Gauri Lankesh was a prominent Indian journalist, editor, and activist known for her fearless writing and advocacy for social justice, human rights, and secularism.
She edited the Gauri Lankesh Patrike, a Kannada-language weekly known for its critical stance on right-wing extremism, inequality, and communalism in India.
Throughout her career, Lankesh advocated for the rights of marginalized communities, including Dalits, women, and religious minorities, while exposing corruption and government failings.
On September 5, 2017, Gauri Lankesh was tragically shot outside her home in Bangalore, sparking widespread outrage and protests across India against the rising violence targeting journalists.
Her assassination brought global attention to the dangers faced by journalists in India. Activists and citizens demanded justice for her murder and the protection of free speech.
Following her murder, a high-profile investigation ensued, uncovering alleged links between her killers and extremist groups, reigniting debates on intolerance and freedom of expression.
Her legacy lives on through movements advocating for press freedom, equality, and speaking truth to power. Gauri Lankesh remains a symbol of courage and resistance.
Gauri Lankesh Awards for Journalism were established to honor her memory, encouraging fearless journalism that challenges the status quo and fights for justice.
Her death serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for free speech, secularism, and justice in India, inspiring many to continue her fight.