Kolkata: Viswa Sambad Kendra (VSK), Dakshinbanga, celebrated “Narad Jayanti Udjapan & Narad Samman 2026” with great dignity and solemnity at Sisir Mancha, Kolkata, on July 5, Sunday. The event commemorated the birth anniversary of Maharshi Narad, revered as the world’s earliest communicator and journalist. During the event, distinguished media professionals were honoured for their exemplary contribution to journalism and society.
The programme was graced by the Governor of West Bengal, R. N. Ravi, as the Chief Guest. Among the distinguished guests were Dr. Kalyan Chakraborty, Minister, Government of West Bengal, Prafulla Ketkar, Editor of Organiser, nuclear scientist Dr. Jisnu Basu and Biplab Roy, Prant Prachar Pramukh of RSS Dakshinbanga.
“Across the world, the First Amendment is generally introduced to enlarge civil liberties and freedom of speech.
Ironically, the liberal icon of independent India used the first amendment to curtail freedom of speech.”
— Shri Prafulla Ketkar (@prafullaketkar), Editor, Organiser… pic.twitter.com/81hSFjWUo7
— Organiser Weekly (@eOrganiser) July 5, 2026
The programme was anchored by Dr. Debashis Iyer and Tilak Sengupta. The event commenced with the chanting of Narad Stotram by Dr. Rakesh Das, followed by a welcome address from Biplab Roy, who described journalism as a sacred public trust and emphasized the importance of truth, responsibility and service to society.
During the first session, ten young journalists from various media organisations were felicitated with the Narad Samman 2026 in recognition of their dedication, fearless reporting and contribution to responsible journalism. Among those honoured were Swarnali Sarkar, Santu Pan, Shafiqul Islam, Pinak Pani Ghosh, Raktim Das, Prabir Bhattacharya, along with several other accomplished journalists.
The gathering was then addressed by Dr. Jisnu Basu and Dr. Kalyan Chakraborty, who spoke on the indispensable role of the media in nation-building, scientific temper, informed public discourse and responsible journalism.
At around 11:30 AM, the Governor entered the auditorium and was welcomed with the rendition of the National Song followed by the National Anthem. He was formally felicitated by Dr. Shivaji Bhattacharya, President of Viswa Sambad Kendra.
The second session featured the presentation of the Lifetime Contribution Awards to five eminent personalities for their outstanding service to journalism and public life. The recipients were:
- Rathindra Mohan Bandyopadhyay, former journalist with Anandabazar Patrika, Bartaman and the German Consulate, and former faculty member of the University of Calcutta and Jadavpur University.
- Dr. Bijoy Adhya, distinguished researcher, author and former Editor of *Swastika.
- Shri Bhajanlal Gangopadhyay, Special Correspondent of The Statesman, renowned for over twenty-six years of fearless investigative journalism.
- Shri Rabindranath Dutta, eminent educationist and author noted for his research on the Partition of India.
- Shri Ranjit Roy, former President of the Kolkata Press Club and senior journalist associated with The Telegraph, Swastika and Organiser.
In his address, Prafulla Ketkar reminded journalists that the foundation of journalism lies in truth and integrity. Quoting ancient wisdom, he urged media professionals never to compromise truth in the face of temptation or external pressure.
Delivering the keynote address, Governor R N Ravi observed that the responsibility of the media has become even greater in the present era of rapid information and digital communication. Drawing upon his long experience in national security and public administration, he called upon journalists to uphold the ideals of Maharshi Narad by promoting truthful, constructive and responsible journalism that strengthens national unity, social harmony and public trust.
Governor Ravi felicitated eminent journalists for their extraordinary contributions at the Devarshi Narad Jayanti celebrations in Kolkata.
Invoking Devarshi Narada as the embodiment of responsible communication that preserved harmony, upheld dharma, and sustained cosmic order,… pic.twitter.com/RAPATFBs19
— Lok Bhavan, West Bengal (@lokbhavan_wb) July 5, 2026
The programme concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks delivered by Arindam Ray, Director of Viswa Sambad Kendra. Following established protocol, the gathering paid tribute through the rendition of the National Song and National Anthem before the departure of the Governor. The event concluded with a high tea attended by journalists, intellectuals, distinguished guests and invitees, bringing to a close a memorable celebration dedicated to the enduring values of ethical and responsible journalism.
