BENGALURU: Senior dignitaries, ministers and leaders cutting across party lines condoled the death of veteran journalist, columnist and author TJS George.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the veteran journalist. “TJS George was a towering figure in Indian journalism, whose fearless intellect and literary brilliance shaped public discourse over the last six decades. He was not just a journalist but a truth seeker, a conscience keeper, and chronicler of our times,” the DCM said in a press statement.
“His contributions to journalism were pioneering, and his columns marked by clarity, courage and socio-cultural insights. His writing style seamlessly blended journalistic rigour and literary elegance... His biographies of MS Subbulakshmi, Nargis, and others are well known. His book ‘Askew’ beautifully chronicled Bengaluru in the backdrop of bygone years, bringing out the deep nuances of our city. I offer my condolences to his family personally and on behalf of the government of Karnataka,” he said.
Union minister and former CM HD Kumaraswamy stated: “Having held many important positions, including editor, editorial director and editorial adviser of national and international newspapers, he was truly a treasure trove of experience. I closely followed his ‘Point of View’ column in The New Indian Express. I was captivated by his writing talent after reading his work ‘MS -- A Life in Music’, based on the life of music queen, Smt MS Subbulakshmi.”
‘I lost a great guru who guided my literary journey’
Renowned author and Rajya Sabha member Sudha Murty expressed deep sorrow at the demise of veteran journalist and writer TJS George, recalling his pivotal role in shaping her literary journey. “I’m extremely sad to know the demise of TJS George. I owe a lot to him,” she said. “I was a Kannada writer, and one day he called me and told me, you should write in English. He told me, you are a storyteller, language is a vehicle.” Sudha noted that George’s encouragement pushed her to write in English. “I started writing in English. First in The New Indian Express, and later in other papers. Ultimately, I wrote my first book ‘Wise and Otherwise’, for which he wrote the Foreword. That’s the only book I have with a Foreword, and that’s by TJS George.” She added: “I dedicated a book to him, ‘Three Thousand Stitches’, and he did come for the book release function... I feel very sorry that I lost a great guru, who guided me in my literary journey. The loss is great, but I only pray, may his soul rest in peace.”
Former CM and MP Basavaraj Bommai stated that the field of journalism has lost a senior mentor and guide, “TJS George, through his long-standing service in the Indian media, created a distinct mark for himself. As a columnist, he consistently analysed political events, keeping the political system alert and informed. For nearly 25 years, as a columnist, he raised his voice against social inequality and corruption through his writings. His passing represents a significant loss to Indian journalism.”
BJP State President BY Vijayendra stated, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Padma Bhushan TJS George, a towering voice in Indian journalism. His incisive columns and fearless critique have enriched our public discourse.”
Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said George was a true giant of Indian journalism, his sharp wit and powerful ‘Point of View’ columns will be deeply missed. “His contributions to literature and fearless commentary leave an indelible mark. His books, including a memorable Treasury of Indian Quotations, will live long,’’ he said.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah tweeted, "Saddened by the passing of veteran journalist, editor & author T J S George. With his sharp pen and uncompromising voice, he enriched Indian journalism for over six decades. He was a true public intellectual who made readers think, question and engage. My heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues and countless admirers domesticity."