News Broadcasting
BBC radio icon John Peel passes away
MUMBAI: One of the giants of British radio BBC disc jockey John Peel, whose nightly Radio One programme is credited with launching the careers of British bands including New Order and Joy Division passed away from al heart attack.
He was 65 years old..Peel is credited with nurturing musicians and introducing listeners to new sounds.
Radio One controller Andy Parfitt said: “John Peel was a broadcasting legend. I am deeply saddened by his death as are all who work at Radio 1. Hopeful bands all over the world would send their demo tapes to John knowing that he really cared. His commitment and passion for new music only grew stronger over the years.
“John’s influence has towered over the development of popular music for nearly four decades and his contribution to modern music and music culture is immeasurable..
BBC DG Mark Thompson said, “He was one of the giants of radio and will be missed, not just by everyone at the BBC, but by millions of listeners of all ages.” Peel also presented a weekly BBC World Service music programme.
Meanwhile Kershaw, a DJ on BBC Radio 3, was quoted in a report saying that Peel’s schedule at Radio 1 had been affecting his health. Kershaw wrote an article in The Independent saying that the last time he saw Peel, he looked absolutely worn out. Peel had informed him that his Radio 1 slot had been moved and that the combination of that and Home Truths (his Radio 4 show) was taking a toll. Kershaw added that Peel felt he had been marginalised.
Peel broadcast on Radio 1 three times a week in the 10 pm-midnight timeslot until July. He was moved to the 11pm -1am slot
BBC World Service director Nigel Chapman said, ” He was a very popular, pioneering presenter who broadened the horizons of generations of global listeners. He was a tireless enthusiast for new music in all its forms and his passion and warmth touched the lives of millions around the world. A great advocate of the World Service, he played a key role in our recent 70th Anniversary celebrations. His innovative and iconic style will be greatly missed.”
News Broadcasting
Kamlesh Singh receives Haldi Ghati Award from MMCF
India Today Group editor honoured for three decades of journalism at Udaipur ceremony.
MUMBAI- Kamlesh Singh just turned a lifetime of sharp words into a shiny shield because when journalism wakes up a society, even the Maharana of Mewar wants to pin a medal on it.
The Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF) conferred its prestigious Haldi Ghati Award on Kamlesh Singh, a senior editor at the India Today Group, during a ceremony in Udaipur on 15 March 2026. The national award, instituted in 1981-82, recognises “work of permanent value that initiates an awakening in society through the medium of journalism.”
Singh, who leads several editorial initiatives including Aaj Tak Radio, the Teen Taal community and The Lallantop, was presented the honour by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Managing Trustee of MMCF. The citation highlighted his three decades of contributions to Indian media, innovations in digital journalism, mentoring young reporters, and his popular podcast persona “Tau” on Teen Taal, which fosters thoughtful public discourse.
The Haldi Ghati Award, named after the historic Battle of Haldighati symbolising valour and resilience, is one of four national awards given annually by MMCF. Past recipients include Tavleen Singh, Piyush Pandey and Raj Chengappa.
Other honourees this year included Padma Vibhushan Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Vedamurti Devvrat Rekhe, Treeman of India Marimuthu Yoganathan, Vir Chakra Capt Rizwan Malik, and US-based researcher Molly Emma Aitken, who received the Colonel James Tod Award for contributions to understanding Mewar’s spirit and values.
In an era where headlines often shout louder than substance, the MMCF quietly reminded everyone that real journalism isn’t about noise, it’s about the quiet, persistent work that stirs society awake, one thoughtful story at a time.
