K.B. Ganapathy, the founder-editor of Star of Mysore and Mysooru Mithra, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 85. He succumbed to death at a private nursing home in Mysuru.
K.B. Ganapathy: The Voice of Mysore’s Most Respected Newspapers
In the rich media culture of Karnataka, few names are as iconic as a symbol of power and irresponsible reporting—K.B. Ganapathy. As Chief Editor of Star of Mysore and Mysooru Mithra, Ganapathy has been a support for local journalism for over four decades.
A Multifaceted Career
K.B. Ganapathy’s journey is as interesting as it is inspiring. Holding degrees in Arts, Law, and Journalism, he began his professional life in the Karnataka High Court practicing law. But soon his passion for storytelling and public discourse led him to journalism, where he worked for The Free Press Journal and The Indian Express in Mumbai.
His business undertaking took off in 1978 when he brought out Star of Mysore, an English language night daily, and Mysooru Mithra, a Kannada morning daily. They became a household name soon, thanks to their incisive editorials, local flavor, and quest for the truth.
Author, Columnist, and Cultural Commentator
Beyond the newsroom, Ganapathy is a prolific writer. His works include fiction, travelogues, and socio-political commentary. Some of his major works include:
Adarshavadi (Kannada novel)
America – An Area of Light (travelogue)
The Cross and the Coorgs (novel)
Abracadabra (a collection of his popular columns)
Gandhi’s Epistle to Obama (political commentary)
His writing reflects a deep understanding of Indian society, a sharp wit, and a fearless voice that challenges the status quo.
Recognition and Influence
Ganapathy’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He was a member of the Karnataka Patrika Akademi and was honored by the Akademi in 2001 for his journalistic work. His editorials and columns continue to shape public perception and inspire the next generation of journalists.
