CUJ Marks Hindi Journalism Day with Tribute to Vernacular Legacy and Media Evolution

CUJ
CUJ

May 31: The Central University of Jammu (CUJ) observed Hindi Journalism Day on May 30, 2025, with a spirited celebration that blended historical reflection with a forward-looking dialogue on the language’s role in India’s dynamic media ecosystem. The event, organized by the Department of Mass Communication and New Media, brought students, faculty, and scholars together to honor the power of vernacular journalism and its pivotal role in India’s democratic discourse.

The commemoration traces its roots back to May 30, 1826, when ‘Udant Martand’, India’s first Hindi newspaper, was published in Calcutta by Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla. It was more than just a historical milestone — it was a declaration of linguistic pride and a step toward accessible journalism for the Hindi-speaking population.

At CUJ, speakers shed light on the critical role Hindi journalism plays in reaching grassroots audiences and shaping public opinion. Faculty members highlighted how Hindi-language reporting remains a powerful tool for representation and regional voice, especially in the age of digital platforms and breaking news cycles. They also emphasized the need to elevate journalistic ethics and storytelling in Hindi to ensure its relevance and credibility in modern newsrooms.

The students participated actively, showcasing presentations and holding discussions on the transformation of Hindi journalism — from print to broadcast, and now to digital formats. Conversations also covered challenges like media commercialization, linguistic bias in mainstream news, and the need for institutional support to encourage young journalists to pursue careers in Hindi media.

The university used the occasion not just as a commemoration of the past, but as a call to action for future media professionals to uphold the values of truth, clarity, and cultural integrity. The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose — that Hindi journalism is not just surviving but evolving, bridging tradition with modern expression.

CUJ’s celebration was not merely ceremonial but a sincere homage to the power of language in shaping society. It affirmed that journalism in Hindi is not just about regional pride — it is a national imperative that strengthens democracy by ensuring inclusivity in information dissemination.