In this episode of Jam with Sam, host Sampath Iyengar dives into an insightful conversation with Pinky Dalal, the former editor-in-chief of Bombay Samachar, Asia’s oldest daily newspaper. Pinky recounts her journey from a homemaker to a celebrated journalist, her experiences in the newsroom, and her observations on the evolving landscape of media. Here’s a glimpse into the life of a storyteller who believes in the power of real journalism.
The Early Days: From Surat to Mumbai
Born and raised in Surat, Pinky Dalal’s initial days were a blend of education at Lutz Convent High School and Jeevan Bharti, followed by a brief stint at KP College of Commerce. Her life took a turn at 18 when she moved to Mumbai after marriage. Encouraged by her husband to pursue her interests, Pinky found herself drawn to the creative world, which eventually led her to journalism.
The Spark That Ignited a Career
A chance conversation with artist Jatin Das served as the catalyst for Pinky’s foray into journalism. Das encouraged her to explore her hidden talents, which led her to pursue a journalism course at KC College in 1984. However, Pinky realized that practical experience outweighed theoretical learning. She began freelancing for various newspapers and magazines, eventually joining Indian Express in 1991 before transitioning to Bombay Samachar.
Bombay Samachar: Tradition Meets Change
During her 17-year tenure at Bombay Samachar, Pinky played a pivotal role in balancing the publication’s rich legacy with modern journalism practices. She described the workplace as a family-oriented environment, starkly different from the corporate structure of other media houses. Despite its traditional approach, Bombay Samachar remained a cherished part of her professional journey.
Pinky noted how journalism was more authentic during her time, free from the political affiliations and sensationalism that dominate today’s media.
Adventures in Journalism
One of Pinky’s standout stories involved exposing a scam in which young Gujarati girls were lured to Dubai under false pretenses. Her investigative reporting not only shed light on the issue but also led to legal action against the culprits. As a defense reporter, she visited conflict zones like Jammu and Kashmir, gaining unique insights into the realities of life in volatile regions.
Thoughts on Media Evolution and Future Projects
Pinky expressed concerns about the commodification of media and the prevalence of fake news in the digital age. She lamented the decline of print journalism, predicting a bleak future for traditional newspapers amidst the rise of instant online news.
Currently, Pinky is working on a dream project documenting the 400-year history of Bombay. This coffee-table book will explore the city’s architectural marvels, cultural evolution, and fascinating anecdotes, such as the transformation of Villa Vienna into Shahrukh Khan’s Mannat.
About Pinky Dalal:
Pinky Dalal is a distinguished journalist and author who served as the editor-in-chief of Bombay Samachar. With over two decades of experience in journalism, she has authored six books and continues to explore new projects. A passionate traveller and storyteller, Pinky remains an inspiration for aspiring journalists.