The world of journalism lost one of its brightest stars on December 8, with the untimely passing of Vipul Nautiyal. And that too at an age when many are at the peak of their career, his departure has left a profound void. A celebrated journalist, a fighter with an indomitable spirit, and an empathetic human being, His relentless dedication to his craft and his humanity touched the lives of all who knew him.
An integral part of The Pioneer family, Vipul Nautiyal was much more than just a journalist—he was an ardent soldier of truth. He minced no words when he disagreed and voiced the bitterest truths when they needed to be told. Yet, he was equally generous with praise for work that impressed him or touched his soul.
I first got to know him through a common friend. From then on, our friendship blossomed during meetings at the Press Club, and I grew to admire him deeply. At the time, I was contributing op-ed articles to The Pioneer, and when he asked me to join the paper full-time, I did so without hesitation. I knew I had much to learn from him—and learn I did.
As a mentor and guide, Vipul sir played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of various nuances of editing. He helped me manage the editorial and op-ed pages, setting high standards for every piece. His ruthlessness when it came to quality was legendary—stories that didn’t meet his standards were dropped, regardless of the writer’s stature. This unwavering commitment to excellence was a rarity and something I greatly respected.
His journey in journalism was neither easy nor conventional. He rose through the ranks, trying his hand at various roles—from marketing to circulation—before finding his true calling in journalism. A self-taught professional, he had an intuitive understanding of the craft, coupled with integrity and an unmatched dedication to his work.
In his early days of career when he worked as reporter, his reporting was meticulous, fearless, and insightful, often shedding light on socio-political complexities and amplifying the voices of the marginalised. In his last days despite his illness, he maintained a level of professionalism and passion that was awe-inspiring. Deadlines, late nights, and the high-pressure demands of the newsroom never fazed him, making him a role model for many aspiring writers.
The past one year was a testament to his resilience. Despite battling a prolonged illness, he never let his struggles dampen his positivity or generosity. Friends and family remember him as a beacon of strength, facing adversity with grace and courage. This same tenacity defined his career and inspired those around him.
Beyond his professional achievements, Vipul sir will be remembered for his kindness and empathy. He was always ready to mentor young journalists, support colleagues, and lend a listening ear to those in need. For me, he was not just a boss but a friend, philosopher, and guide. I called him Vipul sir which sometimes annoyed him. Despite my insistence that he was my superior, he affectionately called me “Gyan sir,” jokingly proposing that we be “sirs for each other.”
But perhaps, deep inside, he carried a sense of brokenness—a quiet melancholy he rarely shared.
There was a void within him, one he sought to fill in moments of solitude, often with a glass in hand. It was a battle he fought in silence, yet it ultimately took its toll and eventually his life. His passing has left a void that will be hard to fill, but his legacy endures in the lives he touched and the stories he told. He exemplified what it means to stand by one’s principles, persevere through hardships, and approach life with compassion and integrity. Mr Vipul Nautiyal may no longer be with us, but the impact of his life and work will continue to inspire generations.
Journey well, Vipul sir. You will always be with us!
