Gauri Lankesh was more than just a prominent journalist; she was a fierce advocate for justice, human rights, and democracy in India. As the editor of Lankesh Patrike, a Kannada-language newspaper, Gauri made waves for her unwavering stance against right-wing extremism, corruption, and religious intolerance. While her professional life is well-documented, her personal life, including her marriage and relationships, also provides a window into her character, values, and the challenges she faced in balancing her public and private worlds.
Gauri Lankesh’s Husband
One of the lesser-known aspects of Gauri Lankesh’s life was her marriage to Chidanand Rajghatta, a senior Indian journalist based in Washington D.C. Chidanand is known for his work as the U.S. correspondent for The Times of India, covering political and diplomatic affairs between India and the U.S.
The couple shared a deep bond over their passion for journalism, and their marriage was seen as a union of two bright journalistic minds. However, the marriage did not last long, and they divorced after five years. Although their separation was amicable, Gauri and Chidanand maintained a respectful and professional relationship post-divorce. Despite the end of their marriage, Gauri continued to live independently, dedicating herself fully to her work as a journalist and activist.
In interviews, Gauri acknowledged the respect she had for her former husband and his work, but their paths diverged as their careers took them in different directions. Despite this, they remained in touch, and after Gauri’s assassination in 2017, Chidanand publicly expressed his deep sorrow, mourning not only the loss of a brave journalist but also someone who had played an important role in his life.
Life After Divorce Gauri’s Independence and Activism
Following her divorce, Gauri Lankesh lived alone, yet she built a close-knit network of younger activists whom she referred to as her “adopted children.” This included prominent figures such as Jignesh Mevani, Kanhaiya Kumar, Umar Khalid, and Shehla Rashid, all of whom have been involved in social and political activism. Gauri saw herself as a mentor to these younger activists, guiding them as they navigated the complexities of fighting for justice and equality in a politically volatile environment.
Despite not having biological children, Gauri considered her role as a mentor deeply important. Her personal relationships reflected her larger ideological stance: she believed in nurturing and uplifting those around her, especially young voices advocating for systemic change.
Gauri Lankesh Journalist, Activist, and Martyr
Gauri Lankesh’s life was not just about reporting the news; it was about making a stand for what she believed was right. As the editor of Lankesh Patrike, a Kannada weekly, Gauri used her platform to speak out against the ills of society, including the caste system, religious extremism, and political corruption. She was an unwavering critic of right-wing ideologies and was known for taking a stand against the increasing communal violence in India.
Her outspoken nature made her a target of threats and intimidation, particularly from hardline religious and political groups. In 2017, this culminated in her assassination outside her home in Bengaluru. Gauri’s death sent shockwaves across the country, with journalists, activists, and citizens mourning the loss of a fearless voice for justice and democracy.
Her assassination is widely believed to be politically motivated, connected to her critiques of right-wing groups. The investigation into her death is still ongoing, with several suspects arrested. However, as of October 2024, there has been a significant development in the case: two of the accused, Parashuram Waghmore and Manohar Yadave, were granted bail, sparking fresh controversy and renewed calls for justice from Gauri’s supporters.
Gauri Lankesh‘s Husband Chidanand Rajghatta
After her separation from Chidanand Rajghatta, Gauri chose to focus entirely on her career and activism. Chidanand, who has been based in the United States for several years, continued his work as a correspondent for The Times of India. Despite their split, Chidanand has always been vocal about his admiration for Gauri’s work and her fearless spirit. Following her murder, Chidanand wrote a moving tribute to his former wife, highlighting her courage and lamenting the loss of someone he had deeply respected.
Their relationship, though it ended in divorce, was built on shared values of truth, justice, and journalistic integrity. Both Chidanand and Gauri took pride in their ability to speak truth to power through their respective platforms. Gauri’s decision not to remarry after her divorce reflected her commitment to living life on her own terms, free from societal expectations.
Gauri Lankesh’s Role as a Mentor and Advocate
In addition to her role as a journalist, Gauri Lankesh was also an important mentor to many young activists in India. Figures such as Jignesh Mevani, a Dalit rights activist, and Kanhaiya Kumar, a political leader from Bihar, considered her a guide and moral compass in their respective struggles against oppression. Gauri’s personal and professional life often intertwined, as she sought to use her influence and platform to empower marginalized voices.
Her advocacy was not just limited to journalism; she actively participated in protests, wrote scathing editorials, and gave speeches that resonated with India’s youth. Even after her death, her influence remains palpable among those who continue to fight for freedom of expression and social justice in India.
Gauri Lankesh’s Legacy and Continued Impact
Gauri Lankesh’s legacy lives on through the continued efforts of those she mentored and inspired. The Gauri Lankesh Memorial Trust, established after her death, works to promote independent journalism and free speech, two causes that were close to Gauri’s heart. The trust also offers awards to journalists and activists who exhibit the kind of fearless reporting that defined Gauri’s career.
Even in death, Gauri’s name remains a rallying cry for those committed to upholding democratic values in India. Her murder, while tragic, only strengthened the resolve of her supporters to fight for the causes she championed. The fight for justice in her case continues, with Gauri’s family and friends demanding full accountability for those responsible for her assassination.
Conclusion
Gauri Lankesh’s life was a testament to the power of independent thought, free speech, and unwavering courage. Her marriage to Chidanand Rajghatta may have been brief, but their shared values and mutual respect endured long after their divorce. Living life on her own terms, Gauri built a legacy that extends beyond journalism, mentoring and inspiring future generations of activists in India.
Even as her murder case remains unresolved, Gauri Lankesh’s spirit continues to guide those fighting for a more just and equal society. Her story is a reminder of the personal and professional costs of speaking truth to power—and the profound impact that one person’s courage can have on the world.
