Hira is a well-known media mogul and senior journalist whose contributions to Indian journalism are generally acknowledged.
Magna Publishing’s owner and well-known film producer, Nari Hira, passed away on August 23 at the age of 86. Renowned for his innovative efforts in launching well-known magazines including Stardust, Savvy, Showtime, Society, and Health, Hira played a prominent role in the Indian media landscape.
“It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of his passing, a pioneer in print media, a family man and father beyond compare, he leaves us behind heartbroken in his absence,” the official statement from Nari Hira’s family read.
Journalist Vir Sanghvi and novelist-columnist Shobhaa De worked for Nari following his passing. Whereas the later said, “RIP Nari Hira, the genius of Indian publishing,” the former penned, “Farewell, Boss…. (sic)”.With Stardust, he started the revolution in magazines.
RIP Nari Hira,the genius of Indian publishing.The magazine revolution began when he launched Stardust.He broke every convention of film coverage & then created a magazine empire based on those principles;be sharp,be blunt but write well & make it look good
— vir sanghvi (@virsanghvi) August 24, 2024
I will miss him pic.twitter.com/KgJ6rfluk8
I shall miss him (sic) because he violated all the rules of film journalism and went on to build an empire of magazines on the core values of being direct, incisive, and well-written.
Hira is a well-known media mogul and senior journalist whose contributions to Indian journalism are generally acknowledged. With his passing, a chapter in print media history comes to an end. For many years, his publications were essential in influencing public opinion and celebrity culture.