Think of WhatsApp Channels as a special way to get updates like a private broadcast. These updates are separate from your regular chats, so they won't clutter your messages. Channels are separate from your chats, and who you choose to follow is not visible to other followers.
source https://zeenews.india.com/technology/whatsapp-channel-feature-launched-in-india-what-is-this-and-how-to-use-it-2662058.html
source https://zeenews.india.com/technology/whatsapp-channel-feature-launched-in-india-what-is-this-and-how-to-use-it-2662058.html