Hindi Journalism Day 2025

Hindi Journalism Day is observed every year on May 30. The day marks the beginning of Hindi journalism in India. On this day in 1826, Udant Martand, the first Hindi newspaper, was published in Kolkata. It was started by Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla, who is considered the pioneer of Hindi journalism.

This was a time when most newspapers in India were in English, Persian, or Bengali. Common people who spoke Hindi had no newspaper in their own language. Shukla saw this gap and decided to change it. His aim was to make news accessible to those who understood only Hindi.

The paper was published once a week and had an annual subscription of ₹2. It had a small team and very limited resources. Due to financial challenges and poor distribution outside Bengal, Udant Martand had to shut down after only 79 editions. But even though it did not last long, the impact it made was historic. It opened the door for Hindi journalism in India.

Why Hindi Journalism Matters

In a country as large and diverse as India, language plays a key role in information access. Hindi is the most spoken language in India. When people receive news in a language they understand well, they feel more connected. It helps them make sense of the world around them.

Hindi journalism brought news to people who were not part of the English-speaking elite. It made it easier for them to learn about politics, society, governance, and the economy. Over the years, it has helped spread awareness about rights, education, health, and government schemes.

Even today, Hindi newspapers, TV channels, and websites continue to serve millions of readers and viewers. From urban cities to small towns and villages, Hindi news reaches people across different regions and age groups.

The Role of Hindi Journalists

Hindi Journalism Day is also a time to appreciate the journalists who work in the field. Many of them report from remote areas. They travel long distances, sometimes at personal risk, to tell stories that matter. Their work often brings attention to issues that are ignored by national media.

Many Hindi journalists report on topics like local governance, water shortages, agricultural problems, public health, education, and crime. Their stories help people raise their voices and demand accountability.

In many cases, these reporters do not have access to big newsrooms or fancy equipment. But their commitment to the truth remains strong. They play a very important role in strengthening democracy.

Growth of Hindi Media

After Udant Martand, many Hindi newspapers started to come up in different parts of India. Today, Hindi is the language of some of the largest newspapers in the country. Publications like Dainik Jagran, Amar Ujala, Hindustan, Navbharat Times, and many others have millions of readers.

The rise of television added a new chapter. Hindi news channels became household names. Channels like Aaj Tak, Zee News, ABP News, and News18 India brought breaking news, live reporting, and debates to Hindi-speaking audiences.

In the last decade, digital platforms have changed the way news is consumed. Hindi news websites, YouTube channels, and social media handles now reach people directly on their phones. Many first-time internet users prefer reading or watching content in Hindi.

Hindi journalism has not only survived but also adapted to new technology. It has grown with its audience and continues to evolve.

How the Day is Celebrated

On May 30, many journalism schools, media houses, and press clubs organise events to mark Hindi Journalism Day. These include seminars, panel discussions, essay competitions, and award ceremonies.

Editors and senior journalists talk about their experiences. Young students and new reporters get a chance to learn from them. These events also highlight the changing role of media and the challenges faced by journalists today.

In recent years, social media has also become a space where many media professionals share posts about the legacy of Udant Martand and the evolution of Hindi journalism.

Challenges and the Way Forward

Hindi journalism, like all journalism, faces several challenges. There is pressure to publish or broadcast news quickly. There is the constant fight against fake news and misinformation. Many local reporters also deal with threats, political pressure, and legal risks.

Despite these issues, Hindi journalism continues to do meaningful work. There are reporters doing ground-level investigations. There are editors working hard to maintain journalistic ethics. And there are media startups trying new ways to tell stories in Hindi — through podcasts, short videos, and newsletters.

In the coming years, the need for Hindi journalism will only grow. More people are going online. Many of them are from smaller towns and rural areas. They prefer reading or watching news in Hindi. The digital shift has created a new audience that values simplicity, clarity, and trust.

A Lasting Legacy

When Udant Martand was launched, it was much more than just a newspaper. It was an idea — that everyone deserves to know what’s happening in their world, no matter which language they speak.

Hindi Journalism Day reminds us of this idea. It reminds us that journalism is not just for the few. It is for everyone. And when done well, in any language, it can inform, inspire, and bring about real change.