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Metromail

The article “An enduring presence on air” (MetroPlus,June 11) was like a flashback to me. As a news presenter associated with Chennai Doordarshan for over two decades, I felt I was sitting in the chair just as Kannathaal was seated on the floor (see picture in the article) while the cameramen worked on the telecast.

The description of the panel room, news room and make-up room was so realistic that it was like capturing a live presentation. I always say that a live presentation is like driving a scooter — one hand is on the clutch, the other on the front brake and one leg, on the brake. One also has to keep glancing at the rear view mirror while paying attention to the road ahead. As a news presenter too, one hand has to move the prompter, one hand the paper, while the eyes are focussed on the news which you read from the prompter, and simultaneously on the monitor that displays the visuals. One also has to follow the instructions being given by the cameramen.

Doordarshan also telecasts diverse programmes from issue-based to entertainment. .As the writer has mentioned, it gives priority to value-based programmes over those with commercial value. The writer is 100 per cent correct when he says that no other channel offers the same opportunities for mediapersons like Doordarshan does. My stint with DD was the best part of my career and I owe my popularity to it. Earlier, I was just Varadharajen, but thanks to Doordarshan, I became popularly known as ‘TV’ Varadharajen.

‘TV’ Varadharajen,

Indira Nagar, Adyar

“The grand gestures” (MetroPlus, May 21) makes me admire those celebrities who have shown their gratitude to strangers who have helped them in unique ways. I too wish to acknowledge the help extended to my autistic son who is now 16 years old. These special children are only less fortunate but they are not less gifted. Enjoying Nature is a joy that most of them are denied. Marginalisation is a bane, be it is in school, play spaces or in public. I owe my gratitude to the special instructors at his school for all the love and affection they shower on him. I also appreciate the media which publishes articles on autism every now and then. It helps creates public awareness about the problem.

Priya Kishore,

Mandaveli

“Celebrating Chennai” (MetroPlus, June 4), was a wonderful article. Indeed, many of us were fortunate to listen to some brilliant music (carnatic and jazz) and some great fusion too. Young violinist Athira stole hearts with her music and maestro Frank Dubier cast his magic spell as usual.

Shivani Bail

Chennai

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