Shri Gulab Kothari, the Editor-in-Chief of the Patrika Group, is a luminary in the Indian media landscape, celebrated for his profound commitment to democratic values, ethical journalism, and the spiritual awakening of society. A veteran journalist, Vedic scholar, and sensitive poet, Dr. Kothari has steered the Patrika Group to become one of the most credible and influential media houses in India, with a particularly deep impact on the socio-cultural fabric of Madhya Pradesh. His leadership transcends traditional reporting, viewing the “power of the pen” as a sacred tool for public welfare and national service.
Early Life and Academic Pursuits
Born in 1949, Dr. Gulab Kothari’s early life was marked by a strong sense of duty and a quest for knowledge. Before entering the world of journalism, he served with distinction in the Indian Air Force from 1967 to 1975, rendering meritorious service during the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict, for which he was decorated with the Paschim Star and Sangram Medals. His academic journey is equally illustrious; he holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics, followed by a PhD and a D.Litt. from esteemed international and Indian universities. This unique background—blending military discipline, technical precision, and philosophical depth—has defined his unique approach to media leadership.
Professional Genesis and Leadership
Dr. Kothari joined the Patrika Group and played a pivotal role in its metamorphosis into a national powerhouse. Under his stewardship, the group expanded its footprint into Madhya Pradesh in 2008, quickly establishing itself as a beacon of trust in cities like Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Gwalior. His insistence on “straightforward, fair, and bold journalism” led him to fearlessly oppose regressive policies, earning him the prestigious Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Journalism and the Raja Ram Mohan Roy Award from the Press Council of India. In December 2025, his lifelong dedication to Vedic wisdom and education was further recognized with the Maharishi Vedvyas Award, presented by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
Transforming the Media Landscape
Dr. Kothari’s vision has fundamentally altered how regional media engages with the public, especially in Central India:
- Credible Leadership in MP: Within a few years of its launch, Patrika became the No. 1 newspaper in Bhopal and Indore (as per ABC and IRS reports), filling a critical need for authentic and people-centric news in Madhya Pradesh.
- Literary Giant: A prolific writer, he has authored over 50 books exploring the intersection of Vedic science and modern life. His masterpiece, Main Hi Radha Main Hi Krishna, was honored with the Bhartiya Jnanpith Moortidevi Award.
- Digital and Multimedia Pioneer: He has led the group’s digital transformation, ensuring that Patrika’s reach extends to millions through its website, apps, and popular YouTube channels, connecting the youth with credible information.
- Vedic Research: As the Chairman of the Vedic Peeth, he has worked extensively to revive India’s ancient knowledge traditions, delivering lectures at world-renowned institutions like the London School of Economics.
- Champion of Democracy: His bold editorial stances against censorship and for the protection of freedom of expression have made him a respected voice in national policy circles.
- Empowering Women: His recent work, Stree Ki Divyata (launched in March 2026), highlights his commitment to exploring the spiritual and societal roles of women, advocating for a more sensitive and inclusive society.
Social Responsibility and Philanthropy
For Dr. Kothari, journalism is inseparable from social reform. He has championed numerous campaigns that have left a lasting legacy in Madhya Pradesh:
- Amritam Jalam: A massive water conservation initiative that saw over 1.3 lakh people in MP come together to revive local water bodies.
- Narmada Seva Yatra: Dr. Kothari was a key invitee and active participant in this community drive to protect the Narmada River, the lifeline of Madhya Pradesh, emphasizing the need for afforestation and pollution control.
- Patrika in Education (PIE): This wing engages thousands of students in MP through vocational courses and seminars, fostering holistic development among the state’s youth.
- Social Campaigns: Under his leadership, Patrika has led powerful crusades against female foeticide, child marriage, and environmental degradation across Central India.
A Visionary Outlook
Dr. Gulab Kothari’s outlook is deeply rooted in the belief that “the destiny of a seed is for the maintenance of others”. He continues to advocate for a media ecosystem that prioritizes human values over commercial interests. His vision for “New India” involves a society where tradition and technology coexist, and where journalism acts as a bridge to reconnect the younger generation with India’s rich intellectual heritage. His forward-looking strategies ensure that the Patrika Group remains a steadfast guardian of public trust in the digital era.
Through his writings and leadership, Dr. Kothari has proven that a commitment to truth and sacrifice can transform a media house into a movement for social change.
Why is he one of the ‘Stars of MP’?
Shri Gulab Kothari’s contribution to Madhya Pradesh is a rare blend of intellectual depth and grassroots impact. By establishing Patrika as a credible and fearless voice in the state, he has empowered the citizens of MP to seek accountability and progress. His active participation in the Narmada conservation and water-saving drives has made him a household name associated with environmental stewardship. A war veteran who became a “soldier of the pen,” Dr. Kothari’s life is a testament to the fact that media, when led with integrity, can be the greatest architect of a state’s development and spiritual growth.
About the Author
