Draft:Nagarika

Nagarika (ನಾಗರಿಕ) is a Kannada-language weekly newspaper founded in 1947. Renowned for its independence, closeness to the people, and minimal advertising, the newspaper primarily focuses on news from Uttara Kannada district and Honnavar taluk, along with broader coverage of Karnataka and Indian affairs. Over its long history, Nagarika has maintained a strong commitment to transparency, journalistic integrity, and literary promotion.

History

Founding and Early Years

Nagarika was initially established in 1947 in Kumta by a group of collaborators, including Ma Ga Shetty, Hanumant Rao Manjarekar, Gourish Kaikini, and M. G. Shetty. Subsequently, S. K. Pai, a renowned advocate and journalist based in Karwar, continued the newspaper’s publication. From 1964, G. R. Pandeshwar took charge and ran Nagarika until 1984. Following his death, Professor G. V. Hegde, with support from his wife Meera Hegde, operated the paper until 1987. That year, Krishnamurti Hebbar became the editor-in-chief, a role he has held for more than 38 years.

Developmental Focus

During the 1950s and 1960s, in the wake of India’s independence, Nagarika predominantly engaged in developmental journalism. The paper highlighted various challenges facing a growing nation while championing evolving Kannada literature. Throughout its history, Nagarika’s guiding principle has been “Being local, think global”—adapting global ideas to local needs. This approach was particularly significant before the advent of the internet, when staying informed about global trends required extensive effort.

Transition to Digital

Originally printed with letterpress printing method, Nagarika began digital printing in 2003, making it one of the first newspapers in Uttara Kannada—and possibly in Karnataka—to adopt digitization. Before this change, the publication was produced entirely in-house by 16 employees at “ರೇಖಾ ಪ್ರಿಂಟರ್ಸ”(Rekha Printers) named after Krishnamurti Hebbar’s wife, Rekha Hebbar. The press was later renamed “ದೀನಬಂದು ಪ್ರೆಸ್” (Deenabandu Press), meaning “friend of the poor press.” It operated under this name until 2017, after which printing was outsourced.

Editorial Approach and Content

Main Features

• Local Focus: The newspaper places strong emphasis on local news from Uttara Kannada, especially Honnavar taluk.
• State and National Coverage: In addition to local issues, Nagarika also covers broader Karnataka and Indian affairs.
• Kannada Literature: The paper publishes poetry (kavite), short stories (kathe), and other literary forms from a diverse group of writers. Since the 1980s, Krishnamurti Hebbar has personally traveled long distances to attend different Sahitya Sammelanas and literary programs, often without expectation of returns.
• Wide Contributor Base: Submissions have historically been accepted from individuals of all ages, castes, creeds, genders, and regions—subject to thorough review. Before the internet, readers sent writings through inland letters and mail, a practice still used by some who do not have internet access.

Notable Columns

• ಕೃಷ್ಣನ ಕೈಫಿಯತ್ತು (Krishnana Kaifiyattu): The weekly editorial by Krishnamurti Hebbar.
• “ಅವರ ಬದುಕು ನಮಗೆ ಬೆಳಕು” (“Their Life Is Light for Us”): A popular weekly feature showcasing inspirational life stories.
• “ರಾಜಕೀಯ ವಿಹಾರ” (Rajakeeya Vihara): A column written for 18 years by Member of Parliament B. V. Naik, an uncommon example of an MP contributing regularly to a newspaper for such a long duration.

Concern for Life and Literature

The main aspect of Nagarika is its deep concern for human life and life in general, including the well-being of other animals. Through its editorials and features, the newspaper strives to promote empathy, social responsibility, and literary enrichment. It has often served as a learning ground for young writers, college students, established authors, and senior citizens alike.

Minimal Advertisements

Nagarika features very few advertisements and strictly avoids native advertising. Special festival issues (Deepavali, Independence Day, Ugadi) may contain small advertisements, but otherwise, the newspaper seeks to preserve transparency and maintain editorial integrity.

Print and Distribution

• Current Format: The paper now follows a tabloid format (11 × 17 inches).
• Former Format: Previously, it was printed in crown size (15 × 20 inches).
• Special Issues: For major events and festivals, the publication releases special editions in the form of small magazines. These may feature color printing, whereas regular editions are typically in black and white.
• Combined Issues: On occasion, two weekly editions are combined into a 16-page issue.

Awards and Recognition

Krishnamurti Hebbar has received multiple accolades, including:

• Best Editor Award from the Karnataka Patrika Academy (ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ಪತ್ರಿಕಾ ಅಕಾಡೆಮಿ), conferred by the Government of Karnataka and given to journalists with over 25 years of experience.
• K. Shamrav Award for excellence in journalism.
• G. R. Pandeshwar Award for top journalism in Karnataka.
• D. Devaraj Arasu Award.

The layout design and editorial process are actively supported by his wife, Rekha Hebbar, who has been integral in shaping the newspaper’s presentation and content.

Slogans

Nagarika is known for its thought-provoking slogans that reflect its core values:

• “ದೇವರಿಗೆ ಹತ್ತಿರದವನಾಗಲು ಜನರಿಗೆ ಹತ್ತಿರದವನಾಗು” (“To be close to God, be close to people”)
• “Fight for the Right”
• “ಬೆಳಕಿನ ಬೀಜಗಳು ನಾವು ನಮಗೆಲ್ಲಿದೆ ಸಾವು” (“We are seeds of light; we do not die”)

Nagarika stands as a venerable Kannada weekly newspaper with a history spanning over 75 years. Throughout its journey, it has retained a deep commitment to honest reporting, minimal advertising, literary development, and a global perspective rooted in local realities.