Unfazed By Mother’s Death, Gutsy OTV Journalist Puts Duty First

“The show must go on,” were the exact words of an ace OTV journalist when he heard the news of his beloved mother’s death while he was in the middle of a popular talk show he hosts.

Manaranjan Joshi, Senior Journalist with the Odisha Television Limited (OTV) was busy shooting his popular weekly political talk show “Khola Katha” on August 24 (Tuesday) with Congress MLA, Tara Prasad Bahinipati on the “Hot Seat” when a sudden call on his phone drew his attention. And little did he know that the call would make the earth slip from under his feet.

His mother was no more. His face dropped with despair and he was at loss for words. When inquired by Bahinipati, who could see tears welling up in Joshi’s eyes, the journo said in a muttered voice, “I lost the biggest support in life, my mother.”

Hearing the devastating news, Bahinipati offered to reschedule the shoot for another day. To this, Joshi said, “The show must go on,” and continued shooting for the show.

Amazed by Joshi’s professionalism, Bahinipati said, “You seem to have a will of steel. Your mother passed away and you still continued with your show! You did not let emotions take the better of you when on duty!”

“I pray to Lord Jagannath that her soul may rest in peace, and may the Lord give you and your family the courage to stay strong,” Bahinipati said offering his condolences.

Speaking about his reaction upon hearing the terrible news in the middle of the show, Joshi said, “I closed my eyes and remembered her (mother’s) words about always putting duty first over everything. I mustered courage and directed to continue the shoot.”

“This show is a fitting tribute to my mother,” Joshi added.

After the news spread on various social media platforms, applauds poured in for the bereaved and brave journalist who refused to falter on the line of duty. While some heaped praise on Joshi, some others even drew comparison with the Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar who scored a Century just a day after his father’s death in the middle of a tournament.