Veteran journalist Chandan Mitra no more
1955-2021
Veteran journalist and former Rajya Sabha MP Chandan Mitra died late Wednesday at his south Delhi residence after a long ailment. He was 65.Mitra is survived by his wife Shobori Ganguly and two sons Kushan and Shakya. The death of the columnist and raconteur, known for his sharp views on politics and also his abiding love for old Hindi film music, was condoled by many including the President and Prime Minister.
Veteran journalist and former ajya Sabha MP Chandan Mitra died late Wednesday at his south Delhi residence after a long ailment. He was 65.
Mitra, who did a stint in various newspapers, including the Times of India and the Hindustan Times, in his long career as a journalist before he became editor of The Pioneer, is survived by his wife Shobori Ganguly and two sons Kushan and Shakya.
The death of the columnist and raconteur, known for his sharp views on politics and also his abiding love for old Hindi film music, was condoled by a host of political leaders across the spectrum as well as President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“Shri Chandan Mitra Ji will be remembered for his intellect and insights. He distinguished himself in the world of media as well as politics. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” the Prime Minister said in a tweet.
The President described him as an outstanding journalist whose stint as a parliamentarian added to his reputation. “His understanding of Hindi heartland and its history was profound. His demise leaves a void in Indian journalism. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” Kovind tweeted.
Expressing his anguish, BJP president JP Nadda said Mitra would be remembered for his distinguished career in the field of media and service for people. TMC president and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also condoled his death and said he would always be remembered for his contribution to the world of journalism and politics.
Shashi Tharoor had some memories to share too. Stephanians both, Mitra was Tharoor’s campaign manager in the election for the St Stephen’s College Union Society.
The Press Club of India issued a statement condoling Mitra’s demise. “Chandan Mitra was a stalwart editor who also had fruitful innings in The Statesman and as editor of Hindustan Times. Mitra mentored young reporters, and relaunched The Pioneer. His passing is a great loss,” it said.