As part of the centenary commemorations of Shri. K.M. Bashir founder of VMFT, we hosted the second session of our discussion series “Social Media and Progressive Thought in Kerala.” The session, titled “Malayalam Journalism: From Swadeshabhimani to the Social Media Era,” brought together media practitioners and scholars to reflect on how journalism in Kerala has evolved across time, technologies, and public expectations.
The discussion featured Manila C. Mohan, Managing Editor and CEO of Truecopy Magazine LLP, and Dr. Sajitha Bashir, Executive Vice-Chairperson of VMFT and an expert in education and economics. Through their conversation, the speakers traced the journey of Malayalam journalism from the era of the pioneering newspaper Swadeshabhimani to today’s fast-moving digital news ecosystem.
A central theme of the discussion was how journalism has continuously adapted to shifts in technology and audience behaviour. While print journalism once shaped public discourse through editorial voices and institutional credibility, the digital age has introduced a more decentralised media environment. Independent digital platforms, social media networks, and alternative media outlets now operate alongside traditional news organisations, creating both opportunities and challenges for journalism.
The speakers examined the evolving relationship between mainstream media and independent digital media, highlighting how digital platforms have enabled new voices and perspectives to emerge. At the same time, they discussed the pressures of speed, visibility, and competition that increasingly shape how news is produced and consumed.
Another key focus of the session was the question of credibility and responsibility in the digital era. With information circulating rapidly through social media, distinguishing between verified reporting and misinformation has become a growing concern. The discussion explored how journalists, editors, and media institutions must respond to these challenges while maintaining public trust.
The conversation also addressed the role of the media in democratic debate, particularly in a state like Kerala where journalism has historically played an active role in shaping political and social discourse. The speakers reflected on how the media continues to influence public conversations around governance, citizenship, and social change, even as the platforms and formats of journalism continue to evolve.
The session opened with a welcome address by Prof. Jameela Begum, President VMFT, who emphasised the importance of sustained public discussions on media, democracy, and social progress.
Organised under the broader vision of “Debates for Equal Humanity and Equal Citizenship,” the discussion series aims to create spaces for thoughtful engagement on issues that shape contemporary society. By revisiting the legacy of Swadeshabhimani alongside the realities of digital journalism, the session highlighted both the continuity and transformation of media in Kerala’s public life.
