Veteran Urdu Newsreader Salim Akhtar Passes Away at 76

New Delhi, June 13 – Salim Akhtar, the distinguished Urdu newsreader of Akashvani (All India Radio), passed away today in New Delhi after a brief illness. He was 76 years old. With his demise, the world of Indian radio broadcasting has lost one of its most recognizable and respected voices.

An Illustrious Career Spanning Over Two Decades

Salim Akhtar was associated with the Urdu unit of the News Services Division of Akashvani for nearly 25 years. Throughout his career, he was widely regarded for his clear diction, command over the Urdu language, and a deep, resonant voice that lent both credibility and elegance to the news bulletins he presented.

His voice became a familiar presence in countless households, especially among Urdu-speaking audiences across India. Generations of listeners grew up hearing Akhtar deliver national and international news with precision, calm, and a signature grace that left an indelible mark on the airwaves.

A Trusted Voice in Times of Change

During his tenure, Salim Akhtar reported on some of the most pivotal events in India’s contemporary history, from elections and economic reforms to natural disasters and major international developments. His ability to deliver news with objectivity, poise, and linguistic beauty earned him the trust of listeners and the respect of his peers.

He was not only a newsreader but also a cultural figure, who played a vital role in keeping Urdu broadcasting relevant and vibrant in the modern era. His readings often carried a lyrical quality, reflecting his deep appreciation for the richness of the Urdu language.

Tributes Pour In From Across the Media Fraternity

As news of his passing spread, colleagues, journalists, and admirers took to various platforms to pay tribute to the veteran broadcaster. Many remembered him as a humble professional, dedicated to his craft and always willing to mentor younger colleagues.

Former associates from All India Radio recalled how Akhtar’s presence in the studio would elevate the environment, and how his readings often set the benchmark for Urdu news delivery in India.

A Personal Loss for Urdu Journalism

Beyond his professional legacy, Salim Akhtar is remembered as a gentle soul, a man of refined manners, and someone who was deeply committed to the promotion and preservation of the Urdu language in the realm of journalism.

His passing marks not just the loss of a former newsreader but also the end of an era in Urdu broadcasting, where the spoken word held a unique poetic and persuasive power.