Padma Bhushan Awardee and Journalist TJS George Dies, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Satire

TJS George, a prominent figure in Indian journalism and a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, has passed away at the age of 97. His death occurred on Friday in a Bengaluru hospital. Throughout his life, George was celebrated for his sharp wit, satire, and insightful commentary. He served as the Editorial Advisor for The New Indian Express and was widely recognized for his weekly column, Point of View, which he penned for a quarter of a century. George’s career in journalism began in 1950 at the Free Press Journal in Bombay and continued through various esteemed organizations, including the International Press Institute, The Searchlight, and the Far Eastern Economic Review. He also founded Asiaweek. Notably, George was the first editor in independent India to be imprisoned for writing about freedom of expression. He was the author of numerous books, including biographies and his memoir, Ghoshayathra (The Procession). He received the Padma Bhushan in 2011 and the Swadeshabhimani Award in 2017. Political figures, including the Chief Ministers of Karnataka and Kerala, mourned his passing, recognizing his lasting impact on the field of journalism.