Gautam Mazumdar: From a small-town boy to journalist of a national English daily

Gautam Mazumdar's life traces an extraordinary path from the coal-rich parts of Jharkhand to the high-stakes front lines of journalism, and finally an active ‘retirement’ life. 

A Mofussil Boy 

Born in Guwahati, Gautam spent early childhood in Dhanbad. It's a small mofussil town dotted with collieries and a railway division. Reminiscing about his childhood days, he takes a trip down memory lane detailing Dhanbad, the coal capital of India that has steel grade coal.

“The air was thick with the smell of sulfur. Steam locomotives were mostly in use in the sixties that chugged in and out, carrying freight and passengers. Life was simple, but the values were paramount --- mostly revolving around meeting basic needs, limited entertainment but high on principles.”

Even today, these memories remain vivid for him. 

Geologist or Journalist? Taking A Calculated Decision!

After completing his schooling in Dhanbad, Gautam went to Varanasi for higher studies. He pursued a science degree with Geology as hon's subject from Banaras Hindu University (BHU).

He cracked the JEE and secured a seat in M.Sc. in IIT Bombay. But, here comes the twist.!  He didn't continue there and chose a different path that exposed him to the world of knowledge and sharing. Unplanned but the fresh beginning took him to new heights.

A 29-Year Career in Ink and Insight

After careful consideration, he chose journalism, the fourth pillar of democracy. He graduated from one of the reputed institutions of India, Banaras Hindu University(BHU). Later, he joined Hindustan Times as a reporter. Gradually, carrying the true spirit of journalism with him, he rose to become one of the most trusted journalists. It is important to note that he was one of the trusted journalists of then Chief Secretary of Jharkhand, Mr. A. K. Singh. The professional journey of Gautam Mazumdar is nothing short of inspiring.

Refusing to Slow Down

“Do not sit idle after retirement. Walk, meet people, exchange ideas and lead a happy life”

The next phase of his life was something he never planned for. But it happened during COVID when Gautam said goodbye to his professional life. However, taking a back seat was never Gautam’s way. Even after retirement, he leads an active life. Gautam does yoga regularly, loves to play table tennis, badminton and cricket besides cooking. He is also into music and plays tabla. He was also made an Advisor of a highrise housing society in Kolkata. Further, he is planning to take up a career in teaching. As a member of the Marzi Community, he is drawn to its fundamental concept of ‘Quality & Engagement’. Whenever he manages time, Gautam takes active part in discussions, debates, and musical events that reflects his active life.