Nidhi Kulpati stands as one of India’s most respected journalists, celebrated for her poised demeanor, incisive reporting, and decades-long association with NDTV. As a prominent Hindi news anchor, she has become a familiar face to millions, delivering news with clarity and authority. With a career spanning over three decades, Nidhi has navigated the evolving landscape of Indian journalism, earning accolades for her professionalism and resilience.
Early Life: Foundations of a Future Journalist
Nidhi Kulpati was born on May 19, 1976, in India, into a middle-class Hindu family. While specific details about her birthplace remain scarce, she spent her formative years in a nurturing environment that valued education and ambition. Her parents, Sarla Razdan and Maharaj Krishan Razdan, provided a supportive backdrop, encouraging her to pursue her dreams. Maharaj Krishan Razdan, a journalist himself and former editor-in-chief of the Press Trust of India (PTI), likely influenced Nidhi’s early exposure to the world of news.
Growing up, Nidhi displayed a keen interest in communication and storytelling. She completed her schooling in India, though exact institutions are not widely documented. Her academic journey took a pivotal turn when she trained in journalism at Sky TV in London, a move that equipped her with international-standard skills. This training, combined with her graduation from an Indian college, laid a robust foundation for her career in broadcast media.
The Start of a Storied Career: From Newstrack to Zee TV
Nidhi Kulpati’s entry into journalism began in 1990, a time when India’s media landscape was undergoing significant transformation. In 1991, she joined Newstrack, a pioneering video news magazine, marking the official start of her broadcasting career. Her early work included coverage of the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992—a defining moment in Indian history—showcasing her ability to handle high-stakes stories with composure.
After gaining experience at Newstrack, Nidhi moved to Zee TV, one of India’s first private television channels, where she served as a standby anchor for six years. This period honed her on-air presence and versatility, as she tackled diverse topics from politics to social issues. Her stint at Zee TV established her as a reliable voice in Hindi journalism, setting the stage for her next big leap.
Rising to Prominence at NDTV
Nidhi Kulpati’s association with NDTV, a leading news network, catapulted her to national prominence. Joining the channel in the late 1990s or early 2000s (exact dates vary across sources), she became a cornerstone of its Hindi news division, NDTV India. Her calm yet authoritative style distinguished her in a field often marked by sensationalism.
At NDTV, Nidhi anchored flagship programs like Prime Time, Mukhyamantri Chale Gaon, Yuva Sansad, and Dilli Durbar. Her ability to moderate debates with intelligence and grace earned her widespread admiration. She covered major events—elections, policy changes, and breaking news—bringing clarity to complex issues for Hindi-speaking audiences. By 2022, her leadership skills saw her promoted to Managing Editor of NDTV India, a role she assumed amid the channel’s transition under Adani Group ownership.
Awards and Recognition: Celebrating Excellence
Nidhi Kulpati’s contributions to journalism have not gone unnoticed. In 2010, she received the Indian News Broadcasting (INB) Award for Best Hindi News Anchor, recognizing her exceptional presentation skills. That same year, she was honored at the National Television Awards, cementing her status as a top-tier journalist. In 2017, the Pandit Hari Dutt Sharma Award celebrated her excellence in Hindi journalism, a moment she marked with a heartfelt speech about the evolving role of media.
In 2020, Nidhi received the Personality Award at the NT Summit, acknowledging her influence beyond the newsroom. Her TEDx talk at Thapar University, where she discussed media’s role in nation-building, further showcased her thought leadership. These accolades reflect her dedication to quality journalism and her impact on shaping public discourse.
Personal Life: Triumph Over Tragedy
Nidhi Kulpati’s personal life has been marked by both love and loss. Tragedy struck in 2005 when her husband suffered a fatal heart attack while they were in a Mysore hotel. The sudden loss shocked the journalism community and left Nidhi a widow at 29.
Choosing resilience over despair, Nidhi decided to remain single and focus on her career. Her strength in the face of personal adversity has inspired many, reinforcing her image as a woman of substance. She has no children, and her personal life remains largely private, with no rumors of subsequent relationships surfacing.
A Voice for the People: Style and Influence
Nidhi Kulpati’s anchoring style is defined by calmness and intellect. Whether moderating heated debates or delivering breaking news, she maintains a composed demeanor, earning praise for her ability to settle disputes without raising her voice. This approach has made her a trusted figure in Hindi journalism, where she stands out amid louder, more theatrical peers.
Her influence extends beyond the screen. Nidhi’s blogs on NDTV’s website and platforms like Muck Rack (last updated in 2019) offer insights into her views on media evolution. She has spoken at events like the Rotary Club of Bareilly’s 73rd installation ceremony in 2024, where she described mainstream journalism as “stubborn,” reflecting her belief in its enduring relevance.
Challenges and Controversies: Staying Above the Fray
Unlike some peers, Nidhi Kulpati has largely avoided controversies. Her career reflects a commitment to professionalism, steering clear of partisan debates or sensationalism. Even during tense on-air moments, she maintains decorum, a trait highlighted in fan videos on YouTube’s “Nidhi Kulpati Fan Club” channel, which showcases her handling topics like the Hijab issue with nuance.
One notable challenge came after her husband’s death, when she requested media restraint in photographing his body—a plea rooted in dignity rather than drama. Her ability to rise above personal and professional storms underscores her strength as a journalist and individual.
Physical Presence and Lifestyle
Nidhi Kulpati’s on-screen presence is complemented by her elegant appearance. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches and weighing approximately 56 kg, she exudes grace with her black hair and eyes. Off-camera, she leads a disciplined life, enjoying reading books during downtime. Her net worth, estimated at Rs. 33 crores (around USD 4 million) as of recent reports, reflects her successful career, though details about her properties or cars remain undisclosed.
The NDTV Legacy and Beyond
Nidhi’s long tenure at NDTV has been a cornerstone of her career. Joining alongside senior journalist Priya Darshan, she witnessed the channel’s growth into a media powerhouse. Her promotion to Managing Editor in 2022, following Gautam Adani’s acquisition of NDTV, signaled her pivotal role in steering its Hindi division forward. Programs under her watch continue to address pressing issues—politics, social justice, and governance—resonating with millions.
Beyond NDTV, Nidhi has worked with Doordarshan (DD), TVI, BBC, and Zee News, showcasing her versatility. Her early training at Sky TV in London added a global perspective, enriching her reporting on national stories like the Babri Masjid demolition.
Nidhi Kulpati in 2025: A Lasting Impact
As of 2025, Nidhi Kulpati remains a stalwart in Indian journalism. At 48, she continues to anchor at NDTV India, blending experience with adaptability in a digital-first media world. Her social media presence, including over 24,000 Twitter followers, keeps her connected to audiences, while fan pages celebrate her legacy.
Nidhi’s journey—from a young reporter in 1991 to a managing editor—mirrors the evolution of Hindi news. Her focus on substance over sensation, coupled with her personal resilience, makes her a role model for aspiring journalists, especially women in media. Her story is one of grit, grace, and an unwavering commitment to truth.
Comments
Post a Comment