The Press Club of Jamshedpur hosted the inaugural session of its lecture series at Sakchi, featuring veteran journalist and writer Anuj Kumar Sinha. In a thought-provoking address, Sinha shared insights from his 40-year journalistic journey, emphasizing that the end of one phase in life often marks the beginning of another, much like the transition from "Pushpa One" to "Pushpa Two."
Sinha, set to retire from Prabhat Khabar on December 31, described his upcoming retirement as the start of a new chapter. "As long as the breath flows and the mind, eyes, and hands function, the journalist and writer within me will remain alive," he affirmed, encouraging his peers to embrace transitions with renewed vigor and purpose.
Highlighting the importance of preserving history, Sinha stressed the need for documenting the achievements of individuals and organizations that have contributed meaningfully to society. He noted that while Jharkhand played a pivotal role in India’s independence, much of its history was overshadowed by documentation in Bihar. He credited Prabhat Khabar for shedding light on significant events, including Mahatma Gandhi's Jharkhand tours, Shibu Soren's anti-usury movement, and the unnamed heroes of the Jharkhand Nirman movement.
Sinha lauded the cosmopolitan culture of Jamshedpur, calling it unparalleled. "Those who leave Jamshedpur always long to return," he said, reflecting the city’s deep emotional connection with its residents.
Addressing his journalist peers, Sinha underscored the importance of ethical integrity in their profession. “Personal friendships should never interfere with professional duties,” he advised. Drawing from his experiences, he recounted moments like the BDO Naxalite kidnapping and the tragic accident of journalist Sanjay Ojha, emphasizing the role of journalists in saving lives and driving meaningful change.
The event began with Press Club General Secretary Vikas Kumar Srivastava presenting a biography of Sinha, followed by a warm welcome from Prabhat Khabar’s senior editor Sanjay Mishra. Former Health Minister Dr. Dinesh Sarangi highlighted Sinha’s deep attachment to Jharkhand, while Press Club President Sanjeev Bhardwaj expressed gratitude in his vote of thanks.
The lecture was attended by prominent figures, including former MP Shailendra Mahato, BJP State Spokesperson Amarpreet Singh Kale, Jharkhand State Bar Council Vice President Rajesh Kumar Shukla, and representatives from various social organizations. Social worker Dr. Vinni Sarangi, Advocate Sudhir Kumar Pappu, and several journalists were also present in large numbers, making the event a memorable gathering of intellectuals and changemakers.
