Padma Bhushan for Ram Bahadur Rai at IGNCA

Celebration of a lifelong journey in journalism

Padma Bhushan for Ram Bahadur Rai at IGNCA: On June 18, 2025, the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour, was conferred on Shri Ram Bahadur Rai. Known for his steadfast commitment to journalism, literature, and cultural thought, he was felicitated at a special ceremony held at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in New Delhi. This event, organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs, became a gathering of intellectual minds who came to celebrate a career that shaped decades of Indian journalism.

Why a separate event was held?

Though this honour is usually presented at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, a separate ceremony was arranged at IGNCA because Shri Rai couldn’t attend the original event. The award, which includes a medal and a citation signed by the President of India, was handed over by Shri Satpal Chauhan, Director General, Ministry of Home Affairs. This unique presentation reflected not just respect but the value of inclusivity in India’s civilian honours.

Not just a journalist but a cultural pillar

Ram Bahadur Rai is more than just a senior journalist. He’s a name that resonates with those who believe in media ethics, national values, and deep intellectual analysis. As President of IGNCA Trust and Chancellor of SGT University, he has also helped shape academic thought. His association with journals like Jansatta, Navbharat Times, and Yathavat reflects his wide influence on both news reporting and editorial policy.

Deep roots in Indian political history

Before journalism, Shri Rai was part of India’s JP Movement, a major student-led movement in the 1970s. He was even imprisoned during the Emergency under MISA, showcasing his commitment to democratic values. Such moments connect his career to India’s broader socio-political evolution, making this honour historically relevant.

Books that shaped minds

He has authored several notable works such as Manzil Se Zyada Safar, Rahbari ke Sawal, and Kali Khabron ki Kahani. These writings go beyond just reporting—they reflect on politics, governance, and journalism’s changing face in India.

Other notable awards over the years

Shri Rai was earlier awarded the Padma Shri in 2015. He also received the Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Samman, Madhavrao Sapre Award, and Hindi Ratna Samman, proving that his excellence has been consistently recognised.

Voices that honoured the voice

Prominent figures like Najeeb Jung, Santosh Bhartiya, and Hemant Sharma graced the ceremony. Each of them shared personal reflections, highlighting Shri Rai’s role as a mentor, inspiration, and a defender of truth in media. Suggestions for a biography also surfaced during the ceremony—a sign that his journey still has more to inspire.

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