A fearless and outspoken critic of right-wing extremism and Hindu nationalism, known for her bold journalism and advocacy for marginalized communities.
Gauri Lankesh was a renowned Indian journalist, activist, and editor who fearlessly spoke out against right-wing Hindu extremism, caste-based discrimination, and championed women's rights. Through her writing and activism, she left an indelible mark on Indian society, earning her the Anna Politkovskaya Award for her courageous stance.
Born on January 29, 1962, Gauri Lankesh hailed from a Kannada Lingayat family in Bangalore, Karnataka. Her father, P. Lankesh, was a poet-journalist who founded the Kannada language weekly tabloid, Lankesh Patrike. Gauri's early exposure to her father's journalistic endeavors instilled in her a passion for storytelling and social justice.
She began her career as a journalist with The Times of India in Bangalore, later moving to Delhi with her husband, Chidanand Rajghatta. After returning to Bangalore, she worked as a correspondent for the Sunday magazine for nine years. Following her father's demise in 2000, Gauri worked for the Eenadus Telugu television channel in Delhi, accumulating 16 years of experience as a journalist.
Upon her father's passing, Gauri and her younger brother, Indrajit, were approached by the publisher of Lankesh Patrike, Mani, who convinced them to continue the publication. Gauri took over as the editor, while Indrajit handled the business affairs. However, their partnership was short-lived, as ideological differences emerged in 2001, culminating in a public fallout in February 2005 over a report about a Naxalite attack on policemen.
Gauri Lankesh's unwavering commitment to social justice and her unrelenting criticism of right-wing Hindu extremism made her a target for intimidation and harassment. She continued to write and speak out against caste-based discrimination, women's rights, and the marginalization of minority communities.
Her weekly publication, Gauri Lankesh Patrike, became a platform for her courageous brand of journalism, earning her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Anna Politkovskaya Award.
On September 5, 2017, Gauri Lankesh's life was tragically cut short when she was assassinated outside her home in Rajarajeshwari Nagar. Her murder sent shockwaves across India, with many condemning the brutal act as a silencing of a fearless voice.
Gauri Lankesh's legacy continues to inspire journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens to stand up against oppression, discrimination, and injustice. Her courage in the face of adversity serves as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and equitable society.
81 Years Old
Founded the Maharashtra Blind Faith Eradication Committee to promote scientific thinking and challenge superstition, fighting against harmful practices and promoting critical inquiry.
