Kuldip Nayar, a stalwart of Indian journalism, left an indelible mark on the media landscape, standing tall amongst the last generation of journalists who began their careers post the sub-continent’s partition. From his editorial tenure at the Indian Express to his widely-syndicated columns published in 14 languages across 80 papers, Nayar courageously championed press freedom and upheld India’s secular tradition.

Courage in Adversity

In the 1970s, Nayar’s unwavering courage shone through when he was incarcerated for opposing the state of emergency declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. His fearless stance made him a hero among those who valued free speech.

A Voice of Conscience

In more recent times, Nayar faced criticism for his opposition to the policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. He was labeled a traitor, accused of being ‘sickular’, and branded anti-national. Just before his passing, he emphasized the need for good governance over the imposition of Hindutva policies.

A Life Shaped by Diversity

Born in Sialkot, now in Pakistan, to Puran Devi and Gurbaksh Singh, a doctor who blended the teachings of Sikhism and Hinduism, Nayar’s early years were marked by the partition’s violence. After migrating to India, he settled in Delhi. His journey began in 1948 at the Urdu newspaper, Anjam, followed by a stint at the United States Information Services and later, the Indian Information Service.

A Prolific Career

Nayar’s association with leaders like Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister, provided invaluable political insights. Joining UNI, India’s second news agency, marked the start of his illustrious career as a freelance journalist. Syndicating his column, “Between the Lines,” throughout South Asia became a significant source of recognition and income.

A Vision for Peace

Nayar’s enduring aspiration was to foster peaceful relations between India and Pakistan. He engaged in backchannel negotiations, maintained connections with influential Pakistanis, and initiated candlelit border vigils.

A Legacy Remembered

Kuldip Nayar passed away on August 23, 2018, at the age of 95, after a brief illness. His funeral, held on August 24, 2018, at Lodhi Crematorium, paid tribute to his remarkable life. In accordance with his final wishes, his ashes were immersed in the Ravi River, which flows from India into Pakistan, symbolizing his unwavering dedication to cross-border harmony.

Conclusion

Kuldip Nayar’s legacy endures, reminding us of the power of journalistic integrity and unwavering commitment to a better, more harmonious world. His contributions to Indian journalism and his tireless pursuit of peace continue to inspire generations of journalists and citizens alike.