New Delhi: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Saturday appointed noted lyricist, writer and communications expert Prasoon Joshi as the Chairman of Prasar Bharati, India’s statutory public service broadcaster.
Joshi replaces Navneet Kumar Sehgal, a retired 1988-batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, marking a significant leadership change at the helm of the country’s public broadcasting network.
Government Highlights Joshi’s Creative and Communication Expertise
Announcing the appointment, the ministry said Joshi brings extensive experience across literature, advertising, cinema and public communication, making him well-suited to lead Prasar Bharati at a time of rapid transformation in the media landscape.
Congratulating him, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw described Joshi as a “rare creative spirit” whose work resonates across disciplines.
“His words carry the fragrance of our soil, and his vision reflects the timeless essence of our culture. Under his stewardship, Prasar Bharati will discover renewed energy, deeper purpose, and a fresh creative voice,” the minister said, wishing him a meaningful tenure.
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From CBFC Chief to Public Broadcasting Leadership
Before this appointment, Prasoon Joshi served as Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) since August 2017, where he played a key role in strengthening certification processes while maintaining a balance between creative expression and regulatory responsibility.
He has also held prominent leadership roles in the advertising industry, including:
- CEO of McCann Worldgroup India
- Chairman of McCann Worldgroup Asia Pacific
In addition, he has been serving as a trustee of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts since 2016.
A Multifaceted Creative Personality
Widely regarded as one of India’s leading creative voices, Joshi has made significant contributions to cinema, advertising, literature, and public messaging.
As a lyricist, he has penned memorable songs for critically acclaimed films such as:
- Taare Zameen Par
- Rang De Basanti
- Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
His writing is known for its emotional depth and strong cultural connect, often resonating with audiences across generations.
Educational Background and Early Influences
Born on September 16, 1971, in Almora, Uttarakhand, Prasoon Joshi grew up across several towns including Almora, Tehri, Chamoli, and Srinagar due to his father’s career in the state civil services.
Raised in a culturally rich environment—both his parents were trained classical singers—Joshi developed an early inclination toward literature and music.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) and Post-Graduation in Physics
- MBA from the Institute of Management Technology Ghaziabad
He published his first book, Main Aur Woh, at the age of 17.
Distinguished Career Across Advertising and Cinema
Joshi began his professional journey with Ogilvy & Mather in Delhi, eventually rising to become a creative director. He later joined McCann Worldgroup, where he led several iconic campaigns.
Some of his widely recognised advertising works include:
- “Thanda Matlab Coca-Cola”
- “Happydent White” (ranked among the best ads of the 21st century)
In cinema, he made his debut with Lajja (2001) and went on to contribute as a lyricist and screenwriter for multiple award-winning films.
Awards and Global Recognition
- Padma Shri (2015) for contributions to art, literature and advertising
- National Film Awards (Twice) for Best Lyrics
- Recognised as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum (2006)
- Jury member at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity
About Prasar Bharati: India’s Public Broadcasting Backbone
Prasar Bharati was established under the Prasar Bharati Act, 1990, and became operational in 1997 as India’s autonomous public broadcaster.
It comprises:
- All India Radio (AIR)
- Doordarshan (DD)
The organisation plays a crucial role in disseminating information, promoting national integration, and preserving cultural heritage across the country.
In line with evolving digital consumption trends, Prasar Bharati has also launched the Waves OTT platform, offering free-to-air content to audiences.
A New Creative Direction for Public Broadcasting
With his extensive experience in creative industries and public communication, Prasoon Joshi is expected to bring a fresh perspective and innovative approach to public broadcasting.
His appointment comes at a time when Prasar Bharati is navigating rapid technological changes and shifting audience expectations, making his blend of creativity and leadership particularly significant for its future direction.
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