Arnab Goswami, a prominent Indian journalist and news anchor, is known for his impactful career and often controversial style. This detailed biography explores his life, career, and significant achievements.
Biography/Wiki
Arnab Goswami was born on October 9, 1973, in Guwahati, Assam, India. His father’s career as an army officer meant his childhood was spent across various cities, attending different schools. He completed his higher education at Mount St. Mary’s School, Delhi Cantonment, and then Kendriya Vidyalaya, Jabalpur Cantonment for his senior secondary education. His interest in debating blossomed when he was just in the 6th standard. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Hindu College, Delhi University, and a Master’s in Social Anthropology from Oxford University, England.
His family background has political roots, but Goswami has consciously maintained distance from his family’s political connections. His educational journey reflects a commitment to both academic and journalistic pursuits. He successfully combined education and his strong interest in discussions and debate.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5′ 11″
- Hair Colour: Black
- Eye Colour: Black
Family, Caste & Wife
Arnab Goswami hails from an Assamese Brahmin family. His father, Manoranjan Goswami, was a retired colonel, and his mother is Suprabha Goswami. His paternal lineage boasts a distinguished history, including a grandfather who was a judge, Bhartiya Jana Sangh leader, and independence activist. His uncle served as a Union Law Minister. His sister and brother-in-law both have careers in the Indian Defence Services.
He’s married to Pipi Goswami, and they have two children together. His family life appears to be a source of strength and stability amidst his demanding career.
Career
Goswami’s journalistic career began in 1990 with The Telegraph, though this stint lasted less than a year. In 1995, he moved to Delhi, joining NDTV 24×7 as a news anchor. His rise was rapid; he progressed to become a news editor and hosted his own shows. He even co-anchored a program with Rajdeep Sardesai on DD Metro.
His success led to him receiving the Best News Anchor of Asia award in 2004 for his show, ‘Newsnight’. In 2002, he published his first book, Combating Terrorism: The Legal Challenge. This highlights his analytical and thought-provoking writing abilities.
In 2006, he took on the role of Editor-in-Chief of Times Now, hosting the popular 9 pm news show, ‘Newshour’. His ‘Frankly Speaking with Arnab’ program featured interviews with prominent global figures such as Benazir Bhutto, Hamid Karzai, the Dalai Lama, Hillary Clinton, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Goswami’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch Republic TV on May 6, 2017. This channel quickly achieved the #1 position, surpassing its rival, Times Now, within a week of its launch, showcasing the power of his media vision.
Controversies
Throughout his career, Arnab Goswami has faced various controversies. Criticism has been directed at his panel discussion style, with accusations of biased reporting and inflammatory language. Several legal cases and accusations of defamation have also been leveled against him and Republic TV.
Here’s a summary of some key controversies:
| Year | Controversy | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Legal complaint by Times Now Group | Allegations of theft, intellectual property infringement, and breach of trust. |
| 2017 | Defamation case by Shashi Tharoor | Republic TV was accused of linking Tharoor to his wife’s death. |
| 2020 | Allegations of derogatory remarks against Sonia Gandhi | FIRs were filed after remarks made during a discussion on the Palghar lynching. |
| 2020 | Arrest in abetment to suicide case | Involved in the death of architect Anvay Naik. Later granted interim bail. |
Awards
- Asian Television Award for Best Presenter (2003)
- Society Young Achievers Award (2007)
- Assamese of the Year Award (2010)
- Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Journalism (TV) (2010)
Salary
Arnab Goswami’s reported monthly salary is around ?1 Crore.
Favourite Things
- Hobbies: Reading, travelling, watching movies
- Favourite Politician: Atal Bihari Vajpayee
- Favourite Singer: Bhupen Hazarika
- Dietary Preference: Non-vegetarian
Facts
- Republic TV is located at the Bombay Dyeing Compound, Worli, Mumbai.
- He was the first journalist to ring the opening bell at the BSE in 2015.
- His family originally hails from a village in Assam’s Borpeta district.
- He once alerted Mumbai Police to a speeding Lamborghini.
- Sonia Gandhi was his first interviewee.
- His full name is Arnab Ranjan Goswami.
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