This was last year, an assignment for my Journalism class.
From an internship at Strategic Newspapers to handling the editorial section of Hindustan Times, Zara Murao has come a long way. Currently the Subeditor of Hindustan Times, she is working her way to the top. I spoke to Zara at her office in Mahim.
| Zara at Hindustan Times headquarters in Mumbai |
What do you think of the current state of Indian Journalism?
I think there is too much stress on entertainment these days. It’s only about TRP's now. What is missing is actual information. The journalism world before, during the freedom era, had a lot of integrity. Now we have become this yuppie nation behaving like we are selling quality ice cream, it should look good, feel good. Real news is avoided because there is a fear of readers or viewers getting bored and switching over to the next newspaper or channel.
Describe a typical day in your life.
I work on the desk. My working hours are mostly from 1 to 10 pm. It’s pretty flexible. After coming to office I read some 5 or 7 newspapers. That takes a couple of hours. Then the rest of the day goes in planning the page, editing copies, and planning special features. The newspaper is put to bed by 11.30 pm.
What do you like and dislike about your job?
I like the pace, the speed. Everything is constantly moving about. It’s challenging to meet deadlines everyday. What I do not like about my job is that it’s very taxing. Your personal life has to take a back seat.
What are the common problems faced by a Sub Editor?
I can only think of two problems. First is that you have to get everything ready before the deadline, no matter what happens. Second is the lack of proper communication with reporters.
Who is your favorite journalist?
Indrajit Hazra. I love the way he blends politics and music and humor. He writes about serious stuff with a witty and sarcastic pen. And then politics is my best loved area.
What are your views on Yellow Journalism?
I think there will always be an audience for such type of news. It’s human nature to gossip. But it should be done in the right spirit. Like not giving out gossip as truth or presenting it as fact.
Is there any particular incident that you would like to share?
Yeah there was this funny incident. I had just started working and there was a copy I had to edit. The article was about annual IIT fees and instead of 1 Lakh I wrote 11 Lakhs! The copy was printed and we had to rectify the error later. I was miserable and wanted to quit as I thought I was not responsible enough for the job. In the end my entire team took me out for ice cream to cheer me up. That was the best part!
Tell us something about HT.
Hindustan Times has some of the best minds. They listen to you, no matter where you belong on the hierarchy. There is total democracy. You can march up to the boss and yell if you are angry. Believe me, that is a satisfying experience.
What do you like to do in your private time?
I love to travel. I love collecting stamps on my passport. I have been to Kenya, Finland, Egypt, Tibet, and Nepal. The best experience was in Finland. We went sledging and ice skating. I like trying out unusual cuisines. The weirdest thing I have had was Yak's testicles!
What will you like to tell budding reporters?
I would advise them to not be prejudiced. Always be ready to move with time. If you do not adjust you are likely to fall behind. Be open to ask questions, do not be ignorant. Do not be stubborn whether you like something or not. Do not be biased. It’s a very exciting and respected profession. You get to do interesting things and see interesting places.
-Kavita Mishra
-Kavita Mishra
