To honour the life, values, and journalistic legacy of veteran journalist B.R.P. Bhaskar (1932–2024), Bodhigram, in collaboration with ISDG, organised the inaugural Bodhigram–BRP Media Award and Memorial Meeting on June 4, 2025, at the Press Club, Thiruvananthapuram. The event brought together senior journalists, writers, activists, and admirers of BRP Bhaskar from across Kerala.The event was presided over by J.S. Adoor, President of Bodhigram. The formal welcome was delivered by Anilkumar P.Y., Secretary of the BRP Media Award Committee, who introduced the context of the award and the vision of the organising collective.
The BRP Memorial Address and Award Inauguration was delivered by Shri P.V. Rajagopal, eminent Gandhian and founder of Ekta Parishad. In his deeply reflective speech, he highlighted BRP’s unwavering commitment to democratic values, ethical journalism, and social justice. Rajagopal underlined the need for independent voices in the media, especially in times of increasing political polarisation.
The Bodhigram–BRP First Media Award was conferred upon Mr. M.B. Babu, Senior Reporter at Mathrubhumi, in recognition of his consistent and courageous reporting on marginalised communities and underreported issues. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Babu spoke about the challenges of pursuing meaningful journalism and shared insights into the featured story that earned him the award.The keynote address, titled “The Changing Media Landscape”, was delivered by writer and social critic Sunny M. Kapikkad, who analysed the current state of media in India, the challenges of corporate consolidation, and the erosion of critical, dissenting voices. He invoked BRP’s life as a model for ethical journalism rooted in public responsibility.
A special memorial segment was held in remembrance of BRP Bhaskar. Dr. Iris, former Associate Professor at St. Xavier’s College, delivered a heartfelt reflection on BRP’s intellectual depth and moral clarity, remembering him as a mentor and guide for multiple generations.
Mr. K. Abu Baker, Secretary of Naytika Vedi, also spoke on the occasion, recalling BRP’s long-standing commitment to democratic dialogue, minority rights, and his fearless role as a public intellectual.Mr. R. Rajagopal, former editor of The Telegraph and Chairperson of the Award Jury Committee, shared reflections on the award process and reaffirmed the need for such recognitions to keep alive the values of ethical journalism.
Architect and urban planner Mr. G. Shankar offered a deeply personal tribute, recalling BRP as a conscience keeper of Kerala’s civil society.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Sanjo Sabu, representing the organising team. Sanjo expressed gratitude to all speakers, awardees, participants, and collaborators, while reaffirming the commitment to carry forward BRP’s legacy of truth, justice, and independent journalism.
