Aroon Purie: Celebrating the visionary who transformed Indian media

Today marks the 80th birthday of Aroon Purie, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of the India Today Group, one of India's most respected media conglomerates. 

A trailblazer in Indian journalism, Purie has spent decades redefining the landscape of news, media, and storytelling in the country.

Born into a family with a business background, Purie chose a path that merged entrepreneurial instincts with a passion for impactful journalism. Armed with an engineering degree from the University of London and a business management degree from the London Business School, Purie entered the world of publishing in 1975 with the launch of India Today magazine. The magazine, which started as a monthly focusing on politics, economy, and culture, quickly became a beacon of high-quality journalism, setting benchmarks for accuracy, depth, and presentation.

Under Purie’s visionary leadership, the India Today Group expanded its portfolio to include television channels, radio, digital platforms and event properties. The flagship India Today magazine continues to be a household name, while channels like Aaj Tak and India Today TV dominate the Indian broadcast space.

Purie’s influence goes beyond creating a media empire; he has been a champion of innovation and integrity in journalism. His knack for spotting trends and adapting to the changing media landscape has ensured that the India Today Group remains relevant and respected even in the digital age.

His contributions to journalism have earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors, in 2001. He is also widely respected for nurturing journalistic talent and fostering a culture of ethical reporting.

As Purie celebrates another milestone, the industry and readers alike salute his unparalleled contribution to Indian media. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership, commitment to truth, and a deep understanding of audience needs.

Happy Birthday, Aroon Purie! May you continue to inspire generations of media professionals and storytellers.