Dasu Krishnamoorty, a towering figure in Indian journalism with a legacy spanning seven decades, will step into his 100th year this Tuesday, July 1.
Hailing from a family of journalists, Krishnamoorty was part of the first batch of journalism students at Osmania University, studying under the renowned Prof. De Forest O’Dell during 1954–55. He topped the class. During his internship at The Times of India, he earned high praise from none other than the legendary editor Frank Moraes.
Krishnamoorty’s early career saw him working with The Sentinel, The Deccan Chronicle, and The Daily News before he joined The Indian Express as chief sub-editor. He played a key role in setting up its Vijayawada edition in 1959. After a brief stint at The Times of India in Ahmedabad, he moved to New Delhi in 1969 and spent nearly two decades at The Patriot.
In Delhi’s bustling editorial circles, he earned the moniker “Deskman Extraordinaire” for his unmatched page layout and editing skills.
Post-retirement, Krishnamoorty turned to teaching, sharing his vast experience at the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi, and later at the University of Hyderabad, Osmania University, Andhra Pradesh Open University, and Bhavan’s College of Journalism. He continued to contribute thoughtful essays on media and journalism.
At the age of 75, after migrating to the United States in 2001, he reinvented himself as a literary promoter. Alongside his daughter, Dr. Tamraparni Dasu, he launched India Writes, an initiative aimed at translating and globally showcasing the best of Telugu short fiction.
Their literary collaboration has so far produced three acclaimed anthologies:
- Santoshabad Passenger 1947 and Other Stories (2010)
- The Seaside Bride and Other Stories (2019)
- Ten Greatest Telugu Stories Ever Told (2022)
Currently, he is working on his autobiography.
Remarkably spry for his age, Krishnamoorty remains in good health and continues to spend a few hours each day before his computer. His memory remains razor-sharp.
A few months ago, he addressed Osmania University’s current journalism batch via video conference. Students were enthralled. Imagine a 1954-55 alumnus speaking to the 2024-25 batch! In recognition of his lifelong contribution, they presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award—a rare moment that bridged generations with journalistic grace.
