Mark Tully, BBC’s ‘Voice of India’, Dies at 90
New Delhi: Veteran journalist Mark Tully, widely known as the BBC’s “voice of India”, passed away at 90 on Sunday. For decades, his calm and steady voice guided global audiences through India’s changing landscape. Moreover, listeners across Britain and India trusted his measured reporting. Born in Kolkata in 1935, Tully developed a deep bond with the country early in life. Over time, he learned Hindi fluently and embraced local culture. As a result, he stood apart from most foreign correspondents.
Reporting India’s Most Defining Moments
Throughout his long career with the BBC, Tully covered India’s most turbulent events. For instance, he reported on wars, famines, riots, and political assassinations. Additionally, he delivered widely respected coverage of the Bhopal gas disaster. He also reported in detail on the 1984 Army operation at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Importantly, his work focused on facts rather than drama. Consequently, audiences trusted him to explain complex events with clarity and balance. Meanwhile, his thoughtful commentary helped international viewers understand India beyond headlines.
Ayodhya Coverage and Defence of Secularism
In 1992, Tully faced grave danger while reporting from Ayodhya. During the demolition of the Babri Masjid, a hostile mob turned suspicious of the BBC. As a result, several people threatened him openly. They held him in a locked room for hours. However, a local official and a Hindu priest later rescued him. The mosque’s destruction, meanwhile, triggered nationwide communal violence. Years later, Tully described the incident as the gravest blow to Indian secularism since 1947. Therefore, his reporting from Ayodhya remains one of the most significant chapters of his career.
From Colonial Roots to Trusted Indian Insider
Tully grew up during the final years of the British Raj. Initially, his upbringing followed colonial traditions. However, his career took a different path. Over time, he became deeply connected to Indian society. His fluency in Hindi helped him build trust with citizens and leaders alike. Consequently, many Indians fondly called him “Tully sahib.” In recognition, India awarded him the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. Meanwhile, Britain knighted him in 2002. Ultimately, Mark Tully became more than a journalist. He became a bridge between India and the wider world.
