Rajdeep Sardesai, born on 24 May 1965, stands as a prominent figure in Indian news broadcasting, celebrated for his multifaceted career as an anchor, reporter, journalist, and author. Throughout his journey, Sardesai has exemplified editorial leadership, insightful reporting, and an unwavering commitment to truth.
Early Life and Education
Hailing from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Rajdeep Sardesai was born into a family steeped in excellence, with a father, Dilip Sardesai, renowned in Indian Test cricket, and a mother, Nandini, an accomplished sociologist-activist. His educational odyssey began at Campion School, Mumbai, and continued at The Cathedral & John Connon School, Mumbai. Sardesai pursued his undergraduate studies in economics at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, before attaining a Bachelor of Arts in jurisprudence from University College, Oxford. While at Oxford, he also showcased his prowess in cricket, earning a coveted Cricket Blue.
Career Genesis and Journalistic Foray
In 1988, Sardesai commenced his journalistic voyage at The Times of India, assuming the role of city editor for its Mumbai edition. Six years later, he transitioned to television journalism, joining New Delhi Television (NDTV) as its Political Editor in 1994. His dynamic reporting and captivating shows, notably “The Big Fight,” swiftly catapulted him into the limelight of Indian journalism.
Founding Global Broadcast News
A defining moment in Sardesai’s career arrived in 2005 when he embarked on a bold venture: the establishment of his own company, Global Broadcast News (GBN). This pioneering endeavour, in collaboration with CNN and Raghav Bahl’s TV18, culminated in the inception of CNN-IBN, an English news channel that debuted in December 2005. GBN’s success expanded with the acquisition of a stake in Channel 7, later rebranded as IBN7. However, in 2014, Sardesai and his founding team relinquished their roles at the Network18 group following its acquisition by Reliance Industries Ltd.
Personal Life and Adversities
Rajdeep Sardesai is married to journalist and author Sagarika Ghose, and the couple shares two children, Ishan and Tarini. Despite his professional triumphs, Sardesai has encountered controversies. In 2014, he was allegedly involved in a physical altercation with a group at Madison Square in New York, sparking heated debates. Additionally, in 2019, Sardesai faced defamation charges stemming from false reporting on the involvement of IPS officer Rajiv Trivedi in the death of Sohrabuddin Sheikh, ultimately resolved with an unconditional apology.
Contributions and Accolades
Rajdeep Sardesai’s contributions to journalism have garnered widespread acclaim. In 2008, he was bestowed with the Padma Shri by the Government of India. His coverage of the 2002 Gujarat riots earned him the International Broadcasters Award, while the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award recognised his exceptional achievements in 2006. Notably, the ENBA award in 2020 honoured Sardesai’s lifetime contribution to the field of journalism.
Literary Endeavors and Authorship
Beyond his journalistic pursuits, Sardesai is a prolific author, offering profound insights into Indian politics and societal dynamics through books such as “How Modi Won India,” “The Election That Changed India,” and “Democracy’s XI.” Collaborating on a chapter in the book “Gujarat: The Making of a Tragedy,” Sardesai continues to enrich the discourse on pivotal events in Indian history.
Conclusion
Rajdeep Sardesai’s journalistic odyssey epitomises a steadfast commitment to truth, resilience in adversity, and an unwavering pursuit of journalistic excellence. As he continues to wield a significant influence in Indian media, his legacy as a trailblazer and thought leader remains etched in the annals of Indian journalism.