Senior Journalist And Author T J S George Passes Away At 97

Eminent journalist, editor, and author Thayil Jacob Sony George, better known as T J S George, passed away on Friday at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru. He was 97 years old.

A recipient of the Padma Bhushan in 2011 for his outstanding contribution to literature and journalism, George was admired for his sharp, satirical, and fearless writing. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he established himself as one of India's most respected public intellectuals.

George served as the Editorial Advisor of The New Indian Express and gained nationwide recognition for his long-running weekly column, Point of View. He continued writing the column for 25 years until 2022, persisting with his commitment to "journalism of courage" well into his nineties, up to the age of 94.

Born in Kerala, George spent the greater part of his life in Bengaluru. He is survived by his children, Sheba Thayil and acclaimed author-poet Jeet Thayil. Notably, American television journalist Raj Mathai is his nephew.

Condolences poured in from political leaders and colleagues. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed grief, calling George a "veteran journalist, editor & author" whose "sharp pen and uncompromising voice enriched Indian journalism for over six decades." He added that George was "a true public intellectual who made readers think, question, and engage."

In addition to his journalism, George was a prolific author. His works include The First Refuge of Scoundrels: Politics in Modern India (2003), M.S.: A Life in Music - the biography of Carnatic legend M. S. Subbulakshmi, and Lessons in Journalism - The Story of Pothan Joseph.

He also served as Chairman of the Asian Institute of Journalism, further contributing to the growth of the profession he so passionately championed.