Rahul Kanwal Departs India Today Group; Kalli Purie Bids Emotional Farewell

Rahul Kanwal, News Director of TVTN and Executive Director of Business Today, will leave India Today Group after more than 22 years to pursue new opportunities.

The announcement was made via an internal email sent by Kalli Purie's office to India Today Group employees.

In her heartfelt message, she said, "He may go anywhere, but I know he will always carry a piece of India Today Group with him."

She went on to write, "Change is never easy, but as journalists, it is our lifeblood. It's what propels us forward. There is simply so much to do as AI opens a new door, an exciting inflection point for content creators."

Kanwal began his career in 1999 as an anchor and reporter for Zee News, before joining Aaj Tak in 2002.

Purie reflected on Kanwal's contributions and their shared experience. She wrote, "Over the last twelve years, we've worked closely together, formed formidable teams, developed powerful editorial IPs, and traveled the length and breadth of our incredible country, collecting memories that will last a lifetime. "Our newsroom is the envy of the media landscape."

She thanked Kanwal for his contributions, saying, "He has helped shape our growth story, and our institution is stronger as a result. He has mentored a strong second line that is ready for whatever comes next. It is now your turn to shine."

Kanwal's resignation letter was filled with nostalgia, gratitude, and a quiet ache as he praised the mentorship of both Kalli Purie and ITG chairman and Editor-in-Chief Aroon Purie.

The complete text of the resignation letter:

"Dear Kalli,

I was 22 years old when I joined India Today Group. I've now been here for 22 years, which is half my life. I wouldn't have believed it if someone had told me, fresh from completing the Chevening Fellowship in the UK and returning to India, that I'd be with this organization for more than two decades.

It is a testament to the vitality of this great institution that a curious young journalist like myself has found professional fulfillment and growth year after year. I never felt stagnant, constrained, or compelled.I never felt stagnant, constrained, or compelled to compromise. Your unwavering courage — your refusal to bow when bending would have been easier — has earned you my highest respect.

Over the past two decades, I've given this network everything I've got: my conviction, my craft, and my voice. It shaped me. It stretched me. It allowed me to witness history being made firsthand. The greatest honour of my life has been to lead the newsrooms of India Today and Aaj Tak.

Your heartfelt words about the value I bring to the India Today Group, as well as your recognition of my work ethic and talent, mean more to me than you will ever realize. I've always considered myself a trustee of the institution: fiercely loyal to its principles, invested in its legacy, and proud to fly its flag.

Throughout my time here, Mr. Purie and you encouraged us to push the envelope of what was possible while remaining fair and balanced in our reporting.

As we navigate this transition, I hope you will look back on our time together with pride at what we have accomplished. This was not an easy decision, but I hope that even after I leave the newsroom, you will remember me with warmth and goodwill.

Thank you for your faith, friendship, and strong leadership.

With the greatest respect, affection, and gratitude,

Rahul Kanwal."