Dr. Sonali Gupta
What can a boy who loses his parents and all but one sibling before turning nine, starts his education at eleven, and finds himself penniless at twenty-six do when he is driven by the intense desire to start a newspaper in his home-state? He can pursue his dreams and become a legend who publishes the first newspaper, establishes the first printing press, and earns the title of “Father of Journalism” or Baba-e-Sahafat in J&K. On June 24, 2023, Jammu and Kashmir celebrates the momentous occasion of the 99th anniversary of the launch of the state’s first newspaper and printing press, it is impossible to overlook the monumental contribution of Lala Mulk Raj Saraf, a man of limited means who defied all odds to become a doyen of journalism and an institution in himself.
Lala Mulk Raj Saraf was initiated into active journalism while working for Bande Mataram, the famous daily newspaper started by Lala Lajpat Rai in Lahore. He was inspired by the powerful personality and equally powerful pen of Lala Lajpat Rai. But the awakening and bustle in Lahore, reminded him of the helplessness of the people of his own state which had no such newspaper to kindle the flame of nationalism and public service. He was warned by well-wishers that any attempt to bring out a newspaper in the state might be regarded as an hostile act against the State. Yet, Saraf bade goodbye to his job in Lahore and settled down in Jammu and set about working towards making his dream a reality. To make ends meet, he worked as an accountant during the day and spent hours in the public library, finding ways to make conditions favorable for a newspaper in the state.
Securing permission and funds to start the newspaper proved to be a Herculean task, but Saraf persevered. After years of relentless efforts, he finally launched Ranbir, the first newspaper of J&K, on June 24, 1924. Ranbir – which literally means “knight of the battle field”, became a relentless crusader voicing the grievances of the people and championing social reforms. Guided by the philosophy “Facts are sacred, comments free”, Ranbir gained the reputation for “absolutely trustworthiness” and whatever was published in it bore the stamp of authenticity. Ranbir carried out campaigns against several social evils of the time. Suppression of infanticide, abolition of untouchability and the forced labour, prevention of infant marriage and removal of many other social evils formed chief plank of the Ranbir and resulted in the enactment of several reforms during the regime of Maharaja Hari Singh.
Saraf had to face trials and tribulations including confinement, banishment, security demands and even threats of closure for his nationalistic views and objective reporting which were hard to digest by those motivated by other considerations. During the partition of India in 1947, when Ranbir vehemently opposed attempts to keep Jammu & Kashmir aloof from India, the former Prime Minister of J&K infamously ordered to “Starve Mr. Saraf into submission.” The captivating saga of the many battles he waged and won as a fearless journalist has been vividly captured in his autobiography, “Fifty years as a Journalist”.
Despite decades of turmoil in J&K, Lala Mulk Raj Saraf’s life and principles serve as a reminder that that a conscientious worker in any walk of life is bound to suffer the wrath of authority, the anger of an ignorant public, or the obstinacy of both. June 24, 1924 is remembered as a Red Letter Day in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. The vision of free press that was set in motion nearly a century ago has sustained through the turmoil that J&K has endured. This is also a day to salute the spirit of journalists who have upheld their scared duty through turbulent times.
“The power of the press is neither a gift bestowed on us by any capitalist nor an estate conferred us by any government. It is a trust placed in our hands by the people and to use it honestly is our conscientious duty” – These words of Lala Mulk Raj Saraf, along with his life story, serves as a timeless inspiration, even in contemporary times. In an era where success is often equated with material wealth and privilege, Saraf’s journey reminds us that limited means should never hinder one’s pursuit of purpose. His story reminds us that determination, passion, and an unwavering belief in one’s dreams can overcome any obstacles, regardless of one’s starting point.
Today, as we navigate the complexities of our modern world, we are surrounded by individuals who, like Saraf, face various challenges and constraints. Yet, his story shows us that it is precisely in these moments of adversity that true resilience and greatness can emerge. Saraf’s legacy encourages us to channel our inner strength, pursue our passions, and work diligently towards our goals, regardless of the resources at our disposal. As we commemorate ninety-nine years of journalism in Jammu and Kashmir, let us celebrate the indomitable spirit of individuals like Lala Mulk Raj Saraf, who prove that limited means are not limitations, but catalysts for extraordinary achievements. May his story continue to inspire us to embrace our purpose, follow our dreams, and make a lasting impact, regardless of the circumstances we find ourselves in.
(The author is a Trustee of the JDGD Saraf Trust)
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