Outlook was like a breath of fresh air when it was first launched twenty years ago. Not afraid to court controversy, or to take on the powerful, Outlook reflected the verve and flair – and the editorial integrity – of its editor-in-chief, a man we came to admire immensely over the years. Over time, Outlook became something of a habit and we waited for the issues expectantly. I always saved the Delhi Dairy for the last, especially enjoying Mr. Mehta’s funny, irreverent takes, taking a dig at the prime minister or the matinee idol of the day.
Also synonymous with the magazine were Arundhati Roy’s incisive, angry essays on a range of subjects. At a time when the Indian media appears to be under siege, one can only hope that Outlook magazine will live up to its legacy: strong opinion, clear intent, and ethical.