From Kolkata’s Udanta Martand To Digital Age: Hindi Journalism Marks 200 Years

Pearl Doshi - Gujarat Bureau May 30, 2026 1,150 Views

India marked 200 years of Hindi journalism on May 30, 2026, commemorating the launch of Udanta Martand in Kolkata in 1826. The bicentenary celebrations included exhibitions of rare archival newspapers, a commemorative stamp release, and a seminar at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), highlighting the enduring legacy of Hindi journalism.

Origins Of Hindi Journalism

The journey began on May 30, 1826, when Udanta Martand (“The Rising Sun”) was published from Kolkata by Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla. It was the first Hindi-language newspaper, printed in Devanagari script, with the motto “Hindustaniyon ke hit ke het” (for the welfare of Indians). Despite its pioneering role, the paper ceased publication in 1827 due to financial difficulties.

Bicentenary Celebrations

To mark the milestone, IGNCA in New Delhi hosted a two-day seminar and exhibition in collaboration with the Madhavrao Sapre Memorial Newspaper Museum and Research Institute, Bhopal. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia released a commemorative stamp and bicentenary volume, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message emphasized that Hindi journalism’s 200-year journey would inspire future generations of journalists and researchers.

Exhibition Of Rare Newspapers

The exhibition showcased rare cover pages and archival material from 19th and 20th-century Hindi journals, including Malwa Akhbar, Akhbar Gwalior, Samachar Sudhavarshan, Kavivachansudha, Hindipradip, Hind Kesari, Saraswati, Vigyan, Vishwamitra, and Aryavarta. These records highlighted the evolution of Hindi journalism from colonial times to the independence era.

Legacy And Significance

Hindi journalism has grown into a vast media ecosystem, shaping public opinion and cultural identity across India. From the modest beginnings of Udanta Martand with just 500 copies, Hindi newspapers today reach millions, reflecting the language’s central role in India’s democratic discourse.

Bicentenary Highlights