Kranti is one of the oldest regional Kannada daily newspapers, founded in 1962 in Kalaburagi, Karnataka (then part of the erstwhile Mysore State). It is the first Kannada newspaper from the Kalyana Karnataka region, which was historically influenced by Urdu due to its past under Nizam rule. Siddharamesh Mudhol, a fearless journalist and disciple of Shri Patil Puttappa, with the vision of promoting
Kannada language, culture, and fearless journalism in one of the most backward regions of Karnataka. The newspaper played a significant role in upholding press freedom, exposing corruption, and advocating for regional development. Siddharamesh Mudhol, was assassinated by police officers, allegedly due to his investigative journalism exposing corruption and police brutality. The case led to major protests across Karnataka and was debated in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly and Council, eventually being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Despite this tragedy, Kranti continued its legacy under the leadership of Kranti Kumar Siddharamesh Mudhol, modernizing its operations and introducing several firsts in Kannada journalism. In 1989, Kranti became the first Kannada newspaper to install a web-offset printing press, ahead of major newspapers. In 1996, it was the first Kannada newspaper to introduce color printing, pioneering a technological shift in regional journalism. It was also the first newspaper in the Hyderabad Karnataka region to receive UNI and PTI news services in 1976. In 2002, Kranti expanded its reach by launching a second edition from Bengaluru. In 2005, it adopted the international standard broadsheet format, setting a trend for other newspapers in Karnataka. Today, Kranti remains a symbol of fearless journalism, technological innovation, and dedication to Kannada language and culture, continuing its impactful reporting despite decades of challenges and struggles.
