Name : A. Surya Prakash
Profession : Public Broadcaster, Journalist, Author
Location : Mysuru, Karnataka
In a time when news is often loud, rushed, and influenced by ratings, India needed calm, truthful, and responsible voices in journalism. One such voice belongs to A. Surya Prakash — a journalist, thinker, and former Chairman of Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcaster. His life story reminds us that journalism is not just a profession, but a public duty.
A Journey Rooted in Truth
A. Surya Prakash entered journalism with a simple belief:
“News must serve the people, not power.”
From the very beginning, he believed that journalism should inform citizens honestly, help them understand their democracy, and hold institutions accountable. He chose facts over noise, balance over bias, and responsibility over popularity. These values shaped his entire career. As a public broadcaster, he is recognized for his contributions to various leading media organizations. He has written a wide range of books on Indian politics and parliamentary democracy.
During his journalism career, he worked in various Indian and international news organizations, including editor at Zee News, political editor of the Eenadu Group, India editor for Asia Times, executive editor at the Pioneer, and Chief of Bureau at Indian Express.
Leading India’s Public Broadcaster with Integrity
As the Chairman of Prasar Bharati, A. Surya Prakash took on a challenging responsibility. Prasar Bharati — which includes Doordarshan and All India Radio — reaches millions of Indians, including those in remote villages where private media does not reach.
His mission was clear:
“Public broadcasting must belong to the people.”
During his leadership, he worked to:
- Protect editorial independence
- Encourage balanced and factual reporting
- Strengthen the role of public broadcasting in democracy
- Ensure that information reached every citizen, not just urban audiences
He believed that a public broadcaster must be trusted, calm, and fair — especially during difficult times.
Standing for Media Ethics
Throughout his life, A. Surya Prakash spoke openly about the responsibility that comes with journalism. He reminded journalists that freedom of speech also comes with ethical responsibility.
He believed that:
- Truth should never be compromised
- Media must not spread fear or misinformation
- Journalists must respect the Constitution and democratic values
For him, credibility was the greatest strength of any journalist.
A Thinker Who Educated Through Words
Beyond broadcasting, A. Surya Prakash is also known for his writing and public commentary. Through articles, essays, and speeches, he helped people understand complex issues like governance, democracy, and national interest in simple and clear language. He never aimed to impress — he aimed to inform and explain.
Honoured for a Life of Service
In recognition of his contribution to journalism and public broadcasting, A. Surya Prakash was awarded the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honours. This award reflects not just his career achievements, but the values he lived by integrity, independence, public service, and commitment to truth.
Why His Story Matters Today
In today’s world of instant news and viral headlines, A. Surya Prakash’s life reminds us of something important:
Journalism is not about being the loudest voice — it is about being the most responsible one.
His journey shows that when journalism is guided by honesty and purpose, it can strengthen democracy and build public trust.
A NobleStory of Responsibility and Truth
A. Surya Prakash did not chase fame. He chose principles. He did not follow trends. He followed the truth. His life is a NobleStory — not of glamour, but of quiet strength, ethical leadership, and service to the nation.