Pratima Puri


Pratima Puri was Doordarshan’s first news reader. The station went on air in 1959.

Early life

She was born Vidya Rawat to a Gorkha family at Laal Paani in Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh.

Career

Pratima started her media career at the All India Radio station in her hometown.
When All India Radio had its first telecast on September 15, 1959, Pratima was shifted to New Delhi. Her beauty and melodious voice led to her selection as an announcer. Her notable interviews include Yuri Gagarin, and various actors and politicians. After Sultan was chosen to replace her, Pratima Puri started training aspiring anchors in Doordarshan.

Personal life

Pratima Puri died in 2007.