Vartha Bharati | The name speaks a lot about the content and the contentment in transformation | A True vision is achieved while it is envisioned | Global TV

NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044

• Leader is the one who walk the talk and talk the walk | He will get along with others and get them along with him with a vision to achieve a shared wisdom | Global TV

Abdussalam Puthige is a distinguished journalist, acclaimed author, an intellectual par excellence, and a simple human being to the core. He could craft a niche media exclusively being an island of excellence and thoughtful contemplation. He is well recognised in media for equity, equality and social justice across in India and beyond. Known for his sharp intellect, balanced viewpoints, and commitment to truth, he continues to inspire both budding journalists and seasoned professionals alike.

Puthige’s contributions transcend traditional journalism, touching upon literature, socio-political discourse, and community development. He was born and raised in an environment that nurtured a love for learning and integrity, Abdussalam Puthige demonstrated an early inclination toward intellectual pursuits.

His formative years were marked by curiosity and a desire to understand societal dynamics. This curiosity eventually led him to the field of journalism, where he found a platform to articulate his thoughts and influence public opinion. One of Puthige’s most remarkable achievements is the establishment of Vartha Bharati, a leading Kannada daily newspaper. Founded in 2003, the publication quickly garnered a reputation for its independent stance, high journalistic standards, and dedication to covering issues often overlooked by mainstream media.

The Birth of Vartha Bharati

The newspaper’s editorial reflect his commitment to ethical journalism. Unlike many publications that succumb to sensationalism, Vartha Bharati maintains a focus on accuracy, fairness, and public interest. This approach has earned it a loyal readership and numerous accolades, including recognition from media watchdogs and civil society organizations.

Champion of Ethical Journalism

Abdussalam Puthige’s contributions to ethical journalism extend beyond his role as an editor. He has consistently advocated for journalistic integrity in an era marked by misinformation and media manipulation. His writings and speeches emphasize the importance of fact-checking, unbiased reporting, and the role of the press as the fourth pillar of democracy. His commitment to these principles has made him a mentor to countless young journalists.

Through workshops, lectures, and one-on-one mentoring, he has instilled in the next generation of media professionals a deep respect for truth and accountability. He has played a major role in elevating Kannada journalism to national prominence. By setting standards for ethical reporting and editorial excellence, he has inspired journalists to pursue their craft with integrity.

Under his leadership, Vartha Bharati has grown well in independent journalism and proved that regional a media can be both impactful and economically viable at the same time. His works show that the language is not a barrier to quality journalism but a bridge to connect with diverse audiences. Looking ahead, he remains committed to his mission of fostering a more informed and equitable society. He continues to explore new avenues for storytelling, leveraging digital platforms to reach a broader audience.

Puthige’s vision for the future of media is one that embraces technological advancements while staying rooted in ethical principles. He believes that the media must evolve to meet the changing needs of society without compromising on its core values. Over the years, Puthige’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. These honours are a reflection of his impact on journalism, literature, and social advocacy. He remains humble, viewing these achievements as milestones and turning points rather than end points.

His legacy is not merely defined by the accolades he has received but by the lives he has touched and the positive change he has inspired. Puthige’s work has empowered countless individuals to think critically, speak out against injustice, and contribute to the betterment of society.

Literary Contributions and Thought Leadership

In addition to his work in journalism, Abdussalam Puthige is a prolific author. His books span a range of topics, from socio-political issues to philosophical reflections. These works showcase his ability to blend analytical objectivity with profound insights, offering readers a nuanced understanding of complex subjects.

His writings explore themes of justice, peace and harmony. The responsibilities of individuals and institutions in fostering a just society is often highlighted in Puthige’s literary contributions. His works not only enriched public discourse but have also served as valuable resources for students, scholars, and policymakers.

Advocate for Social Justice and Harmony

A staunch advocate for social justice, Abdussalam Puthige has used his platform to highlight issues affecting marginalized communities. His reporting and editorial work have consistently championed the rights of the underprivileged, challenging societal norms that perpetuate inequality. Puthige’s commitment to communal harmony is particularly noteworthy. In a time when divisive narratives often dominate media coverage, he has remained a steadfast voice for unity and understanding. His efforts to promote dialogue and mutual respect among diverse communities have earned him widespread respect and admiration.

His uncompromising stance on truth and justice has occasionally made him a target of criticism and intimidation. However, he faced these challenges with remarkable patience and grace. Puthige’s ability to persevere in the face of adversity is an inspiration to many. His power of conviction stay thoroughly true even when confronted with formidable obstacles.

Champion of Free Speech and Democracy

One of Puthige’s most admirable qualities is his unwavering commitment to free speech and democratic principles. In an era where dissent is often stifled, he has consistently championed the right to express diverse viewpoints. His work has often challenged powerful establishments, earning him both accolades and adversaries. His fearless approach to journalism is rooted in his belief that a healthy democracy thrives on informed citizens. He has often emphasized the need for media to act as a watchdog, holding those in power accountable.

A Visionary Leader in Media

What sets Abdussalam Puthige apart as a media leader is his forward-thinking approach. He has consistently embraced innovation, recognizing the need for media to adapt to changing technological and societal landscapes. Vartha Bharati has effectively steered digital transformation and expanded its reach and influence while maintaining its core values.

Puthige’s strategic vision has positioned Vartha Bharati as a trendsetter in digital journalism. By leveraging multimedia content, and data-driven reporting, the publication has remained relevant and impactful in an increasingly competitive media environment. His legacy is not limited to his professional achievements. His values, vision, and dedication continue to inspire those who have had the privilege of working with him. He has set a benchmark for journalism to become a defender of democracy, and a platform for the voiceless.

A Luminary in Media and Society

Abdussalam Puthige’s journey is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of truth. His leadership in journalism, literature, and social discourse continue to shape public opinion and inspiring positive change. As an ethical journalist, and compassionate human being, Abdussalam Puthige continues to be a guiding light for many in the media landscape. His work serves as a reminder of the power of the press to inform, inspire, and transform society for the better. In an age where trust in media is often questioned, figures like Puthige stand as a testimony to the enduring value of principled journalism. His story is one of courage, perseverance, and an unyielding belief in the power of words to make a difference.

Academic and Literary Excellence

Born on April 2, 1964, Puthige’s educational background includes a B.A. in History from the University of Madras and legal studies at SDM Law College, Mangalore. He also holds a PG Diploma in Human Rights from the Indian Institute of Human Rights, New Delhi.

As an author, he has penned numerous thought-provoking works, including Towards Performing Dawah, published by the International Council for Islamic Information in Leicester, UK. His translation endeavours have made significant literary and religious texts accessible to Kannada readers, including eight editions of Kannadadalli Quran Anuvada and its accompanying app with text and audio.

Puthige’s contributions to journalism and literature have earned him prestigious accolades, including the Transparency International Award in 2009 for promoting truth and journalistic values. In 2024, he was honored with the Sandesha Media Award and the Karnataka Media Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award, cementing his legacy as a media luminary.

Change within while looking for Respect elsewhere

He asserts that society must recognize that the true representatives of Islam and the Muslim community are those who promote love, peace, service, empathy, and coexistence. He calls for side lining voices that breed division and negativity, ensuring that a positive and authentic image of the community is projected.

Puthige also underscores the need to remind the Muslim community of its real priorities. He believes it is essential to prevent the community from being swept away by emotional disputes and controversies. Instead, he advocates for preparing individuals to contribute meaningfully to various fields such as education, service, literature, media, administration, and business.

According to Puthige, these sectors hold the key to a life of dignity and respect for members of the community. He stresses that a shift in focus toward constructive pursuits will pave the way for greater growth and progress.

Furthermore, Puthige’s narrative highlights the necessity for active involvement in fields that empower individuals and strengthen the community’s social and intellectual fabric. He believes that this engagement is essential for ensuring that the Muslim community thrives with honour and respect in a diverse society.

Puthige presents a vision of a community rooted in its core values while actively contributing to societal development. “Media must not merely inform but enlighten society by bridging divides,” he often asserts, emphasizing the need for unbiased narratives in today’s polarized world. Reflecting on his work at Vartha Bharati, he firmly believes that upholding journalistic integrity is non-negotiable, even when it entails significant challenges.

“I see journalism as a tool for societal transformation,” Puthige explains, highlighting his advocacy for interfaith harmony and community empowerment.

His approach champions fearless reporting, ethical storytelling, and a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices. These guiding principles, he notes, are critical for maintaining democratic values and fostering meaningful conversations in an ever-evolving media landscape.

A Multilingual Resource Person

A true linguist, Puthige is proficient in Kannada, Urdu, English, Hindi, Beary, and Tulu, and can converse in Malayalam, Tamil, and Nawayat. His passion for languages extends to Arabic and Persian, which he continues to study diligently. His reputation as a leading resource person has seen him conduct media workshops across India and abroad, where he shares his insights on media ethics, communication strategies, and cultural understanding.

Understanding the importance of professional training for journalists from underrepresented communities, Puthige and his colleagues launched a one-year diploma course in Kannada journalism. It underscored his commitment to building a more inclusive media landscape. His desire to see more marginalized voices in mainstream journalism remains an ongoing aspiration. His dedication to representing the voiceless, challenging communal biases, and promoting social equity through professional journalism continues through Vartha Bharathi.He is a path breaker and a trendsetter. He shows the world about media can achieve when driven by the principles of justice, inclusivity, and truth.

Preserving the Pulse of Past, Present and Future with Global TV Contemporary Media Archives | Global TV

NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044

The world is bombarded 24X7 with relentless flow of information. Most of them are fake and the rest of them are irrelevant. Not even one percent of the regular flow information are important or relevant for the people who come across them. What we see around looks like someone is governing the conduct of the universe in wrong directions. We need to do something sensible to define and design our collective future and should do something different to make it meaningful.  

We should understand the simple fact that the crowd is chaotic and it cannot do anything meaningful for themselves, being crowded and stampeded. Preservation of a shared way of life is more or less difficult until we harness the power of common sense and understand that there are no one thinking about our wellbeing other than we ourselves. The collective wisdom of a society is to know it and to take steps at least to think about what can be done for everyone’s advantage.  

There is one corrigendum to present on the about content. It is about the conduct of the universe. It may be true that the world is controlled by various forces but it is very evident that the universe is governed by universal forces that are neither bad nor good as such. We are together travelling towards a collective future that we are manifesting together. There is a universal force that govern the universe in right direction. There is God particles visibly seen in the world around.  

Let us proceed our manifestation here with that corrigendum and mixed response or interpretation about the good and bad that are manifested around us. To make a forest, it is necessary to plant trees. To make it overnight is not possible. But, there are plenty of examples for people converting barren land into fertile land with their relentless efforts on an ongoing basis. We should project our history and preserve our culture while progressing as a united community and society.  

Which among the Indian Cities can do that? A City as such also cannot do any of such initiatives. A City doesn’t have a personality as such. Personality of a city is the collective personality of the people in the city. Who governs your city? Is it a structured system that governs your city or there are invisible forces that decides the conduct of your city. Someone said like this. You should know the functioning of a city before doing anything in the city. That is too big a confusion.

The people in a city should take up progressive initiatives in smaller groups. Form a team of 7 people. Groups of 3, 5 or 9 is also alright. Magic Seven is the way opted by Global TV. Make a team of seven people by connecting with likeminded people around your house. Make it an informal self-help group and make it just a friendship group. Start talking about what is called Appreciative Inquiry.

To begin an Appreciative Inquiry (AI) process on yourselves and your city, you may follow the steps to ensure a positive, engaging, and collaborative experience:

1. Define the Inquiry Focus (Clarify the Purpose)

What can we do together? Identify what you want to explore which would also improve the life in your city. What great can happen with your intervention? Can we choose something without taking any risk associated like capital investments or something like that? Can we achieve something just by coming together and doing something innovative? Global TV presents an idea of connecting people.

Connecting people globally and locally is a brilliant idea for transforming cities and creating career opportunities for educated people. Educated meaning much beyond school and college education. Life is the great educator. Start talking on the topic of connecting people. Ask positive probing questions to people. Instead of focusing on problems, frame the inquiry around opportunities, strengths, and successful stories and past experiences of overcoming challenges.

Example: “What are our strengths? How can we build our city on our strengths? How can we become the most innovative team in our city?”

2. Engage Stakeholders

Involve a diverse group of people who care about your city and have an interest in seeing it thrive. These could be community leaders, local business owners, students, professionals, artists, and every resident. The key is inclusivity. Each and everyone has a unique perspective and contribution to make.

Share success stories and make media projects around them. Make TV episodes, publish Book Series, prepare albums etc. on a self-financing revenue model and thereby generating and sharing revenue with every stakeholder. Success is the normal outcome when people come together, sharing ideas and experiences.

The process gains energy and direction automatically. Scale up the initiatives and engage more people. Create an environment to hear and value all voices.

3. Formulate Positive and Powerful Questions

Ask questions that inspire curiosity, creativity, and hope. The right questions will help uncover new possibilities and highlight existing strengths. Check how did you have resolved problems and addressed challenges. Frame positive probing questions around success stories and desired outcomes. Examples include:

• “When was the last time you felt proud of being part of this city?”
• “What unique talents do people in our city possess?”
• “How have we successfully solved community challenges in the past?”
• Such questions help people to envision positive possibilities.

4. Conduct the 5-D Cycle of Appreciative Inquiry

Take help of an appreciative Inquiry Practitioner. There are set methods to conduct the Appreciative Inquiry Process. This is to set a broad perspective about your plans and purposes. It goes as a continuous process. Take time to talk lighter things. Inculcate listening skills. Talk with each other and listen to everyone’s ideas. Build up an atmosphere of collaboration and co creation. Let everyone’s strength become the strength of the entire group by creation of a teamwork. The 5-D Cycle includes the following. Sessions are explained further as well.

1. Define: Clarify the purpose of the team and set goals.
2. Discover: Explore stories of success and identify what works well.
3. Dream: Envision what the team could achieve by building on its strengths.
4. Design: Co-create strategies and initiatives to achieve the shared vision.
5. Destiny (Deliver): Implement and sustain the positive changes.

The second among the above five is presented below since it is an ongoing and very important process. Let your meetings be to explore the strengths of the team members. How nice it is to talk when there are people listening? Hear others as well so that others will listen to your stories. Let the stories help to identify your strengths and possibilities. Past is the sign board towards your future.

5. Conduct Discovery Sessions to Share Stories

Organize storytelling sessions regularly where participants can share meaningful experiences about what has worked well in the city or community. These could be formal workshops, small group discussions, or even casual conversations at local events. Focus on uncovering moments of success and pride. Pay attention to recurring themes and the factors that contributed to positive outcomes. These insights form the foundation for envisioning future successes.

6. Envision a Collective Dream for the City

Encourage participants to imagine the best version of your city’s future. What would it look like, sound like, and feel like? What if your community became a global model for innovation, inclusivity, or sustainability? By painting a vivid picture of what could be, participants start aligning their aspirations and finding common ground. This phase ignites excitement and motivation to act.

7. Co-Design Strategies and Innovative Solutions

Build a shared vision in everyone’s mind. Brainstorm practical ways to turn each of your dream into reality. Encourage creative, low-risk, or resource-light ideas. Connect local people globally with various initiatives. Host zoom events. Make connections and collaborations with people of your city living elsewhere. Think new and emphasize solutions based on creativity and practical possibilities.

8. Implement the Vision and Sustain Momentum

Translate ideas into action by forming working groups and defining clear steps to achieve goals. Focus on doing small wins to sustain enthusiasm and engagement. Regularly celebrate progress, recognize contributors, and adjust plans as needed to stay aligned with the evolving vision. Keep communication channels open so everyone remains connected and inspired to continue their efforts.

9. Celebrate Success and Share Stories Widely

Make celebration an ongoing part of the process. Share stories of success and progress on platforms like Global TV or community forums. This motivates current participants and inspires others to join. When people see what’s possible, they’re more likely to engage and contribute their ideas, energy, and expertise.

Tips for Success:

• Use skilled facilitators to guide the process.
• Maintain a positive, collaborative tone throughout.
• Keep communication open and inclusive.
• Follow up with regular reflections and adjustments.

Past, Present and Future with Global TV Contemporary Media Archives

Global TV presents you the rays of hope to connect your city in an ongoing way of communication. The digital content presented are incremental and archived among the new stories.  New stories today have fleeting lifespans, often emerging and vanishing within hours, lost in the endless churn of online updates. The rapid pace of information production, compounded by the passing nature of digital platforms, threatens to erase valuable insights that are crucial for understanding contemporary society. The initiative of Contemporary Media Archives (CMA) in various forms including Book Publication ensure the stories remain accessible for generations to come. There are many forms to explore in this context.

The Role and Vision of CMA

Contemporary Media Archives will provide a dynamic and accessible platform where essential stories are safeguarded. Unlike generic internet archives that may capture snapshots of webpages, CMA curates content based on its journalistic significance. CMA will capture critical events and narratives, offering future generations a clearer picture of social, political, and economic developments.

Media archives play a vital role in preserving the voices and stories that define societal identity. CMA ensures that diverse perspectives and underrepresented narratives are retained. By maintaining a repository of curated news stories, CMA provides valuable resources for researchers, journalists, and scholars who seek to analyze trends, fact-check historical claims, and study media evolution.

Archiving news helps maintain journalistic integrity by holding media outlets accountable for their coverage and narratives. CMA envisions partnerships with media organizations, experts, and people at large to develop sustainable strategies for overcoming these hurdles. Not every news story merits preservation; thus, CMA will rely on experts in journalism and media studies to identify and archive content of enduring relevance. The benefits of CMA extend to a treasure trove of archived news. CMA empowers individuals to seek information, trace narratives, and gain insights into issues that may have faded from public discourse.

For journalists and media professionals, CMA can serve as an invaluable tool for reporting and contextual analysis. For historians and social scientists, it offers a rich resource to study societal change and media framing over time. CMA plays a crucial role in preserving the truth and context of past events. By maintaining a comprehensive archive of key news stories, it safeguards against historical erasure and empowers society to learn from its past.

Contemporary Media Archives has to emerge in different formats. It is a cultural necessity more than a technological solution. It bridges the gap between the fleeting present and the reflective future. Make sure that the stories shaping our world are not lost but preserved, analyzed, and appreciated for years to come. As society moves forward, the value of such archives will only grow, providing a steady compass for steering the complex realities of our digital age.