Shekhar Gupta

About Shekhar Gupta

Shekhar Gupta is one of India’s most influential journalists, editors, and public intellectuals, known for his fearless honesty, sharp political insight, and deep understanding of India’s evolving democracy. As the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of ThePrint, he has successfully built one of India’s most respected digital news platforms, redefining independent journalism in the age of misinformation and instant opinions. His ability to break down complex national and global issues into clear, accessible narratives has made him a trusted voice for millions.

With a career spanning over four decades, Shekhar Gupta has held leadership roles at some of India’s most iconic media institutions, including
The Indian Express and India Today. His long-running column “National Interest” remains essential reading for policymakers, corporate leaders, and students of politics alike. His acclaimed book Anticipating India compiles his most influential writings and reflects his foresight on India’s political and economic trajectory.

His video formats such as Cut The Clutter and National Interest have consistently ranked among India’s most watched public affairs content, reinforcing his relevance with younger, digitally native audiences. He also delivers keynote addresses at leading universities, global forums, and corporate leadership summits on democracy, media ethics, geopolitics, and India’s future.

A recipient of the Padma Bhushan, Shekhar Gupta is also a former President of the Editors’ Guild of India and the only Indian editor whose publication won the International Press Institute Award for Outstanding Journalism in the Public Interest three times. As a motivational and keynote speaker, he speaks candidly about leadership, truth-telling, institutional courage, entrepreneurship in media, and navigating change in uncertain times, making him a compelling presence at corporate offsites, policy forums, and leadership conferences.