Shekhar Gupta is a highly respected figure in Indian journalism, known for his insightful commentary and long career in the media industry. His contributions span various prominent publications and platforms.

Wiki/Biography

Shekhar Gupta was born on August 26, 1957, in Palwal, Haryana, India. He completed his schooling across different locations, including Palwal, Rohtak, and Punjab. His initial academic interests leaned towards the arts, but circumstances led him to science and engineering studies. A chance encounter with a journalism admission notice while correcting his name on a university mark sheet ultimately altered the course of his life.

Physical Appearance

• Height (approx.): 5′ 10″
• Weight (approx.): 80 kg
• Hair Colour: Grey
• Eye Colour: Black

Family, Caste & Girlfriend

Shekhar Gupta comes from a Hindu family. While details about his extended family remain relatively private, it’s known his father was a government employee. He is married to Neelam Jolly.

Career

Gupta began his journalistic journey in 1977 as a cub reporter at The Indian Express in Chandigarh. After six years, he moved to India Today, covering significant events such as Operation Blue Star, the 1991 Gulf War, and the Nellie massacre. His return to The Indian Express led to his appointment as Editor-in-Chief and CEO, a role he held for 13 years before resigning in 2015. During this time, he also wrote a popular weekly column, “National Interest,” and hosted the highly successful long-running NDTV 24×7 talk show, “Walk the Talk,” which featured over 600 guests.

A brief stint as Editor-in-Chief at India Today followed, but he soon embarked on a new venture. In 2017, he co-founded The Print, a digital media company. While initially announced as a collaboration, Barkha Dutt’s involvement with The Print was ultimately short-lived.

His popular interview show, rebranded as “Off the Cuff,” continues on NDTV 24×7, but under The Print’s ownership. The format evolved to incorporate a live audience and interactive sessions.

Controversies

Gupta’s career has also involved several controversies. These include accusations of tax evasion related to his company, Greenpine Agro; a lawsuit against Vinod Mehta; an accusation by Taslima Nasreen regarding a headline alteration; and his mention in a supplementary charge sheet related to the AugustaWestland scam.

Awards/Achievements

Shekhar Gupta’s contributions to journalism have been widely recognized. His accolades include:

• 1984 American Society of Newspaper Editors (ASNE) fellowship
• 1985 Inlaks “Young Journalist of the Year” Award
• 1997 GK Reddy Award for Journalism
• 2006 Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Award for National Integration
• 2009 Padma Bhushan Award

Salary

His salary as Editor-in-Chief of The Indian Express was reportedly ?10 crore per annum (as of 2015).

Facts

His wife, Neelam Jolly, runs the NGO Vishwas, supported by many prominent figures in the media. He has also authored several books, including “Anticipating India” and a collection of interviews from “Walk the Talk.”

Key Career Highlights

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