Rajat Sharma
| Rajat Sharma | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | 18 February 1957 Sabzi Mandi, Delhi, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | Shri Ram College of Commerce (M.Com) |
| Occupation | Journalist, Businessman |
| Spouse | Ritu Dhawan (m. 1997) |
| Known for | Aap Ki Adalat, India TV |
Rajat Sharma (born 18 February 1957) is an Indian journalist and businessman who serves as the chairman and editor-in-chief of India TV. He is one of India's leading journalists and is widely known for hosting the television show Aap Ki Adalat, where he interviews politicians and celebrities in a courtroom-style format.[1]
Early Life and Education
Rajat Sharma was born in Sabzi Mandi, Delhi, into a Brahmin family. He grew up in a large family with six brothers and one sister. He completed his schooling at Ramjas School in Delhi.
He pursued higher education at Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), University of Delhi, where he completed his Master of Commerce (M.Com). During his college years, he was actively involved in student politics and joined the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad. In 1977, he was elected General Secretary of the Delhi University Students Union.[2]
Career
After completing his education, Sharma began his career as a researcher for journalist Janardan Thakur. He later joined Onlooker magazine as an intern and quickly rose to become its editor in 1985.
He moved to Mumbai and worked with publications such as Observer and Sunday Observer, serving in editorial roles. Later, he became the editor of The Daily.
In 1992, Sharma met Subhash Chandra of Zee TV during a flight, which led to the idea of the television show Aap Ki Adalat. The show premiered in 1993, with Lalu Prasad Yadav as the first guest. Over the years, Sharma has interviewed more than 750 prominent personalities, making it one of the longest-running shows in Indian television history.[3]
He also hosts the prime-time show Aaj Ki Baat on India TV.
Other Roles
Rajat Sharma served as the President of the Delhi District Cricket Association. However, he resigned from the position after a short tenure, citing corruption and external pressures.[4]
Awards
Rajat Sharma was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2015 by the Government of India for his contributions to journalism.[5]
Personal Life
Rajat Sharma married Ritu Dhawan in 1997. She is also associated with India TV and plays a key role in its management.