Barun Sengupta

Born in the heart of Barisal, Barun Sengupta’s story began in 1934. Barun Sengupta, a name synonymous with fearless journalism and insightful political commentary, left an indelible mark on the landscape of Bengali media. His journey, however, wasn’t confined to the newsroom. It was a life intertwined with the very fabric of Kolkata, a city he called home after relocating with his family before the partition of India in 1947. Imagine young Barun, amidst the bustling Baithakkhana Market in north-central Kolkata, soaking in the city’s vibrant energy. This was the Kolkata that shaped his perspective, the Kolkata that witnessed the birth of his journalistic endeavors. From the classrooms of B.M. School in Barisal to Town School in Kolkata, Barun Sengupta honed his intellectual curiosity. He later pursued commerce at City College, Kolkata, laying the foundation for a career that would transcend the boundaries of business and delve into the complexities of politics and society. His early foray into journalism began with *Bhabikal*, a periodical that, though short-lived, ignited his passion for the written word. This passion found a stronger voice in 1957 with the founding of the weekly *Bartaman*, supported by Hemanta Kumar Bose, a prominent figure in the Forward Bloc political party. Barun Sengupta’s journalistic prowess led him to *Anandabazar Patrika* in 1960, where he became the first designated political correspondent in 1965. His commitment to truth and fearless reporting even led to his imprisonment during the Emergency, a testament to his unwavering journalistic integrity. The year 1984 marked a pivotal moment. Barun Sengupta left *Anandabazar Patrika* to revive his own newspaper, *Bartaman*, as a daily. Its straightforward and bold style resonated deeply with readers, quickly establishing it as a trusted source of news and analysis. The success of *Bartaman* paved the way for *Saptahik Bartaman*, a weekly, and *Sukhi Grihokon*, a monthly, further solidifying Barun Sengupta’s influence on Bengali literature and journalism. Beyond the newsroom, Barun Sengupta was a prolific author. His books, including titles like *Pala Badaler Pala*, *Sab Chatitra Kalpanik*, *Bipak-i-stan*, *Andhakarer Antaraley*, and *Netajir Antardhan Rahasya*, offered incisive commentary on India’s political landscape. His controversial book, *Indira Ekadashi*, explored the eleven-year tenure of Indira Gandhi as Prime Minister, showcasing his willingness to tackle complex and sensitive subjects. Barun Sengupta’s legacy extends beyond his writings. He was a voice of the people, a champion of truth, and a journalist who dared to challenge the status quo. His life, intertwined with the story of Kolkata and the evolution of Bengali media, continues to inspire generations of journalists and readers alike.