Rajat Sharma, a name that resonates with authority and integrity in the Indian media landscape, is not just a seasoned Indian journalist but also a formidable television personality and businessperson. With a career spanning several decades, Rajat Sharma has not only become a household name in the dynamic Indian journalism industry but has also left an indelible mark on the field of journalism in India.
Rajat Sharma, India TV’s Editor-In-Chief and Chairman, has become the most-followed TV news personality in the world on Twitter with 10.8 million followers.
A Game-Changing Talk Show: ‘Aap Ki Adalat’ by Rajat Sharma
Rajat Sharma’s career reached a turning point when he conceptualized and hosted “Aap Ki Adalat” in 1992, a talk show that became a household name in India. With its unique format of grilling prominent personalities with tough questions, the show not only garnered immense popularity but also catapulted Sharma into the limelight. His sharp interviewing skills and fearless approach earned him a reputation as a fearless journalist unafraid to ask the tough questions.
- Also known as AKA, Aap ki Adalat’s first episode was released on March 14, 1993, shot with Lalu Yadav, the former chief minister of Bihar.
- Rajat Sharma’s special interviews include interviews with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Salman Khan, Bhagwant Mann, Shashi Tharoor, and many more renowned and esteemed personalities.
- Aap Ki Adalat host, Rajat Sharma invites famous personalities from different industries to interrogate them about controversies surrounding their personal and professional lives.
Rajat Sharma – Background and Personal details
| Name | Rajat Sharma |
| DOB | 18th February, 1957 |
| POB | New Delhi, India |
| Alma Mater | Sanatan Dharm Middle School Ramjas School Shri Ram College of Commerce, University of Delhi |
| Occupation | Journalist, Television Presenter, Businessperson |
| Spouse | Ritu Dhawan |
- Born in a poor household in Sabji Mandi, New Delhi, Rajat has gone through the hardships of life at an early age.
- Rajat Sharma’s family has struggled with basic needs such as running water and electricity.
Unknown Facts About Rajat Sharma
- Rajat Sharma pursued a law degree alongside his journalism career, showcasing his multifaceted talents.
- He is actively involved in various charitable initiatives, supporting causes like education and healthcare.
- Rajat Sharma’s reputation as a no-nonsense interviewer is well-deserved. His iconic interviews include high-profile personalities like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Narendra Modi.
- While studying at Shri Ram College of Commerce, Rajat was helped by a senior to pay his college fees. That senior is none other than the former Finance Minister of India, Arun Jaitley.
- In 1975, an emergency was imposed, and Rajat Sharma spent 11 unforgettable years in Tihar Jail.
- In 1977, he was elected as a General Secretary at DUSU elections.
- He set up a production house with his wife, Ritu, Independent News Service (INS). Independent News Service (INS) is the parent company that owns India TV.
Career Trajectory
- Began his journalism career with Onlooker as a Trainee reporter. He wrote his first story for the Onlooker, a fortnightly magazine, and was paid Rs. 300 for it 1982.
- In 1984, he was promoted to Chief of Bureau and Editor in 1985.
- He began working as an Editor at Sunday Observer in 1987.
- Rajat worked as an Editor of The Daily from 1989 to 1992.
Awards and Accolades
Rajat Sharma was awarded Padma Bhushan in 2015, the third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India. Apart from this, below is the list of other awards won by him:
- The Indian Television Academy (ITA) Award for Best News Anchor 2001.
- The News Television Award for Best Anchor for “Aap Ki Adalat.”
- Most Influential Indian Award
- Media Icon 2022 from India Award
Rajat Sharma’s leadership qualities extend beyond the realms of journalism. He has actively contributed to the growth and development of the media industry in India. Under his guidance, India TV has grown from strength to strength, maintaining its position as a trusted source of news and information. Rajat Sharma’s life and career are an inspiration for aspiring journalists and leaders in the media industry, and his legacy will continue to shine brightly in the annals of Indian journalism.
Read More: From Tata Sons to Tata Group: Ratan Tata’s Storied Leadership
