Ravish Kumar: From rural reporting to Ramon Magsaysay Award

“Namaskaar Main Ravish Kumar” – The quintessential introduction of a man whose truthful and ethical commitment to his work has transformed him into the definition of true journalism in India. Though most are aware of his achievements and fan of his bold speech, Ravish Kumar’s true success is hidden in his struggle of adapting to a modern dressing sense, traversing through kachha roads in rural areas, and his journey from a desk employee to NDTV’s prime-time anchor.

Early years

After completing a Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication from Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi, Ravish Kumar joined NDTV at the age of 22. Comparing his first day at the office to ‘NASA headquarters’, Kumar knew his professional struggles would be unique. A simple man from Patna who had minimal command over English speaking, modern dressing, and societal etiquettes.

Initially, Ravish Kumar was assigned to sorting letters at the reporter’s desk. He observed the art of television reporting every day and decided that language would not become a hurdle in his journey of making a difference.

The milestones

After almost 3 years of television reporting, NDTV gave him an individual show called Ravish ki Report in 2000.

After that, there was no looking back. The common man understood Ravish as a person who would often showcase the rural adversities of India through his unscathed speech in his classic formal shirt, red mic, and a cameraman.

For the next decade, Kumar was surrounded by recognized journalists such as Prannoy Roy and Rajdeep Sardesai along with a dedicated camera and television crew, which contributed to his holistic growth as an anchor, communicator, and public speaker.

Kumar’s wit, sarcastic commentary, and fact-based reporting opened new doors for Hindi television journalism. With audience recognition and hard work, he continued to unearth countless stories about villagers and rural people – all of which built up to his Prime Time spot in 2010.

In the last decade, brick-by-brick, Ravish Kumar has continuously challenged the fabric of mainstream media while being a part of it.

From political scandals and state or national elections to dedicated programs for water issues and unemployed youth (Naukri series), Kumar is arguably the only television anchor who urges people to stop watching television news and stay alert to Whatsapp University.

Ravish Kumar’s Awards and Recognitions

Truly, Ravish Kumar’s journey is an inspiration to every individual who dreams to make a difference!