When The Hindu requested a nostalgic piece for its Hyderabad edition's golden jubilee, it triggered a profound journey down memory lane for veteran journalist Dasu Kesava Rao. Having served the publication for over a quarter of a century, Rao’s recollections offer a rare glimpse into the symbiotic relationship between a premier news institution and a rapidly transforming city.

The Early Days in Begumpet

The Hyderabad edition first rolled out in August 1976 from Begumpet, on land owned by G. Pulla Reddy. In those days, the landscape was starkly different from the bustling commercial hub it is today. There were no luxury hotels or major banks; instead, the area was characterized by empty spaces and quiet streets. Reporters often found solace at the local 'Friends Café,' surviving on simple tea and biscuits during intense news cycles.

The original single-storey building housed everything from editorial to printing departments. It was a period marked by simplicity, where the office stood 'royally' alone, often identified by local landmarks like the 'Pulla Reddy sweet shop' rather than corporate addresses.

Leadership and Technical Milestones

The success of the edition was deeply tied to the dedication of its leadership, notably Editor G. Kasturi. Kasturi was known for his hands-on approach, often staying in the office until well past midnight to oversee the first edition's rollout. During the early stages, the printing process was a global affair, involving French engineers who stayed on-site to assist with the installation of sophisticated printing equipment.

The journey of The Hindu in Hyderabad has mirrored, in many ways, the transformation of the city itself.

The newsroom was also a place of strict discipline and specific traditions, such as the exclusive privilege of having Nescafe served three times a day, a small luxury in an era of intense labor.

Urbanization and Modernization

As Hyderabad expanded, so did the newspaper. The late 1980s saw structural expansions, and by the turn of the century, the transition to a modern corporate identity was complete. The once-solitary building in Begumpet was now surrounded by prominent establishments like Axis Bank and Hotel Grand Kakatiya.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the history of media houses is inextricably linked to urban development. As cities move from residential/semi-rural to metropolitan hubs, newsrooms must evolve from manual, localized operations to digital-first, corporate-structured entities to remain relevant to their changing audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When did The Hindu start its Hyderabad edition?
The edition was launched in August 1976.

2. Who was the key editor during the early years of the Hyderabad edition?
G. Kasturi played a pivotal role in setting up and nurturing the edition.