KUNAL PRADHAN TO SUCCEED R SUKUMAR AS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF HINDUSTAN TIMES

HT Media Group has announced a significant leadership transition at Hindustan Times, with Kunal Pradhan set to assume the role of Editor-in-Chief in November 2026. Pradhan will join the organisation on 1 October as Acting Editor-in-Chief, succeeding R Sukumar, who will step down following this year’s Hindustan Times Leadership Summit.

R Sukumar’s departure marks the end of a defining chapter in HT Media’s editorial journey. Over the past two decades, Sukumar has played a pivotal role in shaping the Group’s journalism, first as one of the founding editors of Mint and later as Editor-in-Chief of Hindustan Times. His tenure was characterised by a steadfast commitment to credible and independent journalism, even as the media industry underwent profound transformation. Under his leadership, Hindustan Times successfully navigated the challenges of digital disruption, adapting to new ways in which readers consume news while maintaining its reputation for integrity and fairness.  

Reflecting on his decision, Sukumar said: “HT Media Ltd is one of the few media companies that still cares deeply about its journalism and it has been an honour and privilege to edit not one, but two mastheads of the company, Mint and Hindustan Times over the past two decades. Editors are just the visible face of teams that run newsrooms, and both at Mint and Hindustan Times, I have been fortunate to be part of extraordinarily talented teams. I am delighted that Kunal Pradhan, one of my fellow travellers at HT for most of my stint, is returning to take over as head of the newsroom.”  

Kunal Pradhan’s appointment signals continuity as well as renewal. A seasoned journalist with nearly three decades of experience, Pradhan has previously held senior editorial responsibilities at Hindustan Times, including as Managing Editor. His career spans leading roles at India Today, The Indian Express, Mumbai Mirror and Reuters, giving him a wide-ranging perspective on both Indian and international journalism. His return to Hindustan Times is seen as a natural progression, bringing back a familiar voice to lead the newsroom into its next phase.  

Industry observers note that Pradhan’s leadership comes at a crucial juncture for Hindustan Times, as legacy media organisations continue to balance the demands of print and digital platforms. His appointment underscores HT Media Group’s commitment to nurturing editorial talent from within while embracing the evolving dynamics of news consumption.  

The transition also highlights the Group’s emphasis on editorial independence and journalistic values, a hallmark of Sukumar’s tenure. As Hindustan Times prepares for this change, the newsroom is expected to build on its strong foundation while exploring new avenues to engage readers in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.