Critical reflections on media hegemony

Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication (AIMC), Dwarka recently hosted a thought-provoking book launch and discussion around Global News Media: Countering Western Hegemony in International News by renowned media scholar and journalist Kalinga Seneviratne. The event attracted media professionals, academics, and students, offering a deep dive into the urgent need to rethink and reframe international news narratives.

The session began with a warm welcome and introduction by Dr. Praniti Paheli. She set the tone for the discussion by emphasising the importance of engaging with global media frameworks from a critical and culturally rooted perspective. The conversation was then taken forward by Dr. KG Suresh, who powerfully articulated the importance of decolonising news media. He spoke about the dominance of Western perspectives in international reporting and urged the need to amplify voices from the Global South.

Further, author Kalinga Seneviratne presented the core arguments of his book, spotlighting how media systems in the Global South are creating space for alternative narratives. Drawing from real-world examples and his extensive research, Seneviratne advocated for a more balanced global media order that resists Western hegemonic control and supports indigenous storytelling traditions.

Prof. Sajal Mukherjee, Director of Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication, remarked during the session, “Books and discussions like these help students become more conscious of the Indian news scenario and instill a sense of pride in the hearts of people.” His observation underlined the relevance of such dialogues in shaping the future of media education and practice in India.

The interactive Q&A session that followed was lively and reflective, with students and attendees engaging in meaningful conversations around media ethics, the rise of digital platforms, and the importance of indigenous knowledge systems in shaping narratives.