Pune: Veteran Journalist Ashok Agarwal Passes Away at 60
Viman Nagar, 9th September 2024: Ashok Agarwal, Founder and Chief Editor of the Hindi newspaper Dainik Bharat Diary, passed away on Monday following a cardiac arrest in Pune. He was 60.
His death marks a significant loss for Hindi journalism, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill. Known for his fearless and unbiased journalism, Agarwal dedicated his life to journalism, upholding the highest standards of integrity and public service. He is survived by his wife, two sons, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.
Throughout his career, Agarwal championed the cause of honest and combative journalism, and his work inspired many across the Hindi journalism community in Pune and beyond. His fearless approach to reporting was seen as the true voice of society, as he consistently brought important issues to light. His contributions are remembered fondly by fellow journalists, intellectuals, social activists, and politicians across the country, all of whom have expressed their condolences.
Agarwal founded Dainik Bharat Diary on August 8, 1997. The paper has since become a key pillar of Hindi journalism in Pune, serving as a platform for the marginalized and underrepresented. The newspaper’s first issue was inaugurated by the late film actor Kader Khan, and over the years, it has built a reputation for its commitment to public interest journalism. Each year, Dainik Bharat Diary celebrates its anniversary with events featuring Bollywood stars, cementing its status in both journalism and popular culture.
In 2024, Agarwal introduced the “Sir Kader Khan Jeevan Gaurav Award” in honor of the late actor. The first recipient was to be film star Jeetendra Kapoor, and the award ceremony was scheduled for September 14 at the Lokmanya Tilak Smriti Mandir in Pune, with Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar and state higher education minister Chandrakant Patil set to present the award. However, following Agarwal’s unexpected demise, the event has been canceled.
Agarwal had been admitted to a private hospital two days prior to his passing after complaining of chest pains. Despite receiving treatment, he passed away on Monday evening. His sudden death has sent shockwaves through the journalism community, political leaders, and his readers in Pune.
In the wake of his passing, Agarwal’s son, Vishal Ashok Agarwal, who had been serving as deputy editor, will take over the editorial responsibilities of Dainik Bharat Diary. Vishal, who has been closely following in his father’s footsteps, is poised to continue the legacy of the publication and uphold the values his father instilled in the newspaper.
“He was a dedicated social worker who tirelessly served the Agarwal community and always helped those in need. As a senior journalist, he was known for his relentless fight for justice,” said Kavediya Nathmal, Secretary of the Yervada Vyapari Association.
