Fond memories of Doordarshan

In 80's and early 90's, Doordarshan was the only source of entertainment and probably that's why, it holds a special place in our hearts. I remember, some very popular short films used to come on Doordarshan that also carried social messages. The quality of these films was so good that they still linger in my brain after so many years.

Here are some of my favourite ones...

  • Ek chidiya anek chidiya (एक चिड़िया अनेक चिड़िया)

    This short animated film was produced to spread the message of unity in diversity among children. The film conveyed the message in such a glorious simplicity that children just loved it. Its been 40 years since it was made, but the tune is still catchy, crisp and fresh. The film has the distinction of being the most viewed and downloaded video in the history of Indian short films.

    Trivia : This seven-minute film was scripted and directed by the documentary filmmaker Vijaya Mulay and produced by Bhim Sain, an animator. Find details here

  • School Chalen Hum (स्कूल चलें हम)

    This short film was produced to give the message of 'education for all children'. The film catches the moment when children all across India, from Kashmir to Kerala, wake up in the morning and run to go to school. Excellent video and terrific song. No other video captured entire India's beauty in 4 minutes like this one. Even today the film inspires children across the country to run to school every day and soak themselves in knowledge.

    Trivia : This film was made by BharatBala Productions. The music was given by Shankar/Ehsaan/Loy and lyrics were of Mehboob.

  • Mile sur mera tumhara (मिले सुर मेरा तुम्हारा)

    This video highlights the different linguistic communities and societies that live in India and gives the message of national integration and unity. The film depicts, very beautifully, the wonderful, vibrant, and diverse collage - that is India. It featured some prominent figures like Lata Mangeshkar, Sharmila Tagore, Shabana Azmi etc.

    Trivia : This film was telecast for the first time on Independence Day 1988, after the telecast of the Prime Minister’s speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort. Louis Banks and Ashok Patki composed the music. Find details here

  • Light of freedom

    A classic video clipping which used to be regularly aired on doordarshan featuring some of the most prominent sports stars of their times. It promoted the message 'spread the light of freedom'.

    Trivia : Sportsmen in order: K Srikkanth(Cricket), PK Bannerjee (Football Player), C Goswami (Football Player), Shiny Wilson (Racer), PT Usha (Racer), Ramanathan Krishnan (Tennis), Ramesh Krishnan (Tennis), MAK Pataudi (Cricket), Soha Ali Khan Pataudi (Daughter), Kapil Dev (Cricket), Milkha Singh (Athlete), Jarnail Singh (Football), Rubie Massey (Goan Gymnast), M Ferriera (Snooker/Billiards),Balwinder Singh Sandhu (Cricket), Sunil Gavaskar (Cricket), S Venkataraghavan (Cricket) and Prakash Padukone (Badminton)

Category: entertainment-films-clips