A meditation on journalism as duty — where memory, conviction and truth restore a nation’s moral compass
In times where journalism is being commodified and polarised beyond recognition, Ink, Saffron and Freedom is a powerful reminder of what journalism once was — and what it still can be. It is a reminder that truth is not a trending topic; it is a lifelong commitment. It gives me great pleasure — and an even greater sense of pride — to celebrate the life and words of my senior colleague and editor, Kedar Nath Gupta ji. I have known Kedar ji for many decades. We’ve shared more than just a profession — we’ve shared a purpose. We’ve walked the same lanes of New Delhi, chased the same stories in Delhi’s corridors of power, and together watched this country find its voice, sometimes painfully, sometimes triumphantly.
Reading Ink, Saffron and Freedom is like walking down memory lane, but it’s much more than that. It is a testimony to a life lived with integrity, courage, and relentless commitment to the nation. Kedar ji’s voice — firm but never flamboyant — has always carried weight, not because it sought the limelight, but because it reflected.
This book bears the same stamp. We both come from a generation of journalists who saw the newsroom not as a career platform, but as a battlefield — where facts were weapons and words were responsibility. And it is no surprise to me that Kedar ji has chosen to document this journey in a manner that is fearless, unfiltered, and deeply rooted in service to our motherland, Bharat. I remember the early days when we would often meet in the offices of Hindusthan Samachar and The Times of India. Gupta ji always brought with him the same meticulous energy and clarity of thought that he has brought to every aspect of his life.
He was instrumental not just in crafting narratives, but in upholding the dignity of the newsroom. But our connection wasn’t just personal — it was political in the best sense of the word. Kedar ji has always stood for a brand of journalism that upholds the sovereignty of India, questions power with integrity, and never allows anti-India forces to hijack the narrative. This book is a continuation of that legacy. Kedar ji very aptly warns about the increasing influence of foreign consultancies and interests, which seem to be increasingly embedded in policy decisions; his warning against the creeping influence of global corporations is not just timely — it is essential, particularly in the present era of the increasing importance of Information Technology and data security. What makes this book truly unique is how seamlessly it ties the personal with the national. Through his eyes, we see the story of post-Independence India unfold — not just through events, but through values. His lifelong association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is presented not as dogma, but as a deeply philosophical commitment to the idea of nationhood, discipline, and cultural self-confidence.
The author’s reflections on the present leadership are particularly significant.He acknowledges the historical mandate given to Prime Minister Modi but also calls for introspection. Has this mandate translated into a true cultural and civilisational revival? Or does it need a revisit amid the noise of electoral victories and policy compromises? These are hard questions, but they are asked from a place of love — not bitterness. His call to Hindus to unite, to rise above petty divisions, and to reclaim the civilisational soul of this country is urgent — especially in light of the tragic events in Pahalgam recently, where innocent Hindu pilgrims were targeted in an act of terror. Kedar ji’s life — and this book — are both reminders that the price of freedom is eternal vigilance. We cannot afford to be bystanders anymore — not in journalism, not in society, and certainly not in matters of national integrity. The book was released recently at a crowded, houseful gathering at the Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi by RSS Sah-Sarkaryavah Dr Krishna Gopal ji and ANI Chairman Shri Prem Prakash ji. The launch function was attended by about 800 people, including celebrities from all walks of life. Being an author myself, I know how difficult it is to write with honesty. It requires not just facts, but reflection. Not just memory, but meaning. Kedar ji has done that with grace. This book is a “love letter to Delhi”, but also a call to arms for young journalists. To those just beginning their journey in media, I urge you to read this book not as nostalgia, but as instruction. It will teach you that the role of a journalist is not merely to inform, but to elevate public discourse.
To question, yes — but also to uphold. In times when journalism is being commodified and polarised beyond recognition, this book is a powerful reminder of what it once was — and what it still can be. It is a reminder that truth is not a trending topic; it is a lifelong commitment. To the author, I would like to say a big thank you. Thank you for making the effort at the age of 94 to tell your story. Thank you for reminding us of ours. And thank you for proving that no matter how many years pass, the pen still holds power — when it is wielded with courage, clarity, and conviction. Ink, Saffron and Freedom is not just a book. It is an offering. A piece of national memory. A call to conscience. Let us accept it with the seriousness it deserves — and pass it on to generations who must now carry this story forward! It is a rare privilege to witness a senior and worthy colleague — a father figure to many of us — encapsulate a lifetime of experiences into a memoir. Kedar Nath Gupta ji’s Ink, Saffron and Freedom is such a work — a reflection of his unwavering dedication to journalism and India’s progress. Our paths crossed decades ago when I was 19 and a new entrant to journalism, sharing stories, challenges, and a vision for a free and robust press. I must say that the author’s narratives in this book — from the tumultuous post-Independence era to the present day — offer readers a front-row seat to India’s evolving political and social landscape. His commitment to ethical journalism and national service resonates deeply with me. As a journalist and author myself, I understand the weight of responsibility journalists bear in shaping public discourse. Gupta ji’s memoir is a testament to that responsibility carried with honour.
I would also like to thank Manoranjana, a senior journalist and media entrepreneur, for editing the book. She has done a remarkable job. I invite all lovers of Indian journalism and history to read this book.
Philosophy In Practice
What makes Ink, Saffron and Freedom truly unique is how seamlessly it ties the personal with the national. Through his eyes, we see the story of post-Independence India unfold — not just through events, but through values. His lifelong association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is presented not as dogma, but as a deeply philosophical commitment to the idea of nationhood, discipline, and cultural self-confidence.
About the Book
Book: Ink, Saffron & Freedom
Author: Kedar Nath Gupta
Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan
Price: Rs 800/-
- The writer is a Senior Journalist & Author. Views are Personal