The late Vinod Dua, whose life spanned from March 11, 1954, to December 4, 2021, emerged as a pioneering figure in Indian journalism. His illustrious career, marked by accolades, controversies, and an unwavering dedication to truthful reporting, left an indelible mark on the industry.
Early Life and Formative Years
Vinod Dua’s journey began in the refugee colonies of Delhi, where his parents, Saraiki Hindus displaced from Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, post-Partition, imparted to him a sense of resilience. His early involvement in the arts, including singing, debates, and theatre, laid the groundwork for a multifaceted career. His association with the street theatre group Theatre Union showcased his commitment to addressing societal issues through artistic expression.
Educationally, Dua pursued English literature at Hans Raj College and obtained his master’s degree from the University of Delhi. His entry into television commenced in November 1974 with ‘Yuva Manch,’ a Hindi youth program on Doordarshan.
Television Career: A Trailblazing Journey
Dua’s television career flourished with shows like ‘Jawan Tarang’ and ‘Aap Ke Liye,’ showcasing his versatility. Co-anchoring election analyses on Doordarshan in 1984 alongside Prannoy Roy propelled his career forward. Dua’s distinctive style and insightful analysis garnered opportunities with various television channels.
In 1988, he founded The Communication Group, a production company focused on current affairs, budget analysis, and documentary films. Notably, he produced the weekly current affairs magazine ‘Parakh’ on Doordarshan from 1992 to 1996.
The zenith of Dua’s career arrived in 1996 when he became the first electronic media journalist to receive the prestigious Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award. His association with diverse shows, from ‘Tasveer-e-Hind’ to ‘Chakravyuha,’ underscored his ability to engage audiences across different genres.
Controversies: Facing Adversity
Dua faced controversies throughout his career. His vocal opposition to sexist remarks against his daughter sparked a public confrontation with actor Akshay Kumar in 2017. In 2018, filmmaker Nishtha Jain accused Dua of sexual harassment, an allegation vehemently refuted by Dua as a politically motivated attempt to besmirch his reputation.
Amid legal battles, an FIR filed in 2020 accusing Dua of spreading false information on his YouTube show was ultimately dismissed by the Supreme Court, reaffirming the importance of freedom of speech.
Legacy and Recognition: An Enduring Influence
Dua’s legacy is immortalised in the annals of Indian journalism. Honours such as the Padma Shri in 2008 and the Ramnath Goenka Award underscored his unparalleled contributions. In 2017, the Mumbai Press Club bestowed upon him the RedInk Award for Lifetime Achievement in Journalism.
Tragically, Dua’s battle with COVID-19, which also claimed the life of his wife in June 2021, culminated in his passing due to chronic liver disease in December 2021.
Vinod Dua’s lasting impact on Indian journalism transcends controversies and challenges. His unwavering commitment to truth, fearless reporting, and innovative storytelling continues to inspire a new generation of journalists navigating the dynamic landscape of media in India.