Maharshi Narada, revered as the pioneer of Indian journalism, embodies the ideal traits that every journalist should aspire to—truthfulness, clarity, and the ability to communicate for the greater good. This was the central message expressed by speakers at the Narada Jayanti celebrations held on Saturday under the auspices of Samachara Bharati Cultural Association at Veer Savarkar Hall, YMIS Building, Koti, Bhagyanagar (Hyderabad).
Highlighting the value-based legacy of Narada, speakers firmly rejected the widespread perception that Narada delighted in sowing discord. “This is a mischaracterisation. Narada’s interventions were always rooted in a higher purpose—awakening society through truthful and constructive communication,” said the dignitaries.
As part of the celebrations, several eminent figures in the media fraternity—journalists, columnists, and media professionals—were felicitated for their outstanding contributions. Koride Mahesh, Gandla Sampath, senior columnist Dr Bhaskarayogi, Dr Kaluvai Anita (Professor, Journalism Department, Osmania University), and senior videographer Karnatapu Raghavendra were honoured with Distinguished Service Awards on behalf of Samachara Bharati.
The event was presided over by Profesor Gopal Reddy, President of Samachara Bharati. Distinguished guests included Chamarthi Umamaheswara Rao (retired IAS officer and President of Vidya Bharati, South Central region) and C.H.V. Sai Prasad (retired IAAS officer), both of whom delivered compelling addresses on the current challenges and responsibilities faced by the media.
In his presidential address, Prof. Gopal Reddy noted that Samachara Bharati has focused extensively on the media sector for over three decades, viewing it as a critical tool for fostering national pride, social harmony, and unity. “Through Narada Jayanti, we celebrate and recognise journalists who practise value-based journalism and uphold national interest,” he said. He also remarked on the visible resurgence of Indian cultural values in education over the past eleven years, largely catalysed by the National Education Policy.
Chamarthi Umamaheswara Rao, addressing concerns over misinformation, called upon journalists to act as guardians of truth in an age dominated by fake news. “When false narratives harm the nation’s interest, it is imperative for institutions like Samachara Bharati to develop effective counter-narratives. Media professionals must be equipped to discern and challenge such distortions,” he urged, cautioning that digital media is exposing children to dangerous ideologies that must be countered through Indian knowledge systems.
Echoing this sentiment, C.H.V. Sai Prasad described Narada as a divine communicator who carried messages across all realms with integrity and compassion. “He was the original messenger—imparting only that which was truthful and beneficial. Journalists must adopt this spirit and aspire to elevate public discourse,” he said. While acknowledging the risks posed by artificial intelligence, he added, “We cannot reject technology outright—but we must absorb what is good and useful.”
The event also saw the participation of N. Ayush, General Secretary of Samachara Bharati; Katta Rajagopal, social activist; and several senior members of the association. The atmosphere was one of reflection and purpose, with many in attendance affirming the need for Indian journalism to return to its dharmic roots.
Notable attendees included senior journalists’ G Vallishwar, Vedual Narasimham, B.N. Sharma, KrantiDev Mitra, Vishwanathan, Srinivas, Devika, Om Prakash, Mahesh, Kontu Mallesham, and several others who shared their insights and solidarity with the cause of value-based journalism.
Samachara Bharati Cultural Association, founded in 1998, aims to construct a truthful and inspiring national narrative, train value-driven youth, and counter propaganda that distorts India’s civilisational ethos. It works across multiple societal domains to shape public opinion through informed, positive engagement.
