Gardenian of the Month

Pick up a copy of any of the leading English dailies or magazines and invariably you will find one of his articles or numerous letters to the editor. That is because the young talented and focused Shailesh Kumar, a final year student of BA (Journalism) believes he is on a crusade. “I am on mission journalism,” he proudly states.

As a child, Shailesh recalls nurturing a dream to make it big in the media profession. Over the years, the goal remains firmly in place but has added another facet to his life - concern for the welfare of the society and extending help to others. He is one of the members of Mission 5, a group of GCC students working with the unprivileged sections of the society. Together, they have been actively engaged in their own small ways making a difference in the lives of others.

A dream student every lecturer would be proud to have in class, Shailesh is humble, disciplined and respectful in every way to those in authority as well as those he is associated with. It is a trait he attributes to his upbringing having been brought up with great discipline in an upright and family.
Little wonder he is the choice of many and for us, the Gardenian of the Month. GCC World chats with the budding journo. Excerpts from the Interview:

1. You have done internships with various newspapers, both English and regional languages. Tell us about your experiences?
Patna. Since this was my first internship, I was taught how to re-write stories in my mother tongue. The experience I gained at The Indian Express was different. The assignments were very challenging. I managed to get 30- 40 bylines. I was with The New Indian Express for a year and a half. Then I went on to do my internship with Zee News because of my interest in electronic media. On one occasion, I got the opportunity to work with Mr. Vijay Grover reporting on a protest march. It was an unforgettable experience. I have also done an internship with Vijay Times. I'm proud to say that I have got 103 bylines.

2. Since you have had hands - on experiences with most of the prominent newspapers and TV channels, what in your opinion is lacking in the media?
Today' media is focusing only on commercial aspects. There are only few journalists who pursue ethical journalism. Media seems to have forgotten its responsibility to the society. I would also say that politics plays a vital role in the field of media.

3. Tell us about your formative years?
My formative years were quite challenging, I never took part in any extra activities till class five. But I was always good at speech and debating. I won many prizes especially for my speaking skills. I had good command of Hindi. I was always with my father who was my pillar of strength. I did my primary schooling in Bihar and my secondary schooling from Allahabad. I took up arts as my choice because my favorite subject was Geography. I topped the Allahabad in the 12th board exams. After that I came to Bangalore for my degree.