I recently discovered that the first Hindi newspaper was launched way back in 1826. It was called "Udant Martand" which translates to "The Rising Sun". The newspaper was founded by Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla, who was a prominent scholar and journalist. It's fascinating how this publication marked the beginning of Hindi journalism in India. I can only imagine the impact it had on the Hindi-speaking population at that time, giving them access to information and news in their own language.
Indian Newspapers: How to Pick, Subscribe, and Go Digital
If you’re wondering which Indian newspaper to read today, you’re not alone. With dozens of national dailies, regional papers, and countless online portals, the choice can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t need to be a media expert to find a source that fits your routine, budget, and interests.
First, decide what matters most to you. Are you after breaking political news, business insights, sports highlights, or entertainment gossip? Do you prefer a morning paper you can flip through with a cup of chai, or a smartphone app that pushes alerts the moment something big happens? Your answers will narrow the field dramatically.
Top Print Dailies You Can Grab at the Corner Store
Here are the five most widely read print newspapers across India. All of them offer a mix of national and regional coverage, plus special supplements on weekends.
- The Times of India – Known for its bright layout and city‑focused reporting, it’s a solid pick for readers in metros.
- Hindustan Daily – Popular in the north, it provides straightforward coverage of politics, crime, and cinema.
- The Hindu – If you like in‑depth analysis and a quieter tone, this paper is a go‑to for serious readers.
- Indian Express – Offers investigative pieces and a strong editorial voice on current affairs.
- Deccan Chronicle – A regional favorite in the south that still covers national headlines efficiently.
All five have subscription discounts if you buy a month‑long bundle, and most vendors will let you pick up a single copy for a few rupees. When you’re just testing the waters, buying a few random issues can help you gauge the writing style you enjoy.
Going Digital: Indian News on Your Phone and Laptop
Print is still strong, but the shift to digital is unstoppable. Most of the big dailies now have free mobile apps and web portals that let you read articles without paying a rupee. If you’re comfortable with ads, you can get a near‑identical experience to the print version.
For an ad‑free, unlimited experience, consider a digital subscription. The Times of India and The Hindu both sell monthly and annual plans that unlock archives, premium newsletters, and no‑ad reading. These plans usually cost less than a yearly print subscription, especially when you factor in delivery fees.
Beyond the mainstream papers, there are niche sites that focus on specific topics:
- Moneycontrol – Best for market updates and stock tips.
- Scroll.in – Offers long‑form stories on culture and social issues.
- Sportstar – Ideal if you live for cricket, football, and Olympic news.
Most of these platforms send a daily digest email. You can customize it to include only the sections you care about, so you won’t waste time scrolling through irrelevant stories.
One tip most readers miss: use the “save for later” feature on the app. It lets you build a personal reading list that syncs across devices. That way, you can catch up on articles during a commute, a lunch break, or while waiting in line.
Finally, don’t forget regional language apps. Papers like Malayala Manorama (Malayalam) and Jagran (Hindi) have robust digital editions that deliver local news in the language you’re most comfortable with.
Staying informed in India is easier than ever. Whether you enjoy the tactile feel of paper or prefer swiping on a screen, there’s a newspaper solution that fits your lifestyle and pocket. Pick one or two, try a free trial, and you’ll quickly see how much more connected you feel to the world around you.