FLO Bangalore, under the dynamic leadership of Chairperson Deepa Boopesh Reddy and the Executive Committee, hosted one of India’s most respected journalists, Navika Kumar, Group Editor-In-Chief, Times Now, for an engaging fireside conversation that moved far beyond television debates and breaking news. It was an afternoon that explored ambition, resilience, leadership, nation-building, and the responsibility of asking difficult questions. From the outset, Navika Kumar made one thing abundantly clear—her journey was never carefully scripted.
Fresh out of college, she stood at a crossroads familiar to many young women of her generation. A secure banking career beckoned. Teaching offered stability and predictability. Both were considered respectable professions. Yet neither ignited her curiosity. Drawn instead to a small recruitment advertisement in The Economic Times, she took a chance that would eventually shape one of India’s most distinguished careers in journalism.
What followed was a remarkable journey spanning over three decades—from business journalism and investigative reporting to political journalism and eventually television, where she became the first woman editor in Hindi television news.
Yet perhaps the most striking revelation was not about success, but about uncertainty. “I have never planned my life,” she reflected. “I simply worked sincerely wherever opportunity found me.”
Her story became a reminder that careers are rarely built through perfectly laid plans. More often, they are shaped by courage, persistence, and the willingness to say yes when opportunity knocks repeatedly.
Throughout the conversation, Kumar spoke candidly about navigating gender bias at a time when women returning to work after motherhood were often viewed as lacking commitment. Rather than allowing these perceptions to define her, she quietly continued building credibility through rigorous reporting, relentless preparation and an uncompromising work ethic.
The discussion naturally turned to journalism in an age of social media, artificial intelligence and instant information. While speed has become the defining feature of modern newsrooms, she argued that credibility remains journalism’s greatest asset.
“Facts don’t have sides,” she observed. “Opinions may differ, but facts remain constant.”
It was a powerful reminder that in an era flooded with information, discernment has become one of society’s most valuable skills.
The conversation also ventured beyond journalism into India’s evolving role on the global stage. Rather than focusing solely on policy or geopolitics, Kumar urged citizens to think closer to home. Nation-building, she suggested, begins not in Parliament but in neighbourhoods—through civic responsibility, cleaner communities, stronger institutions and greater public participation.
One of the afternoon’s most compelling moments came when the conversation turned towards women in leadership. While acknowledging that Indian women have made extraordinary strides across professions, she noted that the journey is far from complete. Leadership, she said, remains disproportionately male, and meaningful progress will require women to champion one another actively.
“If every successful woman helps just one other woman grow, imagine the movement we could create.”
It was a call not merely for empowerment, but for collective responsibility. She also offered an honest reflection on the younger generation—admiring their ambition while encouraging patience. In a world that celebrates instant success, she reminded the audience that experience, wisdom, and credibility cannot be accelerated.
The afternoon also welcomed students from HKBK College, One School of Business, VET College, and Shishu Griha School, giving them a unique opportunity to learn from some of the most accomplished minds in the industry. We were delighted to have the next generation of leaders join us, making the experience all the more meaningful.
We are truly grateful to our Platinum Sponsor United Hospitals, whose support and encouragement always help us create extraordinary events and incredible memories.
Adding to the experience was a beautiful showcase of Tussar and linen weaves by Taavare Weaves, a timeless reminder that our rich culture and heritage are not just to be admired, but proudly worn.
Guests also enjoyed an engaging preview of the upcoming FLO Bazaar through a vibrant pop-up that created plenty of excitement. From casting their vote for the Face of FLO Bazaar to posing for pictures, the interactive experience became a lively attraction, with everyone joining in the fun and creating memorable moments.