Eenadu, which translates to “today” or “this land” in Telugu, is the largest circulated Telugu-language daily newspaper in India. Established in 1974 by Ramoji Rao in Visakhapatnam, it has played a pivotal role in shaping Telugu journalism and has a significant presence in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
History and Growth
1-Founding and Early Days
- Launch : Eenadu was launched on August 10, 1974, with an initial circulation of just 4,000 copies. The paper struggled initially but gradually gained popularity due to its unique approach to local news reporting and use of colloquial language.
- Competition : It faced stiff competition from established newspapers like Andhra Prabha but managed to surpass them by focusing on regional dialects and local issues.
2-Expansion
By 1978, Eenadu had overtaken Andhra Prabha in circulation, becoming the leading Telugu daily. Its innovative strategies included distributing free copies in new markets to build readership.
The newspaper expanded its reach by launching district editions, catering specifically to local news, which significantly boosted its circulation and advertising revenue.
3-Impact on Society and Politics
Eenadu has been influential not only in journalism but also in politics. During the rise of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and its leader N. T. Rama Rao in the early 1980s, Eenadu provided extensive coverage that helped propel Rama Rao into power. This relationship between the newspaper and political entities has shaped public opinion and political landscapes in Andhra Pradesh.
4-Modern Developments
Today, Eenadu boasts a circulation of over 1.2 million copies, making it one of the most read newspapers in India. It continues to adapt to changing media landscapes by incorporating digital platforms alongside its print editions. The newspaper is owned by Ushodaya Enterprises, part of the Ramoji Group, which also has interests in various other sectors including television and film production.
In summary, Eenadu stands as a testament to the evolution of regional journalism in India, reflecting both the cultural nuances of Telugu-speaking populations and the dynamic nature of media influence on society.
