Rahul Kanwal Bids Farewell to India Today Group After 22 Years

Rahul Kanwal, one of India’s most prominent journalists and newsroom leaders, is leaving the India Today Group after a remarkable 22-year journey. His departure marks the end of an era for the media powerhouse, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the editorial direction, building influential IPs, and leading impactful news coverage.
In a heartfelt note, Kalli Purie, Vice Chairperson of India Today Group, lauded Kanwal’s contributions, describing his career as the “quintessential India Today Group narrative”—an extraordinary journey of organic growth, limitless opportunities, and a meteoric rise that benefited both him and the organization.
“Over the last twelve years, we’ve worked closely together, built formidable teams, created powerful editorial IPs, and traversed the length and breadth of our incredible country, collecting memories that will last a lifetime. Our newsroom is the envy of the media ecosystem,” she wrote, highlighting his immense impact on the group’s editorial success.
While Kanwal’s next move remains undisclosed, Purie emphasized the changing landscape of news, with AI-driven innovations opening new frontiers for content creators. She reassured that the institution remains strong, thanks to Kanwal’s leadership and the mentorship he provided to the next generation of journalists.
“He has helped shape our growth story, and our institution is stronger for it. He has mentored a strong second line, which is locked and loaded for what comes next. It’s now your turn to shine,” she stated, addressing the team he leaves behind.
Kanwal, who was serving as news director at India Today, has anchored some of India’s most-watched news programs and led the newsroom through critical events in the country’s history.
Born on September 14, 1980, in Maharashtra, he pursued a program in International Broadcast Journalism at Cardiff University. Among his key contributions at India Today Group were the establishment of an Anti-Fake News War Room, dedicated to combating misinformation, and the creation of an Open Source Intelligence Desk.
While his next destination is yet to be announced, Purie’s note reflected confidence that Kanwal would carry a piece of India Today Group with him wherever he goes.
His departure follows a trend where veteran journalists are exploring new opportunities beyond traditional media, leveraging their expertise in innovative digital-first formats.