Rajat Sharma Wiki, Early life, Awards, Net Worth, Lifestyle, Relationship and more

Early Life:

Rajat Sharma, a prominent figure in Indian media, was born on February 18, 1957, in Delhi, India. He hails from a middle-class family with roots in Haryana. Growing up, Sharma displayed a keen interest in current affairs and journalism.

Education:

Sharma completed his schooling in Delhi before pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Shri Ram College of Commerce, University of Delhi. Despite his academic pursuits, his passion for journalism led him to delve into media-related activities from a young age.

Career Beginnings:

Sharma’s career in journalism commenced in the 1980s when he joined the Onlooker magazine as a trainee journalist. He quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his knack for investigative reporting and incisive interviewing skills.

Rise to Prominence:

Sharma’s rise to prominence came with the launch of his iconic television show “Aap Ki Adalat” (Your Courtroom) in 1993. The show, known for its confrontational style and hard-hitting interviews, catapulted Sharma to nationwide fame and established him as one of India’s most respected journalists.

Journalism and Activism:

Throughout his career, Rajat Sharma has been an ardent advocate for journalistic integrity and freedom of expression. He has used his platform to address pressing issues facing Indian society, from political corruption to social injustice, earning accolades for his fearless reporting and uncompromising stance.

Awards and Recognitions:

Sharma’s contributions to journalism have been widely recognized and honored. He has received several prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, for his exceptional service to the field of media and communication.

Personal Life:

Rajat Sharma keeps his personal life relatively private, preferring to focus on his professional endeavors. He is married to Ritu Dhawan, who is also involved in the media industry, and the couple has a son together. Sharma’s dedication to his work is evident in his commitment to delivering high-quality journalism and engaging content to his audience.

Less Known Facts:

1. Legal Career: Before venturing into journalism, Sharma briefly pursued a career in law, obtaining a law degree from the University of Delhi. Although he ultimately found his true calling in journalism, his legal background has undoubtedly influenced his approach to interviewing and investigative reporting.
2. Entrepreneurial Ventures: In addition to his work in media, Sharma has ventured into entrepreneurship, launching his own production company, India TV, in 2004. Under his leadership, India TV has emerged as one of India’s leading Hindi news channels, known for its bold and unbiased reporting.
3. Philanthropic Endeavors: Sharma is actively involved in various philanthropic initiatives aimed at supporting underprivileged communities and promoting education and healthcare. He believes in giving back to society and using his platform for the greater good.
4. Fitness Enthusiast: Despite his busy schedule, Sharma prioritizes his health and fitness, maintaining a disciplined exercise routine and healthy lifestyle. He is often seen jogging or working out in the gym, setting an example for his viewers and admirers.
5. Passion for Cricket: Sharma is a passionate cricket enthusiast and has been actively involved in promoting the sport through his television shows and interviews with cricketers. He has interviewed several cricketing legends, showcasing his deep love for the game.

FAQs:

1. How did Rajat Sharma’s show “Aap Ki Adalat” become so popular?
“Aap Ki Adalat” gained popularity due to Sharma’s unique interviewing style, which combined tough questioning with empathy and fairness. His ability to confront guests with uncomfortable truths while maintaining civility resonated with viewers, making the show a hit.

2. What is Rajat Sharma’s approach to investigative journalism?
Sharma approaches investigative journalism with meticulous research and fact-checking, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of his reports. He believes in exposing wrongdoing and holding those in power accountable, regardless of their stature or influence.

3. How does Rajat Sharma handle criticism and controversies?
Sharma remains unfazed by criticism and controversies, choosing to focus on his work and his commitment to journalistic integrity. He believes in standing by his principles and letting his work speak for itself, rather than getting embroiled in unnecessary controversies.

4. What are some of Rajat Sharma’s memorable interviews on “Aap Ki Adalat”?
Sharma has conducted numerous memorable interviews on “Aap Ki Adalat,” with guests ranging from political leaders to Bollywood celebrities. Some of his most iconic interviews include those with Narendra Modi, Amitabh Bachchan, and Shah Rukh Khan, among others.

5. How does Rajat Sharma balance his professional commitments with his personal life?
Sharma prioritizes his professional commitments while also making time for his family and personal interests. He believes in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and strives to excel in both aspects of his life.

Controversies:

1. Allegations of Biased Reporting: Sharma has faced allegations of biased reporting, with critics accusing him of favoring certain political parties or individuals in his interviews and news coverage. However, he has consistently denied these allegations, emphasizing his commitment to journalistic integrity and impartiality.
2. Legal Battles: Sharma has been embroiled in various legal battles over defamation and libel charges brought against him by individuals and organizations unhappy with his reporting. These legal challenges have tested his resolve and commitment to upholding journalistic principles.
3. Criticism of Interview Style: Sharma’s confrontational interview style has sometimes drawn criticism from viewers and fellow journalists who perceive it as overly aggressive or sensationalist. However, he defends his approach as necessary for holding guests accountable and eliciting truthful responses.
4. Social Media Backlash: Sharma has been targeted by online trolls and subjected to harassment and abuse on social media platforms for his views and opinions on controversial topics. This has highlighted the challenges journalists face in the digital age.
5. Accusations of Sensationalism: Sharma has been accused of sensationalizing news stories and prioritizing entertainment value over journalistic integrity. Critics argue that his focus on dramatic narratives detracts from the substance of the issues being discussed.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Rajat Sharma is a stalwart of Indian journalism, whose relentless pursuit of truth and commitment to ethical reporting have earned him widespread respect and admiration. From his humble beginnings as a trainee journalist to his current status as a media icon, Sharma has remained true to his principles, never compromising on integrity or impartiality. Despite facing controversies and challenges along the way, he has continued to uphold the highest standards of journalism, inspiring a generation of journalists and viewers alike. As he continues to shape the Indian media landscape with his incisive reporting and fearless interviews, Rajat Sharma’s legacy will endure as a shining example of journalistic excellence and integrity.