Rons Bantwal
Mumbai, Mar 2: Emphasising the dignity and responsibility of journalism, Shivananda Tagaduru, president of the Karnataka Working Journalists’ Association (KWJA), urged journalists to uphold truth and serve selflessly. “Journalists must remain impartial and committed to the truth. That is the essence of our profession. Our aim is to extend KWJA across the nation, providing support to journalists and fostering mutual bonds. This strengthens relationships and promotes collective growth within the journalist community,” he said.
The oath-taking ceremony for the newly appointed office-bearers of the Maharashtra unit of KWJA was held on Sunday at the Club House hall in Andheri East, Mumbai. The event was inaugurated with a traditional lamp-lighting by Tagaduru.
During the function, the KWJA Maharashtra 2026 diary was released, and appointment letters were presented to the newly elected office-bearers. Dr Shiva Moodigere, elected as state president, and Sadarama N Shetty, honorary treasurer, received symbolic certificates and officially assumed office. Tagaduru addressed the gathering, saying, “In our lifetime, the most important achievement is winning people’s hearts. Reach people’s hearts with integrity, remain objective, and turn your journalistic privilege into a fulfilling life. Cherish the gift of journalism and live a life of gratitude and purpose.”
Dignitaries on stage included G C Lokesh, general secretary of KWJA; CA Jagadish B Shetty, election officer of the Maharashtra unit; Dr G P Kusuma, president of the Kannadiga Journalists’ Association, Maharashtra; and Rons Bantwal, Founder president of KWJA Maharashtra unit. Tagaduru also urged journalists across Maharashtra to participate in large numbers in the KWJA State Conference scheduled later this month in Bidar.
Speaking at the event, G C Lokesh said, “KWJA is emerging as a powerful network of journalists nationwide. It addresses the concern that retired journalists are often unheard. Strengthening unity among journalists ensures societal and governmental support.”
CA Jagadish Shetty highlighted the significance of KWJA Maharashtra unit’s formation. “This is a landmark achievement and a dream realised after many years. Uniting journalists is extraordinary work, and the solidarity of Kannadiga journalists in Maharashtra sends a strong message. The active participation of women journalists in Mumbai is particularly commendable,” he said.
Dr G P Kusuma added, “This diary is more than a planner; it strengthens professional relationships, symbolising unity and identity among journalists.”
Dr Shiva Moodigere, in his presidential address, said, “Our organisations serve as a ‘Kalpavriksha’ for journalists, fulfilling their aspirations. Only when we, as working journalists, see ourselves as committed professionals can journalist organisations thrive. Even after retirement, maintain your identity and live with dignity as journalists.”
Executive committee members Ranga S Poojary, Savitha S Shetty, Harish K Poojary, John Wilson Lobo, and others assumed office during the event. Special recognition was given to John Wilson Lobo, Sharadkumar Ghandte, Sidananda D Amner, and Suresh K Mulyamanchakal for their contributions to the diary publication.
Savitha S Shetty offered the invocation. Dr Shiva Moodigere welcomed the guests, and Rons Bantwal presented the agenda. Anita Poojary Takode introduced the dignitaries and anchored the programme. Maharashtra unit vice-president Shyam M Hande and Gopal Poojary Trasi shared their views, while executive committee member Dr Dinesh N Shetty Renzal congratulated the team on the association’s progress. The ceremony concluded with the National Anthem.