Anjana Om Kashyap Indian journalist Introduction.
Anjana Om Kashyap is one of India’s most recognized and influential television journalists. Known for her bold and straightforward style of news presentation, she has carved a niche for herself in the field of Hindi journalism. As a Senior Executive Editor at Aaj Tak, Anjana commands a massive following and is considered a household name in India. Beyond the TV screen, her journey reflects determination, resilience, and a commitment to journalism.
Anjana Om Kashyap Early Life and Education
Anjana Om Kashyap was born on June 12, 1975, in Ranchi, Bihar (now in Jharkhand), into a middle-class Kayastha family. Her father, Late Dr. Om Prakash Tiwari, was a doctor in the Indian Army, which gave her a disciplined upbringing in an environment where education and patriotism were highly valued. She grew up with a strong sense of duty and national pride.
She completed her schooling at Loreto Convent, Ranchi. Anjana was a brilliant student with a keen interest in debates, elocution, and general knowledge. Her inquisitive nature and communication skills would later prove instrumental in her journalistic career.
After finishing school, she went on to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Botany (Hons.) from Daulat Ram College, University of Delhi. However, her interest soon veered toward civil services, and she began preparing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations. Though she appeared for the UPSC exams multiple times and even cleared the prelims, she could not secure a final rank.
Not one to be disheartened, Anjana pursued a Master’s in Social Work from the Delhi School of Social Work. Her academic journey took another important turn when she decided to step into journalism. She enrolled for a Diploma in Journalism from Jamia Millia Islamia University, Delhi – one of India’s premier institutions for mass communication.
Early Career in Journalism
Anjana Om Kashyap began her career in journalism in the early 2000s. Her first assignment was with Doordarshan, where she worked as an anchor for the show “Aankhon Dekhi.” Although Doordarshan was a government-run channel with limited exposure compared to private networks, it gave Anjana her initial break and hands-on experience in the field.
She then joined Zee News, one of the top Hindi news channels at the time, where she worked as a desk journalist and gradually climbed the ranks. At Zee, she developed her style of storytelling and news presentation. Her articulation and powerful oratory skills soon earned her recognition.
Anjana later moved to News 24, where she hosted the popular debate show “Do Tuk.” The show was well received for its sharp commentary and hard-hitting style. Her assertive demeanor and confidence began to set her apart in the world of Hindi news anchoring.
Rise to Fame with Aaj Tak
The turning point in Anjana Om Kashyap’s career came in 2012, when she joined Aaj Tak, one of India’s most-watched Hindi news channels, a part of the India Today Group. At Aaj Tak, she rose rapidly to become Senior Executive Editor, hosting flagship shows such as “Halla Bol,” “Dilli Ke Dil Mein Kya Hai,” “Rajtilak,” and “Special Reports.”
Her show “Halla Bol” became a defining part of her career, where she interviewed top politicians, bureaucrats, and social influencers. Known for her tough questions and sharp editorial sense, Anjana became the voice of public sentiment. She often focused on issues affecting common citizens – from governance and corruption to national security and economic challenges.
Her dynamic on-ground reporting during major elections, especially the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha polls, as well as state assembly elections, showcased her fearless journalism. Anjana’s high-pitched debates, aggressive questioning style, and direct communication with politicians often put her in the center of national discussions.
Notable Coverage and Reports
Anjana has been on the ground during some of India’s most crucial news moments:
- Nirbhaya Case (2012): Her coverage of the Delhi gang rape case showed her empathy and strong voice for women’s rights.
- Kargil Vijay Diwas: Anjana has consistently covered stories related to the Indian Army, defense, and national security, often from border areas like Kargil, Drass, and LOC.
- Election Reporting: Her coverage of Bihar, UP, Delhi, and Gujarat elections has drawn high TRPs and public attention.
- COVID-19 Pandemic: She reported actively on health infrastructure, vaccine drives, and the plight of migrant workers during the crisis.
- Ram Mandir Verdict and Bhoomi Pujan: Anjana covered these culturally significant events with nationalistic fervor.
Style of Journalism
Anjana Om Kashyap is known for her aggressive and opinionated journalism. She does not shy away from expressing strong views, especially on issues related to nationalism, terrorism, women empowerment, and governance. Her detractors criticize her for being too loud or one-sided, but her supporters see her as a journalist who speaks for the nation without fear.
Her anchoring is characterized by:
- Powerful body language
- Fast-paced Hindi
- Patriotic tone
- Challenging politicians directly
- Use of real-time data and ground reporting
While some accuse her of leaning towards a pro-establishment or nationalist stance, Anjana defends her journalism as one driven by facts and national interest.
Awards and Recognition
Anjana Om Kashyap has received several prestigious awards for her contribution to journalism:
- ITV Award for Best Anchor
- Indian Television Academy Award (ITA) for Best Anchor
- ENBA Awards for Election Coverage
- Best Reporter and Anchor Award from various media forums
- Honored among the Top 10 influential Indian journalists
She has also been a regular panelist and speaker at India Today Conclaves, journalism seminars, and international media forums, representing Indian journalism on global platforms.
Author and Thought Leader
Apart from television journalism, Anjana is also a published author and columnist. Her pieces often focus on women’s rights, national security, social justice, and political analysis. Her writing reflects her on-screen persona—direct, impactful, and driven by public interest.
She has contributed to columns in leading Hindi newspapers and magazines. Though she has not authored a full-fledged book as of now, her literary contributions to journalism and editorial writing are significant.
Personal Life
Anjana is married to Mangesh Kashyap, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, who has served as the Chief Vigilance Officer of the South Delhi Municipal Corporation. The couple has two children—a son and a daughter.
Despite her high-profile career, Anjana maintains a relatively private personal life. She believes in balancing her duties as a journalist with her responsibilities as a mother and wife. Her family background in the army and police force has instilled in her values of discipline, nationalism, and service to the country.
Controversies and Criticism
Like most high-profile journalists, Anjana Om Kashyap has not been free from controversies. She has often been targeted on social media for:
- Her confrontational debates
- Accusations of political bias
- Allegations of “Godi Media” (media aligned with government interests)
Some episodes of her shows have attracted criticism for lack of neutrality or journalistic ethics. However, Anjana has consistently defended her work, stating that she does not favor any party and her only allegiance is to the truth and the nation.
One notable controversy was her reporting from a COVID-19 ward in Bihar, where she entered a hospital ICU during the pandemic. Critics accused her of endangering patient privacy and medical protocols, while her supporters viewed it as bold journalism exposing the healthcare system’s failures.
Impact and Legacy
Anjana Om Kashyap has become a symbol of assertive Hindi journalism in India. She represents a new generation of media personalities who blend field reporting with studio analysis and sharp editorial direction.
Her rise from a small-town girl in Ranchi to one of India’s most-watched TV anchors is a story of grit, ambition, and persistence. For many aspiring journalists, especially women, she is a role model. Her ability to engage millions of viewers daily reflects her deep connection with the pulse of India.
Her work has also influenced the format and style of news presentation in Hindi television—more conversational, more visual, and more aggressive.
Future Aspirations
Anjana Om Kashyap continues to be an active face on Indian television. With a career spanning over two decades, she shows no signs of slowing down. In interviews, she has expressed interest in mentoring young journalists and expanding the scope of investigative journalism.
There is also speculation about her venturing into digital media, writing a memoir, or participating in political and social reform initiatives in the future.
Conclusion
Anjana Om Kashyap’s journey is emblematic of India’s evolving media landscape. From a student with dreams of civil service to a news anchor commanding national headlines, she has traveled a path filled with challenges and achievements. Her assertive voice, patriotic commitment, and journalistic instincts have made her one of India’s most impactful television journalists.
While opinions about her may differ, there is no denying Anjana’s contribution to public discourse in India. She has not just reported the news—she has helped shape it. Her story continues to inspire millions across the country who wish to use media as a tool for truth, change, and empowerment.
