Inauguration of the 140th Foundation Anniversary celebrations of Deepika, Malyalam Daily

I touch and salute the holy feet of Bharat Mata – the Most Powerful and the Most Merciful. Bharat Mata ki jai!

On the occasion of the 140th Foundation anniversary celebrations of the Malyalam Daily ‘Deepika’, the dignitaries sharing the dais with me, Hon’ble Governor of Kerala, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar Ji; Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri V. D. Satheesan Ji; Hon’ble Speaker of Kerala Legislative Assembly, Shri Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan Ji; Hon’ble Minister for Water Resources and Housing, Kerala, Shri Mons Joseph; Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Kottayam Constituency, Shri Francis George; Former Governor of West Bengal, Shri C.V. Ananda Bose Ji;
Archbishop of Kottayam, Shri Mar Mathew Moolakkatt Ji; Chairman Rashtra Deepika Limited, Shri Francis Cleetus Ji; Managing Director Rashtra Deepika Limited, Shri Michael Vettickatt Ji; Chief Editor Rashtra Deepika Limited, Dr. George Kudilil Ji and other dignitaries, Namaskar.

I am pleased to be here with you all for the inauguration of the 140th Foundation anniversary celebrations of the Malyalam daily ‘Deepika’ here in God’s own country-Kerala. One hundred and forty years is a remarkable journey of commitment, courage, credibility, and public service. Very few newspapers in India can proudly claim such a rich and enduring legacy. Over generations, Deepika has become much more than a newspaper. It has been a trusted companion to families, a voice of social conscience, and a beacon of truth and values in public life.

This year marks the 140th year of its foundation and it is an occasion to rededicate itself to the originalgoals set by its founding fathers. Led by Fr. Emmanuel Nidhiry, founder-chief editor and noted social reformer, and backed by the Catholic Church in Kerala, the newspaper was founded in 1887 with noble and visionary goals. These included safeguarding people’s rights and upholding truth, justice, freedom, and equality across communities and religions. These ideals brought about a new vision and dimension tothe then nascent journalism in Kerala.

Deepika also played an important role in passing on important information during the freedom struggle indifferent parts of our Nation. Scores of informative and inspiring articles were published in thenewspaper, which motivated many to join the freedom movement.  It is commendable that Deepika contributed appreciably to our freedom movement. It is also noteworthy that the newspaperstill steadily abides by righteous and dignified principles in its columns.

Today, as India marches forward with confidence and aspiration under the leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the role of responsible media institutions becomes even more significant. The Prime Minister has repeatedly highlighted the role of innovation, digital transformation, national development, and informed citizens in building a strong, self-reliant India. The media has a vital responsibility in carrying these ideas to society with balance, integrity, and commitment to truth.

The role of newspapers in a democracy cannot be overstated. Journalism is more about shaping informed citizens, nurturing public dialogue, and defending the values of justice, truth, and human dignity. A responsible media institution acts as a bridge between people and power, between tradition and progress. Newspapers also have a responsibility to report stories of hope, innovation and positive social change. Constructive journalism inspires confidence in society, encourages collective responsibility and motivates citizens to contribute towards nation-building. By highlighting compassion, scientific progress, community service, environmental protection, and human achievement, newspapers become powerful agents of social change.

I particularly appreciate the contribution of Deepika in promoting social harmony, education, culture, and constructive public discourse. Its commitment to language, literature, and community life has enriched Kerala’s public sphere for generations. As we celebrate this milestone, we must also acknowledge media challenges such as misinformation, declining trust, commercial pressures, and rapid digital change. Yet every challenge also presents an opportunity.  Institutions with strong foundations and public trust can emerge even stronger by embracing innovation while preserving core values. I am confident that Deepika will continue to inspire young journalists and uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.

On this occasion, I congratulate the management, staff, contributors, advertisers, distributors, and loyal readers who have sustained this institution for fourteen decades. May the 140th anniversary renew the commitment to fearless journalism, social responsibility, and service to humanity. I wish Deepika many more years of success, relevance, and excellence.

Jai Hind!

Long Live Mother Bharat!

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