News Broadcasting
Star News restores ‘Poll Khol’ on popular demand
MUMBAI: Elections are over and even the political heat has died down, but the show Poll Khol launched by Star News to bring out the satirical elements of the elections, with the irrepressible Shekhar Suman as host, is here to remain. The show that had become an instant hit with the viewers with its razor sharp commentary on Indian politics is on its way back on popular demand.
According to an official release, Poll Khol’s second run will be premiered on 5 June, 2004. The show will air every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 pm.
The show will cover various aspects that are of interest to the general public. The big difference will be in terms of content, as it would cover a wider variety of issues. Poll Khol will retain its unique format, however this time going beyond just politics and politicians, said the release.
“Poll Khol has continued right through the elections as the undisputed No.1 & the most watched show across news channels. While the wit, sarcasm and satire in Shekhar’s inimitable style will continue, the show will go beyond politics & politicians in its second innings”, said Star News editor & director of news Uday Shankar. “And we are convinced that Poll Khol will continue its winning streak.” he added.
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.
