NEW DELHI: Renowned journalist and writer Anil Dharker has passed away. According to media reports, the 74-year old was a cardiac patient and underwent a bypass procedure at a Mumbai hospital on Thursday.
Known for his vibrant and diverse five-decade-long career, Dharker, apart from his contribution to the world of media and literature, was the founder and director of the Mumbai International Literary Festival. From being the editor of reputed publications like Mid-day and The Independent, he has authored books such as The Romance Of Salt, about Mahatma Gandhi's Dandi March. His columns have appeared in a variety of publications both in India and abroad.
The noted journalist was a member of the Advisory Boards of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Doordarshan, the Children's Film Society of India and a member of the advisory committee of the film censor board. He was also responsible for opening the Akashwani Auditorium in south Bombay as an art movie theatre.
Following the news of Dharker's demise, many renowned figures have taken to social media platforms to express their grief and condolences.
Congress leader, writer and former international diplomat Shashi Tharoor tweeted: “Shocked and saddened by the news of Anil Dharker’s passing. The literary world will not be the same without him. His flair, wit and intelligence, his wide-ranging and eclectic tastes (always married to a respect for good writing) and his talent and energy for organisation make him irreplaceable.”
Veteran journalist and talk show host Vir Sanghvi wrote: "Devastated to hear about Anil Dharker. He epitomised the caring and socially concerned Mumbai intellectual. He elevated every job he did from promoting art cinema to editing mags to running Lit Live. In 1984 he gave me my first column. A great loss to India and to me personally.”
Poet, lyricist and chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Prasoon Joshi tweeted: “Saddened to hear about Anil Dharker passing away. Will miss and cherish the discussions we had about life. A stimulating mind, nurturer of literature and art who thrived on ideas.”
