India is called a 'dangerous' country for journalists but if I give my personal opinion, I haven't faced anything of that sort. Maybe because I cover soft news. But yes, I completely agree that press freedom in India doesn't have a very rosy picture painted.
1. Tell us about your background and journey.
I grew up in a crazy Punjabi family in Cuttack, Odisha and moved to Mumbai in 2015 to pursue journalism. Ever since my childhood, I was fascinated with movies and had a passion for writing and public speaking.
My journey started pretty early. I was 16-17 when I realized I want to be a journalist. Later, I decided I want to get into the entertainment beat and cover Bollywood & fashion. So, I did my Mass Media in Journalism course from UPG, Mumbai and started working for my passion soon after graduating. It's been 3 years and it has been one hell of a ride. From covering film events, interviewing Bollywood celebrities, covering news and reviewing films, I have witnessed every part of this field. And honestly, it does get stressful at times but then when you do what you love the most, no stress is big enough.
2. What is your opinion about press freedom in India?
Well, India is called a 'dangerous' country for journalists but if I give my personal opinion, I haven't faced anything of that sort. Maybe because I cover soft news. But yes, I completely agree that press freedom in India doesn't have a very rosy picture painted. I keep hearing stories of how journalists are threatened, blackmailed and sometimes even killed for covering certain stories. It breaks my heart. But as they say, the world stands on hope. So, I hope, one day India tops the list of countries that are the best in terms of press freedom.
3. Who is your favourite journalist and why?
It has to be Malini Agarwal (Miss Malini). I was very young when I started following her and her way of journalism/blogging. She knows her work well and definitely, knows a way to do it the best way. In fact, it was her work that inspired me to become a Bollywood journalist.
4. What do you think about the quality of journalism in India and how can it be improved?
My point of view is not that different from the majority of the population in India. We need to stop sensationalizing stories and focus on what needs to be covered. It is so sad to see some journalists going out of their way to cover a certain story that's completely unnecessary, especially in the electronic media (news channels). Sometimes, I feel the ethics of journalism is almost over here in India but then I remember that it's not always the journalist who is at fault. Most of the time, it's the TRP-hungry bosses/editors too. The scenario can only be improved if objectivity in journalism is maintained. Journalists should present the facts whether or not they like or agree with those facts. Neglected but important sectors must be covered as much as possible.
5. What is your message to all aspiring journalists?
I have been a firm believer of this one thing - do what you love the most and success shall follow. And if doesn't, it's not the end. The field of journalism is no fun and games, so enter it, only if you are extremely passionate about it. Do your research well and never take the unethical way, no matter how hard it is. Because in the end, all that remains with you is your work and how honestly you have done it. Be thick-skinned & headstrong, because here, you are definitely going to meet people that will not tell you pretty pleasing things about yourself but gulp it all and give them a strong reply with your work.
And as cliché as it might sound, please work hard in silence, no one wants to hear about your struggles, just let your success make the noise. Be a journalist for your love towards telling stories, not for name, fame & money - those things will follow if you are dedicated, trust me. And of course, my parting advice - have fun all the time. Don't make your work feel like work, enjoy it and it all shall seem worth it in the end.
6. If you could interview one famous person, who would that be and why?
Christopher Nolan, without a doubt. Took me a while but oh man, I have been a fan. The way he makes his movies, my God. I want to get inside his brain and see what goes on in there. And well, someday I might (laughs). But on a serious note, the filmy enthu cutlet that I am, I really want to have a meaningful conversation with him about his films and his world of cinema. It inspires me.
7. Which is your favourite book and why?
This question has always come across as a strange one to me. Like how people always assume journalists compulsorily have to read books. Well, some don't and I am one of them. I have read a few but to choose my 'favourite' one wouldn't be fair. I haven't gotten to the best ones as of now, I think and that's fine by me. Also because maybe I am too much into movies, I make it a point to watch one every day. Ya, I am a weirdo like that.
Rashita Sahni is a film & fashion journalist based in Mumbai, India. She started her journey at the age of 20, soon after graduating with a journalism degree. Covering the entertainment beat, her specializations include film reviewing, celeb interviews & covering Bollywood events.
- Interviewed By Pratibha Sahani
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