PM releases Stamp honouring HT's 100 years

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently unveiled a commemorative postage stamp celebrating the 100-year journey of Hindustan Times (HT) in New Delhi.

The event marked a significant milestone in Indian journalism, paying homage to a legacy intertwined with the nation’s history and evolution.

Congratulating the institution on its centenary, PM Modi remarked: "Completing the journey of a 100 years is a historic accomplishment. I congratulate everyone who has been a part of this enterprise, who has fought adversity, but remained steadfast."

Shobhana Bhartia, Chairperson of HT Media Ltd. and Editorial Director of Hindustan Times, expressed her gratitude, stating: "I thank the Prime Minister from the bottom of my heart for releasing the commemorative postage stamp. This is a milestone in our long journey, and we know that our mission is far from over."

A Legacy of Nationalism and Excellence

Founded by Mahatma Gandhi on September 15, 1924, Hindustan Times was conceived as a voice for India’s freedom movement. Initially supported financially by the Akalis, and later by stalwarts like Lala Lajpat Rai and Madan Mohan Malviya, it was eventually handed over to GD Birla at Gandhi’s request.

During its formative years, HT chronicled the independence struggle and the birth of the Republic, serving as a crucible for ideas and debates that shaped modern India. Over the decades, its pages have featured writings from icons such as Subhas Chandra Bose, Jawaharlal Nehru, Martin Luther King Jr., and MS Swaminathan, reflecting its unparalleled stature.

From a nationalist daily, Hindustan Times evolved into a global media powerhouse, encompassing digital platforms, regional editions, and business publications like Mint. Yet, its core mission has remained unchanged: delivering news fearlessly, accurately, and thoughtfully.

A Glimpse into History

Before the stamp release, PM Modi toured the HT@100 exhibit, which vividly captured the institution’s journey alongside India’s transformation. Impressed by the showcase, he remarked: "I saw the editions printed on the day of independence and the day India became a republic. The words of icons like Subhas Chandra Bose, Martin Luther King Jr., and Atal Bihari Vajpayee have illuminated your newspaper."

The Commemorative Stamp

The postage stamp, designed by renowned artist Sankha Samanta, encapsulates HT’s centenary journey. It features two editions of the newspaper: the 1924 issue, authentically restored from microfilms, and the 2024 edition, representing modernity and progress.

The stamp’s design prominently incorporates HT’s tagline, “First Voice, Last Word,” symbolizing its steadfast commitment to truth and simplicity. The iconic blue of the HT brand adds a touch of vibrancy, reflecting values championed by Gandhi and upheld by HT over a century.

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