Mumbai Samachar Embraces Digital Future, Preserving 200 Years of Journalism

Mumbai Samachar, Asia’s oldest active newspaper, is embarking on a historic journey to digitize and document its rich legacy. Established in 1822 by Parsi scholar Fardunji Marzban, the Gujarati daily has witnessed and reported on some of India’s most defining moments, from the 1857 uprising to the birth of the Indian National Congress.  

 

The newspaper’s management has launched a comprehensive project to restore and archive old editions, ensuring that its 200-year-old history remains accessible to future generations. Plans include creating a digital repository featuring over 10,000 stories published across two centuries.  

 

Mumbai Samachar editor Nilesh Dave revealed that the publication is collaborating with various agencies to preserve fragile copies dating back to the 1930s. Some editions from the 1857 era remain in storage but require careful restoration before they can be digitized.  

 

In addition to its archival efforts, Mumbai Samachar has expanded its digital footprint by launching an English-language website, with Marathi and Hindi versions expected soon. The newspaper’s legacy will also be celebrated at the Cannes Film Festival, where the documentary Mumbai Samachar 200 Not Out will be screened.  

 

Sources: Deccan Herald, The Hindu BusinessLine, ThePrint, MSN News