BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM
Lucknow, the city of culture and conversations, recently witnessed a heartwarming reunion between journalism’s past and the nation’s present. Eshan Bharati, Media Advisor to Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India, paid a cordial visit to the city, where he was warmly received by veteran journalist Pradeep Kapoor.
Pradeep Kapoor, son of the late Bishan Kapoor, carries a proud journalistic legacy deeply intertwined with India’s political and media history. His father worked with the iconic Blitz, the firebrand weekly tabloid founded and edited by the legendary R. K. Karanjia, known for its fearless investigative journalism and bold political exposes. Following in his father’s footsteps, Pradeep Kapoor too contributed years of dedicated service to Blitz, earning respect for his sharp insight and integrity.
During Bharati’s visit, Kapoor shared a treasure trove of nostalgic memories, tales of his home in Hazratganj, which for decades has been a meeting point for some of India’s most influential political figures. Situated near the historic Coffee House, Kapoor’s residence has hosted towering personalities including former Prime Ministers Chandra Shekhar and V. P. Singh, former Chief Ministers N. D. Tiwari, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Kalyan Singh, and the legendary musician Naushad. They would often gather there, engaging in long, candid discussions that blended politics, culture, and intellect, a reflection of Lucknow’s timeless tehzeeb and tradition of dialogue.
As part of his visit, Eshan Bharati also met Shiv Saran Singh, President of the Press Club, and Najam Ehsan, Secretary of the UP Press Club. In a gesture of warmth and respect, Shiv Saran Singh honoured Bharati with a shawl, symbolizing the fraternity and continuity between generations of media professionals.
Bharati later toured the city, visiting Hazratganj and several other heritage sites, appreciating the charm and cultural grace that make Lucknow truly unique. The meeting between Eshan Bharati and Pradeep Kapoor was more than just a courtesy call, it was a revival of the city’s golden era of journalism and political camaraderie. It reminded all present that while times change, the spirit of Lucknow, where stories, intellect, and humanity merge, continues to shine bright.
At the Press Club, the gathering included notable media personalities: Mohammad Saif, Executive Editor of Arabian Times; Mohammad Tarique Saleem, Editor of Arabian Times; Mujeebur Rehman, Editor of Headlines24; Eshan Bharati; Najam Ehsan, Secretary of the Press Club; and Anwar Alam, senior journalist. The interaction reflected the enduring bond between the nation’s vibrant media fraternity and Lucknow’s rich journalistic heritage.
