States » NorthPosted at: Oct 29 2026 7:40PM


Himachal : Shimla to host memorial lecture honouring Prof Vepa Rao’s legacy in journalism

Shimla, Oct 28 (UNI) Shimla will host the inaugural Prof Vepa Rao Memorial Lecture on October 31 to honour the legacy of the distinguished journalist and journalism educator, with senior journalist and former editor of The Statesman Raju Santhanam scheduled to deliver the lecture. Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri will attend the programme as the chief guest. The lecture will be held at the Gothic Hall of Gaiety Theatre on the fourth death anniversary of Prof Rao, who headed the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) for three decades.
The event is being organised by former students of Prof Rao in collaboration with the HPU Department of Journalism and Mass Communication and the Keekli Charitable Trust. It aims to recognise his contribution to journalism and education while fostering discussion on the changing nature of journalism and its role in society. Santhanam, who has nearly four decades of experience in print, television and digital media, has served as editor of The Statesman and headed Zee News.
He had also worked with Prof Rao at The Statesman, lending a personal significance to his association with the inaugural memorial lecture. Born in Andhra Pradesh in 1946, Prof Rao served as Sunday editor of Hindustan Times and was associated with The Tribune before becoming editorial adviser to The Statesman.
In 1987, he joined the Indian Institute of Advanced Study in Shimla as a resident fellow. His research on communication and development during this period resulted in the book ‘A Curve in the Hills’. In 1990, he took charge of HPU’s Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, where he guided several generations of students and contributed significantly to the development of journalism education in Himachal Pradesh.
His academic contribution extended beyond HPU, as he also taught at the Indian Institute of Mass Communication in Dhenkanal.
The Himachal Pradesh government honoured him in 1997 for his contribution to development journalism. Prof Rao was also a poet, and his literary and intellectual interests were reflected in his poetry collection ‘Liquid Folds’. Remembered by his students for his warmth, humour and personal attention, Prof Rao guided numerous young people entering the media profession and remained a trusted mentor throughout their careers.
His influence continues through the journalists he taught and inspired.
Prof Rao passed away on October 31, 2022, at the age of 76.
The event will also pay tribute to the noted journalist and educator, while seeking to carry forward his commitment to intellectual curiosity, professional integrity and quality journalism education.
UNI BN
Tags: #Himachal : Shimla to host memorial lecture honouring Prof Vepa Rao’s legacy in journalism
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