Vartha Bharathi Marks 23 Years of Journalism, Begins Preparations for Silver Jubilee

Bhatkal: Mangaluru based newspaper Vartha Bharathi has completed 23 years of its journalistic journey and has begun preparations for its Silver Jubilee celebrations. As part of the preparations, Editor in Chief Abdus Salam Puthige, along with senior members of the organisation including Yaseen Malpe, CEO Mohammed Muslam and other team members, visited Bhatkal and held a special interaction with office bearers of Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem, community leaders and media representatives.

Speaking at the gathering, Abdus Salam Puthige recalled the newspaper’s journey, which began in 2003 with its first edition from Mangaluru. He said the newspaper is now published from four districts, namely Mangaluru, Bengaluru, Shivamogga and Kalaburagi, while its digital platforms have also attracted a large audience.

He said Vartha Bharathi now reaches around 2.5 million viewers every day across its print and digital platforms. Recalling the difficult early years, Puthige said the organisation faced several major challenges, including a situation where its building had to be sold to keep the newspaper running.

He said the team witnessed Allah’s support during some of its most difficult periods. Recalling the initial days, he said many people had warned that running a newspaper would be extremely difficult, but the organisation continued its journey with determination and has now reached its 23rd year.

Yaseen Malpe spoke about the history of Vartha Bharathi and the circumstances that led to its establishment. He said the initiative began with limited resources but with a strong determination to contribute to the community.

According to Malpe, the team spent several years meeting people and organising workshops before building a dedicated group of journalists who eventually made the newspaper’s mission their own.

He said the newspaper has played a role in highlighting issues concerning Muslims, disadvantaged communities and other marginalised sections. He claimed that Vartha Bharathi has emerged as a platform for those seeking their voices to be heard.

Malpe further said that the newspaper currently ranks fifth in Karnataka’s print media sector and claims the top position in the state’s digital media space. He said the organisation has maintained its editorial principles despite facing various challenges, including the withdrawal of government advertisements.

He added that several programmes are being planned as the organisation enters its 25th year and called upon community members to support the initiative.

Yunus Qaziya, President of Anjuman Hami e Muslimin Bhatkal, praised Abdus Salam Puthige for his courage and determination throughout the newspaper’s journey. He recalled that a meeting related to the establishment of Vartha Bharathi had been held at the same organisation around three decades ago and expressed satisfaction that discussions were now being held there regarding its future plans.

He emphasised the growing importance of media and said greater efforts were needed to strengthen responsible journalism and take the initiative forward.

Inayatullah Shabandri, President of Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem Bhatkal, welcomed the Vartha Bharathi team and assured them of all possible support.

The programme’s objectives were presented by Tanzeem General Secretary Maulana Azizur Rahman Ruknuddin Nadwi, who also served as the moderator. Vice President Qamar Saada and others also shared their views.

The programme began with a Quran recitation by Iqbal Bengali and concluded with dua.

The programme was organised by Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem Bhatkal.