UNIT - 4 (UPDATED)

SYLLABUS 

 Unit-4. Famous News Papers and Magazines- Aj, Udant Martanda, Hindusthan, Sarswati, Pratap, Hans. Famous Journalist- Babu Rao Vishnu Paradkar, Makhan lal Chaturvedi, Bhartendu Harishchandra, Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi, Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya, Mahatma Gandhi.

Famous News Papers and Magazines- Aj, Udant Martanda, Hindusthan, Sarswati, Pratap, Hans:

Early Indian journalism, particularly in the Hindi belt, was deeply intertwined with the **Development Communication Theory**, where media was seen as an instrument for social change, national development, and political awakening. Publications often acted as **gatekeepers** of information, carefully selecting and framing content to promote specific ideologies, foster nationalistic sentiment, and challenge colonial rule. The concept of **public sphere** was significantly expanded by these publications, providing platforms for debate and discussion on vital social and political issues. Furthermore, they were instrumental in the **standardization and popularization of language**, particularly Hindi, contributing significantly to its growth as a literary and journalistic medium. As articulated by scholars like Ambika Prasad Vajpayee and Krishna Bihari Mishra, these papers were not mere news providers but ideological torchbearers, shaping public opinion and mobilizing masses.

### Famous Newspapers and Magazines

#### 1. Udant Martanda (उदन्त मार्तण्ड)

*   **Founding and Significance:** *Udant Martanda*, meaning "The Rising Sun," holds the distinction of being the first Hindi newspaper. It was launched on May 30, 1826, from Calcutta (now Kolkata) by **Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla**. This date is now celebrated as 'Hindi Journalism Day'. The establishment of *Udant Martanda* marked a monumental step for Hindi journalism, establishing a formal platform for news and opinion in the language.

*   **Objectives and Content:** Published weekly, its primary aim was to cater to the Hindi-speaking population, which felt underserved by the existing English and Bengali presses. It sought to address social issues, provide news, and foster a sense of community among Hindi speakers. The language used was a mix of Khari Boli and Braj Bhasha, reflecting the nascent stage of standardized Hindi journalism.

*   **Challenges and Legacy:** Despite its pioneering spirit, *Udant Martanda* faced significant financial difficulties due to limited readership and high postal rates, leading to its closure in December 1827. However, its brief existence laid the groundwork for future Hindi publications, demonstrating the viability and necessity of a Hindi press. J. Natarajan's "History of Indian Journalism" would likely highlight its symbolic importance as the genesis of Hindi news reporting.

#### 2. Aaj (आज)

*   **Founding and Significance:** *Aaj*, meaning "Today," is one of the most historically significant and enduring Hindi daily newspapers. It was founded by **Shivprasad Gupta** and launched from Varanasi on **September 5, 1920**. Its founding editor was Babu Rao Vishnu Paradkar, a towering figure in Hindi journalism. *Aaj* quickly distinguished itself as a nationalist newspaper, strongly advocating for India's independence.

*   **Objectives and Content:** *Aaj*'s mission was deeply rooted in nationalist ideals. It provided extensive coverage of the freedom struggle, published articles by prominent nationalist leaders, and critically examined British policies. It played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion against colonial rule and fostering national unity. The newspaper's editorial stance was unequivocally pro-independence, making it a powerful voice in the nationalist movement. Its commitment to factual reporting combined with a nationalist agenda resonates with the concept of **advocacy journalism**.

*   **Impact and Legacy:** *Aaj* became an influential daily, especially in Uttar Pradesh, shaping political discourse and public awareness. It faced censorship and repression from the British government but continued to operate, becoming a symbol of journalistic resistance. Its legacy lies in its sustained commitment to nationalist journalism and its significant contribution to modern Hindi prose.

#### 3. Hindustan (हिन्दुस्तान)

*   **Founding and Significance:** The name 'Hindustan' has been associated with various publications. Historically, **Madan Mohan Malaviya** started a Hindi daily called *Hindustan* in **1887** from Kalakankar, Pratapgarh district. This early *Hindustan* was notable for its advanced printing technology for its time and its commitment to public service journalism. This is distinct from the modern *Hindustan Times* (an English daily) and its Hindi counterpart *Hindustan* (owned by HT Media). The reference in the prompt likely points to Malaviya's endeavor, which played a crucial role in early Hindi journalism.

*   **Objectives and Content:** Malaviya's *Hindustan* aimed to educate the masses, promote social reforms, and articulate Indian political aspirations. It covered a range of topics from political developments to social issues, attempting to bridge the gap between the intelligentsia and the common people. Its content often reflected a balanced approach, advocating for reform while also critiquing colonial policies.

*   **Impact and Legacy:** The newspaper, under Malaviya's guidance, contributed significantly to the intellectual and political awakening of the era. It exemplified how a newspaper could be a tool for both information dissemination and national character building. The early *Hindustan* laid foundational elements for responsible and nationalist Hindi journalism.

#### 4. Saraswati (सरस्वती)

*   **Founding and Significance:** *Saraswati* was a landmark Hindi literary magazine, launched in **1900** from Allahabad (now Prayagraj) by Chintamani Ghosh and the Indian Press. Its golden era began with the appointment of **Mahavir Prasad Dwivedi** as its editor in **1903**, a position he held until 1920. Dwivedi's editorship transformed *Saraswati* into a powerful force for Hindi language and literature.

*   **Objectives and Content:** The primary objective of *Saraswati* was the **standardization, refinement, and promotion of Khari Boli Hindi** as a literary language. It published high-quality prose and poetry, essays on science, philosophy, history, and social issues. Dwivedi rigorously edited submissions, ensuring grammatical correctness, clarity, and a uniform style, effectively shaping modern Hindi prose. This active role in language development aligns with the **Agenda-Setting Theory**, where the magazine, through its editorial policies, set the agenda for what constituted good Hindi literature and grammar.

*   **Impact and Legacy:** *Saraswati*'s impact on Hindi literature is immeasurable. It provided a platform for numerous budding writers, fostered literary criticism, and established norms for Hindi grammar and syntax. The 'Dwivedi Yug' (Dwivedi Era) in Hindi literature is named after him, underscoring the magazine's pivotal role in the language's development. It exemplifies how a publication can be a powerful instrument of linguistic and cultural development.

#### 5. Pratap (प्रताप)

*   **Founding and Significance:** *Pratap* was an influential Hindi nationalist weekly newspaper started by **Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi** on **November 9, 1913**, from Kanpur. Vidyarthi, a fearless journalist and freedom fighter, made *Pratap* a voice for the oppressed and a fierce critic of British rule.

*   **Objectives and Content:** *Pratap*'s central objective was to ignite nationalist fervor and advocate for social justice. It reported extensively on atrocities committed by the British, championed the cause of peasants and laborers, and supported revolutionary movements. Vidyarthi used *Pratap* to highlight issues of communal harmony, workers' rights, and the overall struggle for Swaraj. Its content was often fiery and direct, leading to frequent clashes with the colonial administration and numerous prosecutions against Vidyarthi. This bold stance positions *Pratap* as a classic example of **radical journalism**.

*   **Impact and Legacy:** *Pratap* became a training ground for many future journalists and freedom fighters. Its unflinching advocacy for truth and justice, even in the face of severe repression, inspired a generation. Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi's ultimate sacrifice for communal harmony in 1931 further cemented *Pratap*'s legacy as a symbol of courageous and principled journalism. The influence of *Pratap* on Mahatma Gandhi and other national leaders is well-documented, as they often cited its reports and perspectives.

#### 6. Hans (हंस)

*   **Founding and Significance:** *Hans* (meaning "Swan") is a prominent Hindi literary magazine primarily associated with the legendary writer **Munshi Premchand**. It was first launched in **1930** by Premchand himself. After a period of dormancy and various changes in ownership, it was relaunched in **1986** by the acclaimed writer **Rajendra Yadav**.

*   **Objectives and Content (Premchand's Era):** Premchand founded *Hans* with the vision of promoting progressive and realistic literature, particularly short stories and essays that reflected the social realities of his time. He aimed to provide a platform for new writers and explore themes of social injustice, rural life, and human struggles, aligning with his own literary philosophy.

*   **Objectives and Content (Rajendra Yadav's Era):** Under Rajendra Yadav's editorship, *Hans* was revitalized as a leading contemporary Hindi literary magazine. It continued to focus on modern Hindi short stories, poetry, literary criticism, and essays that engaged with contemporary social, political, and cultural issues. Yadav transformed it into a forum for intellectual discourse, often publishing controversial and thought-provoking content, making it a critical voice in the Hindi literary world. This relaunch and its subsequent editorial direction highlight the enduring power of magazines to shape literary trends and critical thought, embodying a form of **cultural gatekeeping**.

*   **Impact and Legacy:** *Hans*, under both Premchand and Yadav, has been instrumental in shaping Hindi literature. Premchand's *Hans* provided a vital platform during a crucial period of social awakening, while Yadav's *Hans* became a vanguard of contemporary Hindi literature, known for its progressive and often provocative stance, stimulating debate and fostering new literary talent.

### Conclusion

These newspapers and magazines—*Udant Martanda*, *Aaj*, *Hindustan*, *Saraswati*, *Pratap*, and *Hans*—are more than just historical artifacts; they are cornerstones of Indian journalism and national consciousness. They exemplify how media, even in its nascent stages, served as a potent force for social reform, political mobilization, and linguistic development. For a Mass Communication student, studying these publications offers invaluable lessons in media ethics, the power of the press in nation-building, the evolution of journalistic practices, and the intricate relationship between media, language, and society. Their legacies continue to inform contemporary debates on media's role and responsibility in a democratic society.

Famous Journalist- Babu Rao Vishnu Paradkar, Makhan lal Chaturvedi, Bhartendu Harishchandra, Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi, Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya, Mahatma Gandhi:

The history of Indian journalism, particularly during the pre-independence era, is intrinsically linked with the nation's struggle for freedom and social reform. Trailblazing journalists of this period viewed the press not merely as a medium for information but as a powerful instrument for public awakening, national unity, and resistance against colonial rule. Their contributions laid the bedrock for ethical and responsible journalism in India, embodying the spirit of the 'Fourth Estate' even under severe British censorship and repressive laws. This academic note delves into the lives and philosophies of six such luminaries: Babu Rao Vishnu Paradkar, Makhan Lal Chaturvedi, Bharatendu Harishchandra, Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi, Madan Mohan Malaviya, and Mahatma Gandhi. Their work, extensively documented in historical texts such as अम्बिका प्रसाद वाजपेयी's *समाचार पत्रों का इतिहास*, डॉ० अनिल कुमार उपाध्याय's *पत्रकारिता और जनसंचार सिद्धान्त और विकास संचार*, जे०नटराजन's *भारतीय पत्रकारिता का इतिहास*, कृष्ण बिहारी मिश्र's *हिन्दी पत्रकारिता*, पं०कमलापति त्रिपाठी's *पत्र एवं पत्रकार*, वेद प्रकाश वैदिक's *हिन्दी पत्रकारिता विविध आयाम*, and रामरतन भटनागर's *राइज एण्ड ग्रोथ आफ हिन्दी जर्नलिज्म*, profoundly shaped India's destiny.

### Famous Journalists: Pillars of Indian Nationalism and Social Reform

#### 1. Babu Rao Vishnu Paradkar: The Revolutionary Editor

Babu Rao Vishnu Paradkar (1883-1955), often hailed as the "Bhishma Pitamah of Hindi journalism," was a towering figure whose journalism was inherently revolutionary. Born in a Marathi family in Varanasi, his journalistic journey began in 1906 as an assistant editor for the Hindi newspaper 'Bangwasi' in Kolkata. He subsequently edited 'Hitvarta' and 'Bharat Mitra', using these platforms to expose the anti-national politics of the colonial regime and to inspire public participation in the freedom movement.

Paradkar's most significant contribution came with the daily 'Aaj' in Kashi (Varanasi), which he edited from 1920 throughout his life. His commitment to press freedom was evident during the Salt Satyagraha when, despite 'Aaj' being banned, he published a secret two-page magazine called 'Ranbheri' to disseminate revolutionary ideas across the country. He also edited 'Sansar' (1943-1947) and 'Kamla', a magazine for women, showcasing his diverse journalistic interests. Paradkar's impact extended to enriching the Hindi language itself, as he coined numerous new Hindi words, including 'Rashtrapati' (President), 'Mudrasphiti' (Inflation), 'Vayumandal' (Atmosphere), and 'Antarrashtriya' (International). His editorials, covering language, literature, journalism, the freedom struggle, economy, and social problems, are considered historically significant documents. Paradkar's work epitomizes **Nationalist Journalism** and **Advocacy Journalism**, using the vernacular press to mobilize and educate the masses for independence and social progress.

#### 2. Makhan Lal Chaturvedi: The 'One Indian Soul'

Pandit Makhanlal Chaturvedi (1889-1968), a distinguished poet, writer, and journalist, played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence. Often referred to as 'Pandit ji' or 'Yug Charan' (Bard of the Era) for his works reinforcing Indian nationalism, he was repeatedly incarcerated during the British Raj. Chaturvedi became a schoolteacher at 16 but later transitioned into journalism, editing prominent nationalist journals such as 'Prabha', 'Pratap', and most notably, 'Karmaveer'.

Through his journalistic endeavors, Chaturvedi actively participated in the freedom movement. After independence, he continued to write against social evils and advocated for an exploitation-free, equitable society, aligning with Mahatma Gandhi's vision. His philosophy of using media for social consciousness and national upliftment is celebrated, with the Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication in Bhopal named in his honor, serving as India's first university for journalism and mass communication. Chaturvedi's contributions highlight the power of **Nationalist Journalism** combined with literary prowess to inspire social change.

#### 3. Bharatendu Harishchandra: The Father of Modern Hindi Literature and Journalism

Bharatendu Harishchandra (1850-1885) is widely revered as the "Father of Modern Hindi Literature and Theater" and a pioneering figure in Hindi prose and journalism. Despite his short life, his influence on the Hindi language and media was immense. Born in Varanasi, he dedicated his efforts to promoting Hindi as a modern literary language at a time when Urdu and Persian held dominance.

Harishchandra edited and published several influential magazines, including 'Kavi Vachan Sudha' (started 1867), 'Harishchandra Magazine' (1873, later 'Harishchandra Chandrika'), and 'Bala Bodhini'. Through these platforms, he not only fostered literary debate but also used journalism as a tool for social reform, advocating for women's education, and promoting the Swadeshi movement by urging Indians to use indigenous products. His belief that "the progress of one's own language is the root of all progress" underscored his commitment to cultural nationalism. Harishchandra saw newspapers as "pleaders between the king and the public," effectively creating a **Public Sphere** for discourse and shaping public opinion, often facing the wrath of the British government for his nationalist writings. His work is a prime example of the critical role of the **Vernacular Press** in nation-building and social awakening.

#### 4. Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi: The Crusader for the Oppressed

Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi (1890-1931) was a distinguished Indian journalist, freedom fighter, and a leader of the Indian National Congress. Born in Allahabad, he is primarily known as the founder-editor of the Hindi newspaper 'Pratap', which he launched as a weekly in 1913 and converted into a daily in 1920.

'Pratap' became a powerful voice for the voiceless, identifying with the cause of the oppressed, including the peasants of Rae Bareli, the workers of Kanpur mills, and the downtrodden in Indian states. Vidyarthi was an archetypal **activist journalist** and a crusader who used his writings to foster political engagement and critical thinking among the masses. His investigative reporting on the plight of indigo farmers led to the Champaran Satyagraha, and his coverage of the Bijolia peasant movement brought it national attention. He actively supported revolutionaries like Ashfaqullah Khan, Ramprasad Bismil, and Bhagat Singh (who even worked at 'Pratap' under a pen name). Vidyarthi's commitment to justice transcended political divides; he fought fiercely against communalism, criticizing both Hindu Mahasabha and Muslim communalism. Tragically, he died a martyr in 1931 while attempting to save lives during communal riots in Kanpur, an act Mahatma Gandhi described as "Shandar" (splendid). An annual prize for exceptional journalism is awarded in his name, solidifying his legacy as a beacon of **Advocacy Journalism** and journalistic ethics.

#### 5. Madan Mohan Malaviya: The Institution Builder

Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya (1861-1946) was a multifaceted personality – a scholar, educational reformer, activist, and three-time President of the Indian National Congress. His contributions to Indian journalism were instrumental in shaping public opinion and advocating for national causes. Malaviya began his journalistic career in 1887 as the editor of the Hindi daily 'Hindustan'. He also edited 'Indian Opinion' in 1889.

Malaviya's vision led to the establishment of several significant publications. He founded the Hindi weekly 'Abhyudaya' in 1907, which later became a daily. In 1909, he established the highly influential English newspaper 'The Leader' from Allahabad, which served as a crucial platform for nationalist ideas. He also started the Hindi paper 'Maryada' in 1910 and the religious magazine 'Sanatana Dharma' in 1933. A testament to his strategic foresight, Malaviya, along with other national leaders and industrialists, acquired 'The Hindustan Times' in 1924, becoming its chairman until 1946, and later initiated its Hindi edition, 'Hindustan Dainik', in 1936. Malaviya viewed journalism as an art and a service, introducing new traditions and constantly striving for **Press Freedom**. He even originated the All India Editors' Conference, demonstrating his commitment to institutionalizing professional journalism in India. His simple and comprehensible Hindi style, known as 'Malaviyaji ki Hindi', made nationalist ideas accessible to a wider audience, underscoring his contribution to **Public Opinion Formation** and media development.

#### 6. Mahatma Gandhi: The Satyagrahi Journalist

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (1869-1948), the Father of the Nation, was not only a political leader and social reformer but also a journalist of profound insight and integrity. He famously stated that the "sole aim of journalism is service", viewing it as a sacred mission rather than a pursuit of profit. Gandhi's philosophy of journalism was deeply rooted in his principles of truth (Satya), non-violence (Ahimsa), and social justice.

His journalistic journey began in South Africa with 'Indian Opinion', which he launched in 1903. This multilingual newspaper (English, Gujarati, Tamil, Hindi) became his "first laboratory in ethical journalism," effectively voicing the feelings of Indians under apartheid. Upon his return to India, Gandhi continued to wield the power of the press through publications like 'Young India' (English, started 1919), 'Navajivan' (Gujarati, started 1919), and 'Harijan' (English, started 1933, with Hindi and Gujarati editions 'Harijan Sevak' and 'Harijan Bandu'). These were "views papers" through which he communicated his thoughts on politics, society, and morality, and played a crucial role in mobilizing masses for the independence movement.

Gandhi's **ethical journalism** rejected sensationalism and advocated for moderation, even in criticism. Significantly, he famously refused to carry advertisements in his papers, believing that journalism should be a public service, not a commercial enterprise, and that advertisements could compromise editorial independence and principles. His writings, characterized by simplicity, clarity, and moral force, aimed to awaken national consciousness, challenge British colonialism, and empower the Indian people by promoting a sense of shared identity. Gandhi's model of journalism, often referred to as **Satyagrahi journalism**, remains a powerful ideal for **Developmental Communication** and media ethics, advocating for media as a tool for moral persuasion and societal upliftment.

### Conclusion

These eminent journalists represent the foundational ethos of Indian mass communication. Operating in a challenging colonial environment marked by censorship (e.g., Vernacular Press Act 1878, Press Act 1910) they consistently championed **freedom of the press** and used their platforms for nationalist mobilization and social transformation. Their work demonstrated a profound understanding of media's power to shape **public opinion**, foster a collective national identity, and serve as a "catalyst in the freedom struggle". From modernizing vernacular languages (Bharatendu Harishchandra, Paradkar) to advocating for the marginalized (Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi, Makhan Lal Chaturvedi) and establishing ethical benchmarks for the profession (Mahatma Gandhi, Madan Mohan Malaviya), their collective legacy provides invaluable lessons for contemporary BA Mass Communication students. Their commitment to truth, public service, and the relentless pursuit of social justice continues to inspire discussions on the role and responsibilities of media in a democratic society.

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