Journalism is often imagined as a glamorous profession—bylines, breaking news, and front-page stories. Nayantara Som’s journey shows that behind every story lies years of discipline, curiosity, and the willingness to work under constant pressure.
In this episode of Unblur the Path, Nayantara shares what it truly means to build a career in journalism in India, offering invaluable insight for students who are drawn to writing, reporting, and understanding the world through stories.
Early Influences: Curiosity Before Career
Nayantara’s journey into journalism did not begin with a fixed career plan. It began with curiosity—a habit of reading, observing, and asking questions about the world around her.
Growing up, books and newspapers played a significant role in shaping how she processed information. This early exposure to reading and storytelling laid the foundation for what would later become a newsroom career.
Her story highlights an important truth:
Journalism often starts as curiosity long before it becomes a profession.
Education and the Path into Journalism
Nayantara studied at Loreto College, Kolkata, before moving to St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, institutions known for encouraging critical thinking and academic rigour.
She emphasises that journalism does not follow a single rigid academic pathway. What matters more than the degree itself is:
- the ability to think critically
- strong writing and comprehension skills
- awareness of current affairs
- and a genuine interest in people and society
Formal education provided structure, but real learning began elsewhere.
Inside the Newsroom: Learning on the Job
Nayantara’s professional journey took shape in the fast-paced environment of The Indian Express newsroom.
She describes newsroom life as:
- deadline-driven
- mentally demanding
- constantly evolving
Stories are not written in isolation. They require verification, balance, and responsibility. Reporting is not about opinions—it is about accuracy, ethics, and accountability.
For students aspiring to become journalists, Nayantara stresses that newsroom experience teaches lessons no classroom can:
- how to work under pressure
- how to respond to feedback
- how to accept rejection and rewrite
- how to separate personal views from facts
🎧 Watch / Listen to Nayantara Som on Unblur the Path
The Reality of a Journalism Career
Nayantara speaks honestly about the realities of journalism—especially for young aspirants.
Some key realities she highlights:
- Journalism is not a 9–5 job
- Breaking news does not wait for comfort or convenience
- Recognition comes slowly, often after years of consistent work
- Writing well is necessary, but reporting well is essential
She also explains that journalism today extends beyond print. Digital platforms, long-form reporting, editorial strategy, and audience engagement are now integral to the profession.
Skills Every Aspiring Journalist Must Build
Based on her experience, Nayantara identifies a few non-negotiable skills:
- Strong reading habits – to understand context and history
- Clear writing – simplicity over complexity
- Observation – noticing details others miss
- Resilience – handling criticism, rejection, and pressure
- Ethical clarity – knowing when not to write a story
Journalism, she notes, is as much about what you leave out as what you publish.
Advice for Students Considering Journalism
Nayantara’s advice to students is grounded and practical:
- Read widely before deciding
- Intern early to experience newsroom realities
- Be prepared for uncertainty and competition
- Enter journalism only if curiosity outweighs the need for comfort
She encourages students to ask themselves not “Is journalism exciting?” but “Am I willing to do the work it demands?”
Final Reflections
Nayantara Som’s journey shows that journalism is not chosen for fame or ease. It is chosen by those who want to understand society deeply and tell its stories responsibly.
Her experience offers clarity to students who may romanticise journalism without seeing its demands—and reassurance to those who feel drawn to it despite the challenges.
Mummy, Kahani Sunao! 