Doordarshan, India’s public broadcasting service, commenced its journey as an experimental endeavour on September 15, 1959, operating under the auspices of Prasar Bharati. Originally a branch of All India Radio, it evolved into an independent entity as television gained prominence. By 1975, Doordarshan had undergone substantial growth, extending its reach to various regions of India and captivating audiences nationwide with its diverse programming. Over the years, it has remained a cornerstone of Indian media, playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s cultural landscape and fostering a sense of national unity through its broadcasts.
This popular channel unveiled its new logo on a social media post and stated that while its values remained the same, it is now available in a new avatar.
While our values remain the same, we are now available in a new avatar. Get ready for a news journey like never before.. Experience the all-new DD News!
We have the courage to put:
Accuracy over speed
Facts over claims
Truth over sensationalismBecause if it is on DD News, it… pic.twitter.com/YH230pGBKs
— DD News (@DDNewslive) April 16, 2024
Story Of Its Previous Logo
In the early 1970s, this Doordarshan logo was crafted by Devashis Bhattacharyya, a student from the National Institute of Design (NID), and it caught the eye of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Selected amidst various entries, this logo showcased an abstract interpretation of the ‘yin and yang,’ complemented by the motto “Satyam Shivam Sundaram,” echoing the broadcaster’s commitment to offering content that embodied truth, divinity, and beauty. Its selection represented a fusion of conventional and contemporary artistic principles, symbolizing the broadcaster’s ethos.
Despite its lasting impact, the Doordarshan logo has evolved over time to remain pertinent in changing landscapes. Particularly during the late 1980s and 1990s, modifications were made to incorporate new channels such as DD Sports and DD News. Each iteration preserved the essence of the original design while adjusting to contemporary demands.
While the Doordarshan logo remains iconic, there’s an emerging consensus that it requires an update to resonate with younger viewers and mirror the evolving face of modern India. The prospect of redesigning the logo has sparked extensive discussion, underscoring the profound emotional attachment and historical importance linked to the original one. This sentiment is shared even by prominent figures such as Ayushmann Khurrana, who has voiced support for maintaining the nostalgic charm of the existing logo.
Please don’t change the Doordarshan logo. It represents my childhood.
— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) July 25, 2017
‘Safforanisation’ Of Doordarshan
The adoption of a saffron-themed logo in a recent update reflects a larger strategy to modernize the brand’s image, while establishing stronger connections with present and future audiences together with upholding its fundamental identity as a broadcaster serving all Indians.
This degradation has sparked criticism from numerous social media users, who interpreted it as a move towards “saffronisation” of the state-operated broadcaster. Saffron is commonly associated with Hindutva, an ideology championed by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its parent organization, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Former Chief Executive Officer of Prasar Bharati, Jawhar Sircar, expressed concern over what he perceived as the alarming trend of Doordarshan’s saffronisation. He remarked, “It’s no longer Prasar Bharati, it’s Prachar Bharti.”
National broadcaster Doordarshan colours its historic flagship logo in saffron!
As its ex-CEO, I have been watching its saffronisation with alarm and feel —
it’s not Prasar Bharati any more
— it’s Prachar Bharati! https://t.co/a2r6zBLc3C— Jawhar Sircar (@jawharsircar) April 18, 2024
Supporters’ Point
While this logo unveiling is receiving backlash from netizens, the supporters feel that this move is a blend of traditional motives with innovation. According to this, the new logo is preserving its deep-rooted heritage while adapting to the evolving needs of a dynamic media environment. The fresh logo embodies this equilibrium, symbolizing a fusion of timeless principles and contemporary design. It extends an invitation to all to join in this evolution, guaranteeing that Doordarshan continues to hold significance and affection in the hearts of people across India.
Also Read: UPSE Civil Services’23 Results are Declared, Aditya Srivastava Secures the Top Rank
