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Journalism of Courage
I have been a part of Screen for over a decade,yet the paper completing 60 solid years amazes me. I feel proud to be associated with a publication that is creating history. I joined this film weekly when Rauf Ahmed was the editor and Screen was in the process of going through a transition from a broadsheet to a tabloid. There was a lot of excitement about the paper entering a new phase and apprehension about its acceptance by the film fraternity.
Since I was new,these things did not concern me. My interest was in proving myself to Rauf who I had heard was very particular about stories and style of writing. When the tabloid was launched,I thought it had a great visual appeal and interesting content. However after a short stint,it had to go back to its original avatar because the industry had a strong association with the broadsheet. That also brought back Udaya Tara Nayar as the editor. A pleasant and soft-spoken lady,it was a pleasure working with her.
In my 14-year association with Screen,seven years were under Bhawana Somaaya. It wont be wrong to call her a dynamite in a small package. She had a way with phrases,all her own. Those of us who have worked with her have adopted them. That apart,I will always cherish the small function she organised for me when I was going on maternity leave.
Four years ago,Priyanka Sinha Jha took over Screen and since then the paper has gained a new momentum. She brought a fresh perspective and encouraged me to experiment with different kinds of stories. I have also started learning new aspects of writing and editing,which I have begun to enjoy.
Now,this issue onwards,the paper is going in for a makeover adapting a new size that will be convenient to carry and easy to read. Im certain that it will get a great response,and Screens trail-blazing journey will continue for another 60 years and more. l
chaya.unnikrishnanexpressindia.com
