If we were asked to name some
prominent news anchor who presented to us with “News @ 9” there are quite few
names that would come in our mind and Mr. Rajdeep Sardesai (Currently: Consulting Editor, India Today Group) obviously would
be one amongst them.
Be it covering the breaking news that
covers an attack to the nation or having strong political debate in the
newsroom or speaking to an IIT Topper one must admire the passion and pride
with Mr. Rajdeep Sardesai has been doing it brimming with confidence. What I
have appreciated in this individual is not only the way he would present us
with the news but also create an equal interest over the subject in the minds
and hearts of the viewers. One of his biggest strengths I would say is intonation
- the rise and fall in the pitch of his voice and his ability to probe
questions and then later getting into the heart of the story.
Today, Mr. Rajdeep Sardesai is not
only India’s Top Journalists but also an author of his recently released book
titled, “2014 - The Election That Changed
India”. In the recent past I had the opportunity to meet this prolific news
anchor over freewheeling chat.
For this week I would like to share short piece on Mr.
Rajdeep Sardesai a well-known name in Indian electronic media.
Early
Aspirations
They say, “Life is what happens to you
while you are busy making other plans”. While young Rajdeep was very much found
of playing cricket. His father Late Dilip Sardesai was a prominent Indian Test
Cricketer in the 1960’s. His Mother Nandini Sardesai worked as a Professor of Sociology
at St. Xavier's College in Mumbai.
Rajdeep always loved playing cricket
and represented while playing at University level. It’s here he had close
interaction with well-known right handed middle order batsman Mr. Sanjay
Manjrekar. While Mr. Manjrekar went ahead in life with International Cricket
whereas Rajdeep created his own identity in the field of Journalism.
Education
/ Career
Before getting into journalism Rajdeep
aspired to become a lawyer. He
first completed his Bachelor's Degree Course in Economics from St. Xavier's
College. Post which he went to England to study in Oxford University and
acquired the following degrees namely Master of Arts (M.A.) and Bachelor of
Laws (L.L.B.).
On his return from England in the year
1988 he decided to start his career as a lawyer by practicing law in India. But
destiny had its own plans for Rajdeep. It was around the same time while
Rajdeep was contemplating “Lawyer” as his profession he had the opportunity to
meet the eminent journalist and the current editor then of “The Times of India”
(TOI) Mr. Dileep Padgaonkar.
Rajdeep, being a compulsive reader and
writer the thought of joining TOI appealed to him. Initially he started writing
for TOI and later worked there for brief period of six years and was the city
editor of its Mumbai Edition.
I was fortunate to enter into the
field of journalism at a time when there were many events and happenings taking
place within our country. Had there not been any major upheavals taking place
in the country however any journalist may aspire to write the fact remains what
is that topic the journalist would choose and amplify their thoughts that shall
appeal to the voice of the readers. Rajdeep admits destiny was kind enough
which allowed him come into the field of journalism at an opportune time which
gave him immense opportunities to amplify on his strengths and competencies.
Parents
Influence
Rajdeep’s, parents especially his
Mother who was Professor was cognizant that their son was always a good student
who loved to take part in debates and dramas. He had a flair for General Knowledge
and always searched for answers beyond what the textbooks could offer and that
too at a very young age. One thing evident was his thirst for knowledge was
always growing as he was keen to know more about the world and surroundings.
What would be the future of his chosen
craft namely “Television Journalism” was something even his parents were not
much aware about. All they could do at that point of time was to believe in his
strengths and motivate him on his voyage of discovery.
Rajdeep Sardesai is a successful name today
but there were risks he took and dare to achieve it. The point of time when he
decided to leave NDTV and start his own venture “CNN IBN” his parents were apprehensive
as he was already doing well in his career path. However, as Rajdeep wanted to
follow his dreams his parents allowed him to take the risk and go that extra
mile.
Rajdeep has also been the President of
the Editors Guild of India the only Television Journalist to hold the post and
was also chosen as a Global leader for tomorrow by the World Economic Forum in
2000.
Commitment
towards Craft
Rajdeep Sardesai's commitment towards
his chosen craft is commendable. He is workaholic and works round-the-clock to
achieve prominence and excellence. Reading relates to his mind as much as
exercise relates to his body. Never complacent despite his near stardom status.
He firmly believes when there is work it must be completed and there are times when
Rajdeep doesn't take his weekly offs.
He believes in precision to details
and in his farewell letter written to IBN 18 staff he says, "Am sorry if I would occasionally call
at 3 am in the morning. Blame it on being a news junkie. And remember, every
time there is a spelling mistake on the ticker, my ghost will haunt you”.
I would love to sum up my piece in his
words, “I guess certain things in life
are written in the stars. Editorial independence and Integrity have been
articles of faith in 26 years in journalism and maybe I am too old now to
change!
For all the book lover’s reading the
first book “2014 - The Election That
Changed India” from one of the country’s most recognized and respected
journalists Mr. Rajdeep Sardesai would be indeed enlightening.
Happy Reading!!!
More in the “New Year”. More in the morrow
. . .
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