Renowned lyricist, poet, and advertising veteran Prasoon Joshi has been appointed as the Chairman of Prasar Bharati, India's public service broadcaster. The announcement was made by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on May 2, 2026.
Government Announcement
Addressing the media, Minister Vaishnaw described Joshi as a "rare creative spirit" whose contributions span across advertising, literature, art, and cinema. He noted that Joshi's global recognition and deep understanding of Indian culture make him an ideal choice to lead the broadcasting corporation.
Joshi's Background
Prasoon Joshi is a celebrated figure in multiple creative domains. He has written lyrics for numerous Bollywood films, won several awards including the National Film Award for Best Lyrics, and served as the chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). His advertising agency, McCann Worldgroup India, has produced iconic campaigns. Joshi is also a published poet and author.
Reactions and Expectations
The appointment has been welcomed by various quarters. Industry experts believe Joshi's creative vision will bring a fresh perspective to Prasar Bharati, which operates Doordarshan and All India Radio. His experience in content creation and understanding of mass communication are expected to enhance the broadcaster's reach and quality.
Prasar Bharati has been undergoing digital transformation, and Joshi's leadership is anticipated to accelerate this process. He is expected to focus on innovative programming, audience engagement, and leveraging technology to expand the broadcaster's footprint.
Conclusion
With Prasoon Joshi at the helm, Prasar Bharati aims to strengthen its role as a credible and creative public broadcaster. The appointment marks a significant step in blending traditional values with modern media practices.
