Outlook was like a breath of fresh air when it was first launched twenty years ago. Not afraid to court controversy, or to take on the powerful, Outlook reflected the verve and flair – and the editorial integrity – of its editor-in-chief, a man we came to admire immensely over the years. Over time, Outlook became something of a habit and we waited for the issues expectantly. I always saved the Delhi Dairy for the last, especially enjoying Mr. Mehta’s funny, irreverent takes, taking a dig at the prime minister or the matinee idol of the day.
Also synonymous with the magazine were Arundhati Roy’s incisive, angry essays on a range of subjects. At a time when the Indian media appears to be under siege, one can only hope that Outlook magazine will live up to its legacy: strong opinion, clear intent, and ethical.
This version has been edited.
(Ira Puri, essayist, writer, art critic)
Outlook invites readers to take part in its 20th anniversary celebrations. Send us your bouquets and, more importantly, your brickbats. E-mail your entry to editor [AT] outlookindia [DOT] com
