Hindustan Times

Hindustan Times: A Beacon of Indian Journalism

Imagine a newspaper that has been a cornerstone of Indian journalism for over a century, playing a pivotal role in the nation’s struggle for independence. That’s Hindustan Times, an English-language daily based in Delhi and owned by Shobhana Bhartia, with backing from the Birla family. Founded by Sunder Singh Lyallpuri, it has grown into one of India’s largest newspapers, with a circulation of 993,645 copies as of November 2017.

But Hindustan Times is more than just numbers; it’s a story of resilience and transformation. From its humble beginnings in Naya Bazar, Delhi, to becoming a multimedia powerhouse encompassing sister publications, radio channels, an education company, and annual conferences, the journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

How did this newspaper manage to stay relevant for so long?

The Founding Father: Sunder Singh Lyallpuri

Sunder Singh Lyallpuri was not just a founder; he was a visionary. His decision to launch Hindustan Times in 1924, with the opening ceremony performed by none other than Mahatma Gandhi himself, set the tone for its future as a nationalist newspaper. The first issue, published on September 26, 1924, featured writings from C.F. Andrews and Cattamanchi Ramalinga Reddy, reflecting the paper’s commitment to nationalistic ideals.

Can you imagine the excitement and anticipation that must have surrounded this historic launch?

The Challenges and Triumphs

K.M. Panikkar launched Hindustan Times with high hopes but faced financial struggles. It was Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya who stepped in to save the paper when funds from the Akali movement dried up, ensuring its survival. The newspaper has had its share of challenges, including a controversial case at the Allahabad High Court for contempt.

How does one navigate such turbulent waters and still emerge as a leading voice?

The Editorial Legacy

The editorial legacy of Hindustan Times is rich with notable figures. Devdas Gandhi, son of Mahatma Gandhi, was inducted into the editors’ panel and later appointed editor. Other key editors include Sri Mulgaonkar, B.G. Verghese, and Khushwant Singh. Each brought their unique perspective to the paper, shaping its editorial stance over the years.

Who do you think had the biggest impact on Hindustan Times’ editorial direction?

The Current Landscape

Today, ownership is managed by Shobhana Bhartia, daughter of Krishna Kumar Birla. HT Media Limited, a subsidiary of The Hindustan Times Limited, which in turn is a subsidiary of Earthstone Holding (Two) Limited, manages the operations. The KK Birla Group holds a 69 percent stake in HT Media, valued at ₹834 crore.

How does this ownership structure influence the newspaper’s editorial independence and future direction?

The Reputation and Controversies

Hindustan Times has received recognition for its trustworthiness, ranking 2971st among India’s most trusted brands in 2012, 434th in 2013, and 360th in 2014. However, the newspaper has also faced scrutiny over issues such as its Hate Tracker database, which records hate crimes in India. The abrupt departure of editor-in-chief Ghosh after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s wife Shobhana Bhartia sparked controversy, though General Counsel Dinesh Mittal denied it was due to the meeting.

How do these controversies impact Hindustan Times’ credibility and public perception?

The Future of Hindustan Times

Hindustan Times continues to evolve, adapting to the digital age while maintaining its traditional print presence. With a rich history and a strong editorial team, it remains a significant player in Indian journalism.

What role will Hindustan Times play in shaping India’s future?

In conclusion, Hindustan Times stands as a testament to the enduring power of journalism in shaping public opinion and contributing to societal discourse. Its journey from a nationalist daily to a multimedia powerhouse is a story of resilience, innovation, and commitment to truth. As it continues to navigate the challenges of the digital age, Hindustan Times remains an essential voice in India’s media landscape.