Doordarshan Lucknow hits 50 | Theatre veteran Anil Rastogi wins Lifetime Achievement Award & more

Doordarshan Lucknow, one of the key broadcast centres under Prasar Bharati, marked its 50th Foundation Day on Sunday with a grand celebration. The occasion featured a special program at Lohia Park in Gomti Nagar, showcasing cultural performances and an award ceremony.

Established on November 27, 1975, at 22 Ashok Marg, Doordarshan Studio in Lucknow, has been a pivotal part of the Prasar Bharati Network -- hosting numerous significant shows over the decades. The event was graced by the Chairman of Prasar Bharati, Navneet Sehgal, and Doordarshan's Managing Director, Kanchan Prasad, who joined in commemorating this milestone.

The event featured a vibrant array of live performances, including a musical evening that showcased soulful Sufi and classical renditions. Adding to the cultural fervour, a special Kavi Sammelan event, titled Akhil Bhartiya Kavyamaya Prastuti, brought together eminent Hindi and Urdu poets from across the country to showcase their talent through captivating recitations.

The celebrations also included an award ceremony honouring individuals who contributed significantly to Doordarshan Lucknow's journey. Among the highlights was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Lucknow's theatre stalwart, Anil Rastogi.

A veteran actor, dramatist and former scientist, Rastogi has been a towering figure in Indian theatre, with a career spanning decades. He has also featured prominently in several Doordarshan productions and delivered memorable performances in various Hindi films, cementing his legacy as an artist par excellence.

Doordarshan Lucknow has long been a vital television broadcast centre, showcasing Uttar Pradesh's rich cultural heritage through its diverse programs and event coverage. Over the years, it has nurtured some of the country’s most eminent anchors, actors, and classical singers, solidifying its place as a significant media hub.

Despite facing a steep decline in viewership for DD-1 due to growing competition, the studio is embracing modern broadcast techniques to stay relevant with initiatives such as airing shows on YouTube and other social media platforms. Additionally, Prasar Bharati’s recently launched OTT platform, WAVES, will also feature content from Doordarshan Lucknow, bringing its legacy to a wider digital audience.