News Broadcasting
Digital influencer Subhakar Mishra hops on to NDTV India
MUMBAI: Once on track to become an engineer, Shubhankar Mishra is now about to engineer something else entirely, a possible tectonic shift in Hindi TV journalism. The social media powerhouse with over 30 million followers across platforms is stepping into prime time on NDTV India this July, marking a move that blurs the lines between digital virality and newsroom credibility.
It’s a transition that has been years in the making. Inspired by a single film (3 Idiots) and armed with little more than conviction and curiosity, Shubhankar abandoned the engineering blueprint to follow the story instead of the script. From remote COVID-hit villages in Assam to the heartland’s neglected narratives, his reportage often arrived before traditional headlines did.
But what makes his journey remarkable isn’t just the reach, it’s the resonance. Whether it’s on Instagram Reels or in long-form Youtube documentaries, he’s told stories that institutions ignored until the scroll stopped. And now, as he walks into NDTV’s studio, he brings with him not just an audience, but a mission.
“I’m not here to be comfortable. I’m here to ask what needs to be asked,” says Mishra, explaining why NDTV India is his new home. “There aren’t many spaces left where you’re encouraged to challenge power and speak truth. NDTV is one of them.”
The new show promises to be viewer-centric, field-forward, and unapologetically direct, a mirror held up to Bharat, by someone who hasn’t just reported on it but lived it. Expect sharp questions, grounded voices, and a refusal to settle for status quo headlines.
“Shubhankar represents the kind of journalism this moment demands fearless, field-first, and deeply connected to the idea of India,” said NDTV CEO and editor-in-Chief Rahul Kanwal. “His following isn’t just numerical, it’s emotional. It’s trust.”
This move is also part of NDTV’s broader editorial revamp, a pivot toward immersive storytelling, digital convergence, and fresh editorial leadership. With voices like Shubhankar leading the way, NDTV is positioning itself as a platform for a “New India” one where journalism doesn’t just inform but inspires.
From algorithms to anchor chairs, Shubhankar Mishra’s next chapter might just redefine what news in Hindi prime time looks and sounds like. And if his 30 million-strong digital tribe is any indication, a lot of India is already tuned in.
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.
