishments, and contributions to the field of journalism.
Before embarking on her successful journey as a news anchor at Doordarshan, Aiyar pursued a diploma from the National School of Drama, showcasing her passion for the performing arts. Additionally, she graduated from Loreto College in Kolkata, where she completed her undergraduate studies in English. After her tenure as a news anchor, Aiyar ventured into corporate communications, government liaison, and marketing. Later, she became a consultant at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) while also taking up acting roles in the television serial “Khandaan.”
Following the news of Gitanjali Aiyar’s passing, social media platforms were flooded with tributes from netizens who expressed their grief and offered condolences to the esteemed news anchor from Doordarshan. Even political leaders took to Twitter to share their condolences and reminisce about Aiyar’s influential presence during her time as a news presenter.
Congress leader Netta D’Souza fondly recalled the days when Gitanjali Aiyar graced their TV screens, leaving an unforgettable impression on their news-watching experiences. Saddened by her untimely demise, D’Souza extended heartfelt condolences to Aiyar’s loved ones, wishing her eternal peace.
Prominent journalist Sheela Bhatt, through a tweet, paid tribute to Gitanjali Aiyar, recognizing her as one of India’s finest TV newsreaders. Bhatt described her as a warm and elegant person with immense substance. She conveyed her deepest condolences to Aiyar’s family during this difficult time.