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Hindi Journalism Day: 30th May
Hindi Journalism Day: 30th May
Hindi Journalism Day is observed every year on 30th May to commemorate the birth of Hindi-language journalism in India. It marks the publication of ‘Udant Martand’, the first Hindi newspaper, which was launched on May 30, 1826, in Calcutta (now Kolkata) by Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla.In today's digital age, the essence of Udant Martand lives on in Hindi news websites, social media reporting, and YouTube journalism.
As India becomes more digitized, Hindi journalism is not just surviving—it’s thriving, expanding its reach to millions. Hindi Journalism Day on May 30 is not just a celebration of a historical event—it is a reminder of the enduring power of language, truth, and public discourse. From Udant Martand in 1826 to today’s digital platforms, the journey of Hindi journalism reflects India’s democratic and cultural evolution.
It urges the current generation to uphold the values of fearless reporting and to continue the legacy of empowering the masses through accessible and impactful journalism.
Historical Background
‘Udant Martand’, meaning ‘The Rising Sun of News’, was the pioneering effort that brought news and current affairs to the Hindi-speaking population in their own language. At a time when most newspapers were printed in English, Persian, or Bengali, this newspaper was revolutionary.
‘Udant Martand’, meaning ‘The Rising Sun of News’, was the pioneering effort that brought news and current affairs to the Hindi-speaking population in their own language. At a time when most newspapers were printed in English, Persian, or Bengali, this newspaper was revolutionary.
- Founded by: Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla, a lawyer from Kanpur.
- Published from: Kolkata, then the capital of British India.
- Frequency: Weekly (published every Tuesday).
- Lifespan: The newspaper ran for about 1.5 years and was discontinued on December 4, 1827 due to financial constraints and lack of support from Hindi-speaking regions far from Kolkata.
Though short-lived, ‘Udant Martand’ laid the foundation for Hindi journalism in India.
Growth and Importance of Hindi Journalism
Since the publication of Udant Martand, Hindi journalism has seen significant growth and evolution. It played a key role in:
Since the publication of Udant Martand, Hindi journalism has seen significant growth and evolution. It played a key role in:
- The Indian freedom struggle: Many Hindi newspapers voiced dissent against British colonial rule.
- Social reforms: Hindi journalism became a platform for raising awareness on issues like education, women’s rights, and caste discrimination.
- Democratic engagement: It empowered the masses by making information accessible in their native language.
Today, Hindi journalism encompasses a massive network of newspapers, television channels, online portals, and magazines, making it one of the largest media ecosystems in India.
Observing Hindi Journalism Day
On 30th May, media institutions, universities, journalism schools, and press clubs across the country organize:
On 30th May, media institutions, universities, journalism schools, and press clubs across the country organize:
- Seminars and discussions on the evolution and challenges of Hindi journalism.
- Awards and recognitions for journalists who have made significant contributions to the field.
- Tributes and retrospectives on Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla and early pioneers of Indian-language media.
- It’s also a day of reflection on the responsibilities of journalists and the need for ethical, courageous, and people-centric reporting.
Honoring Journalists
Hindi Journalism Day is also a tribute to the courage, integrity, and dedication of journalists—especially those working in regional and rural areas, often under difficult circumstances.
Hindi Journalism Day is also a tribute to the courage, integrity, and dedication of journalists—especially those working in regional and rural areas, often under difficult circumstances.
Journalism is not just a profession; it is a public service. By informing, educating, and holding the powerful accountable, Hindi journalists continue to strengthen India’s democracy.
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