Eminent journalist HK Dua cremated
Noted journalist and former Rajya Sabha MP HK Dua, who had the distinction of helming several leading newspapers, was cremated at the Lodhi Road crematorium here on Thursday afternoon. The last rites were performed by his son Prashant Dua in the presence of his mother Adity Dua, eminent personalities and senior journalists.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Governor NN Vohra, former Union Law Minister Ashwani Kumar, former MP Naresh Gujral and editors of several newspapers and news organisations were present at the cremation.
Dua breathed his last on Wednesday afternoon at a private hospital. He had been suffering from an ailment for some time and was admitted to the hospital around three weeks ago. He was 88. A prayer meeting will be held in his memory on March 7 (Saturday) morning at the India International Centre, a place he loved to be at after his retirement.
In a career spanning over four decades, Dua had the distinction of helming four newspapers — The Hindustan Times, The Indian Express, The Times of India and The Tribune. He had also served as a media advisor to two prime ministers — Atal Bihari Vajpayee and HD Deve Gowda — and transitioned into the roles of a diplomat and parliamentarian.
A Padma Bhushan recipient, Dua was known for his affable persona, sharp political insight and unwavering commitment to editorial independence. He commanded respect across the political spectrum.
Born on July 1, 1937, Dua also served as India’s ambassador to Denmark (2001-03). He was nominated a member of the Rajya Sabha (2009-15), where he contributed significantly to debates on foreign affairs and national security.
A former president of the Editors’ Guild of India and a steadfast defender of democratic values, Dua also served on the National Security Advisory Board and received honorary doctorates from Punjab and Kurukshetra Universities for his contributions to the Fourth Estate. Apart from the Padma Bhushan, he received several awards, including the Durga Ratan award and the Bal Gangadhar Tilak award for excellence in journalism.
