Mangaluru: At a time when print journalism is battling shrinking readerships, commercial pressure, and ethical compromises, the completion of 25 years by Anupama stands out as a rare and reassuring milestone. Published from Mangaluru, Anupama has not merely survived but steadily earned credibility as a women’s monthly rooted in conscience, social responsibility, and journalistic discipline, drawing readers well beyond religious or ideological boundaries.
A Distinctive Editorial Journey
What makes Anupama’s journey particularly noteworthy is its institutional character. The magazine has been conceived, edited, and managed entirely by women for over two decades and a half. Led by Muslim women associated with Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Karnataka, the publication represents a rare example of sustained women’s leadership in the Kannada media space, especially in a field traditionally dominated by men and driven by commercial imperatives.
Since its first issue, released 25 years ago, Anupama has consistently foregrounded women’s voices, social concerns, ethical reflections, and lived realities. Its content, ranging from family life and education to social justice, mental health, and moral responsibility, has been marked by restraint, balance, and sensitivity rather than sensationalism.
Recognition Across Society
The Silver Jubilee celebrations brought this quiet achievement into wider public view. Congratulatory messages poured in from across the political, social, and cultural spectrum. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, appreciating the magazine’s journey, remarked:
“There are only a handful of Muslim women in journalism. In such scenario, it is highly commendable that Anupama Women’s Monthly, run by women from the minority Muslim community, has successfully completed 25 years.”
Earlier, the editor along with her editorial team had personally visited the Chief Minister’s residence to present him with a copy of the Silver Jubilee edition, a gesture that symbolised the magazine’s earned respect and acceptance in the state’s public and political life.
Veteran journalist Vijayalakshmi Shibaroor, Editor of Vijaya Times, described sustaining a women’s magazine for 25 years as an achievement of rare perseverance in today’s challenging media environment. She noted that Anupama has consistently brought women’s pain, joy, and aspirations into the social mainstream while standing firm with facts, ethical clarity, and professional responsibility.
Institutional Encouragement and Stewardship
The Silver Jubilee issue of Anupama was formally released in Bengaluru by Syed Sadatullah Husaini, President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind.
Congratulating the editorial team on completing 25 years of consistent and principled journalism, he described Anupama as a shining example of how women’s leadership – when guided by faith, ethics, and social responsibility – can make a lasting contribution to public life. He encouraged the team to deepen their engagement with contemporary social issues while preserving the magazine’s moral compass, intellectual depth, and inclusive outlook.
Earlier, the Silver Jubilee edition was received at the JIH Karnataka office by Mohammed Saad Belgami, who lauded the editorial team for sustaining a women-led publication with integrity and professionalism for over two decades and a half. He noted that Anupama, functioning under the guardianship of JIH Karnataka, has evolved into a credible public platform reflecting the organisation’s commitment to women’s empowerment, ethical journalism, and constructive social engagement. Expressing confidence in the team’s vision, he said the magazine’s journey so far offers strong foundations for a future marked by wider reach, deeper impact, and continued relevance in Karnataka’s plural public sphere.
Ethics Over Expediency
One of the most defining moments of the Silver Jubilee programme came when the Editor-in-Chief, Ms. Shahnaz M., spoke candidly about the realities of running a magazine in contemporary times. Acknowledging that advertising revenue plays a crucial role in sustaining any publication, she noted that Anupama too depends on advertisements for survival. However, she underlined that the magazine has consciously drawn ethical boundaries, refusing advertisements related to tobacco, cigarettes, liquor, or any form of promotion that compromises moral responsibility.
Her remarks drew warm appreciation from the dais. One of the speakers observed that at a time when even governments increasingly encourage liquor sales as a major source of revenue, Anupama’s uncompromising adherence to ethical principles is not merely admirable but morally exemplary and institutionally courageous. The moment reinforced the magazine’s identity as a publication that places conscience above convenience and values above viability.
A Silent Bridge-Builder
Without projecting itself as confrontational or ideological, Anupama has played a subtle yet significant role in dispelling misconceptions and fostering dialogue. By focusing on shared human concerns and ethical values, the magazine has quietly built bridges in a plural society. Kannada literary figures, social activists, and editors from mainstream women’s magazines have repeatedly acknowledged Anupama’s professionalism, content quality, and journalistic standards.
Alongside its strong print presence, the magazine has also adapted to changing times by expanding its reach through digital and social media platforms, connecting with younger readers while retaining its core audience.
Looking Ahead
As Anupama steps into its next phase, its 25-year journey offers an important lesson for contemporary media: that principled journalism, women’s leadership, and public trust can coexist with sustainability. The youthful energy, determination, and ethical clarity that have defined its past now form a strong foundation for the future.
At 25, Anupama is more than a women’s monthly. It is a quiet institution in Karnataka’s public life, demonstrating that when journalism is guided by conscience, empathy, and integrity, it not only survives but leaves a lasting imprint on society.
