A Journalist’s Journey Beyond Language!

The Story Behind the Headlines

There are some events you attend just to listen. And then there are others that leave you transformed, altering how you see your field, your dreams, and even yourself. Madhav Gokhale Sir’s session on “My Bilingual Journalism” was, for me, firmly in the latter category. It wasn’t just a talk about journalism; it was a heartfelt narrative of resilience, self-belief, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

For those of us who live and breathe words, Gokhale sir’s journey felt like a lesson in what it truly means to build a career with purpose. It was a rare opportunity to hear the untold chapters behind a 40-year-long journey. The one marked by resilience, risk-taking, and relentless learning.

From Small Beginnings to a Lifetime of Impact

Born into a non-English-speaking background and starting his academic life as a commerce student, Gokhale sir’s first brush with English wasn’t until Class 5. For many, that might have been a barrier. But, for him, it became a reason to try harder.

Over the next four decades, he didn’t just report news; he shaped conversations across both Marathi and English media, navigating the complex worlds of politics, diplomacy, environment, sports, and society with equal ease. From India’s military decision-making to the global relevance of Indira Gandhi’s leadership, his work has reflected the depth of research and clarity of thought that only a journalist truly committed to the craft can achieve.

“Language wasn’t my gift; it was my pursuit. And that pursuit changed the course of my life.”

— Madhav Gokhale

 

Language: A Bridge, Not a Barrier

One of the most powerful parts of his talk was his perspective on bilingual journalism. It was never about translating thoughts from one language to another. It was about learning to think differently, to understand nuances, and to tell stories authentically in multiple voices.

When he first entered English-language media, it felt like “a foreign world.” Yet, through persistent self-study, a passion for reading, and fearless experimentation, he not only mastered the language but also began producing work that stood shoulder to shoulder with native speakers, all while continuing to shine in Marathi journalism as well.

His journey reminded me of a simple truth: language is not a limitation. It’s an opportunity. And the more languages we embrace, the wider our worldview becomes.

Mistakes, Lessons, and the Courage to Evolve

What makes Gokhale Sir’s journey deeply human is not just his success but how he handled failure. He spoke openly about criticism, about hearing the harshest feedback, and yet never letting it define him.

“Never repeat the same mistake twice. Until and unless you free yourself from limitations, you haven’t truly found yourself.”

— Madhav Gokhale

His words carried a kind of wisdom that only decades of lived experience can bring. Whether it was tackling complex investigative pieces, experimenting with 12 different editorial styles, or crafting powerful opinion pieces, Gokhale Sir never stopped evolving and never stopped learning.

Lessons in a Nutshell

The session felt like a masterclass not just in journalism, but in life itself. Some of my biggest takeaways:

• Stay curious. Your best stories often begin with your deepest questions.

• Embrace failure. Criticism is inevitable; what matters is how you grow from it.

• Language is power. The more you master, the more doors you can open.

• Keep evolving. Journalism, like life, rewards those who refuse to stay still.

Above all, he reminded us to believe in ourselves, fiercely and unapologetically.

“Māghye baghat, pudhe baghne: While looking back, then look forward,” he said, summarising a lifetime of courage in a single sentence.

One more important tip he mentioned, 

"Until and unless you can afford the food from any Press Conference, don't have it.."

Final Reflection: Journalism as a Lifelong Journey

When the session ended, I found myself deeply moved. I had come to listen to a journalist. I left having learned from a storyteller, a mentor, and a lifelong student of language, life and most importantly, journalism.

Madhav Gokhale Sir’s journey is proof that journalism is more than just a profession; it’s a calling. And whether we write in one language or two, whether we report from a small town or a global stage, what matters most is the integrity of our voice and the courage of our convictions.

Your Turn to Reflect:

How do you overcome the fear of stepping into a space that feels “foreign”?

Share your thoughts in the comments below....