From the corridors of the BBC to the kadhais of Jaipur, Sanjeev Srivastava’s 40-year career has taken a savoury turn. 

The veteran journalist, who broke ground in 2003 as the BBC’s first Indian correspondent and later helmed its Hindi service, has traded his press card for a kadhai to make kachoris. After decades at The Times of India and The Indian Express covering the world’s biggest headlines, he’s now serving up a different kind of staple at Throwback Desi, his new kachori shop in Jaipur.

In an interview with Newslaundry, Srivastava opened up about the reason for the new innings. “This was one trip that I wanted to have, if possible… These are simple joys of life that I could fulfil. There is nothing profound in it.”

When asked what has contributed to the decline in journalism, he said the BJP’s “singular” attitude and “intolerance towards criticism” had singlehandedly destroyed the media today.

Srivastava lamented that most people are listening to or reading views that align with their worldview. “We are living in such a time when everything is so polarised and sharply divided. Most people are seeing or listening to (the media) that endorses their views.”

He also spoke about the similarities – or lack thereof – between running a newsroom and a shop, and fewer incentives for youngsters to join journalism. 

Watch.

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