From Doordarshan to Akashvani: The Untold Journey of Shri Ajit Chaturvedi – A Story of Values & Destiny in Samvaad Connect
In a world rapidly shifting towards instant entertainment, viral content, and fast-paced digital media, there was once a time when Doordarshan and Akashvani weren’t just channels — they were emotions. They were the trusted voices inside every Indian home, the sacred presence that families gathered around. Ramayan wasn’t just a telecast — it was a divine moment people felt, as if Shri Ram himself had appeared on the screen.
Samvaad Connect had the honour of sitting down with Shri Ajit Chaturvedi, one of the senior-most officers of the Indian Broadcasting Service, a man who has served both Doordarshan and All India Radio and today leads Akashvani with pride.
This blog brings you his deeply inspiring life journey — one that speaks of discipline, destiny, values, and the quiet power of walking the right path.
A Life Shaped by Values, Not Circumstances
Shri Chaturvedi began not as a media professional, but as a science student destined — as per his parents — to become a doctor. In an era where parents shaped their children’s futures, he followed the path laid out for him with sincerity. When medical entrances didn’t unfold as expected, he completed an M.Sc. and a PhD in Chemistry.
Life could have stayed in a science lab forever, but destiny had different plans. With honesty, introspection, and humility, he recalls:
“What we study is often not what life gives us. And what life gives, we must learn to embrace with integrity.”
When Destiny Nudges You Gently, and Then Strongly
Shri Chaturvedi cleared multiple government selections — Forensic Scientist, Drug Inspector — yet his parents guided him towards a path aligned with ethics and inner peace. Eventually, a fortunate moment led him to the Indian Broadcasting Service.
The Beginning Wasn’t Easy, But It Was Transformative
Coming from a science-heavy background, entering a literary, cultural environment wasn’t smooth. He smiled and admitted:
“People laughed at my pronunciation, Not out of insult, but because I came from a different world.”
But instead of walking away, he chose self-improvement. He immersed himself in literature, music, language, and the very foundations of Indian cultural identity. And his biggest realisation came from a Sanskrit verse:
“One who lacks art, literature and music lives like an animal without tail or horns.”
Today, he is celebrated as one of the finest program heads and mentors within the broadcasting system.
Why Doordarshan & Akashvani Still Matter Today
In a world full of #noise, #sensationalism, and #misleading narratives, he believes these institutions still carry a sacred responsibility:
“We never propagate, exaggerate, or divide.
We only broadcast what is true, authentic and ethical for society.”
He spoke about the decline of trust in modern channels and how Doordarshan and Akashvani remain the custodians of India’s cultural heritage. When you see that iconic DD logo, you don’t question its credibility. Because truth needs no defence.
His Message to Today’s Youth:
1. Failure is not the end; sometimes it is destiny’s redirection.
2. Never reject opportunities, only because they look small.
3. Respect your parents; sincerely, deeply, consistently.
4. Spiritual grounding matters.
Why This Story Matters to Samvaad Connect
At Samvaad Connect, we stand for meaningful conversations, mental well-being, awareness, and the celebration of human journeys. Shri Chaturvedi’s narrative is a powerful reminder of:
- listening to life’s cues
- embracing unusual paths
- honouring values
- and staying grounded, no matter how high you rise
His journey is a masterclass in patience, humility and purpose — something every young person today deserves to hear.
Full Podcast Video- Shri Ajit Chaturvedi on YouTube
Write to us at samvaadconnect@gmail.com for suggestions.
Saumya D Tewari
