Mark William Tully

Sir Mark Tully, the revered British journalist and author whose voice became synonymous with India for generations of listeners, passed away peacefully at his home in Delhi on January 25, 2026, at the age of 90. For over three decades, he served as the BBC's India correspondent and bureau chief, becoming an iconic figure known for his distinctive broadcasting style and profound understanding of the subcontinent. His passing marks the end of an era for journalism and for the deep cultural bridge he helped build between Britain and India.

Born in Calcutta (now Kolkata) in 1935, Sir Mark spent much of his early life in India before returning to England for his education at Marlborough College and Trinity Hall, Cambridge. He joined the British Broadcasting Corporation in 1964 and was posted to India the following year, a move that would define his illustrious career. By 1972, he had risen to become the BBC's Chief of Bureau in Delhi, a position he held with distinction for 20 years.

Throughout his tenure, Sir Mark reported on some of the most pivotal moments in modern Indian history, including the Emergency of 1975-77, the Bhopal gas tragedy, the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and the demolition of the Babri Masjid. His reporting was characterized by its impartiality, depth, and a unique ability to convey the complexities of Indian society to a global audience. He was not merely an observer but a deeply engaged chronicler, earning the trust and respect of people across all strata of Indian life.

After his resignation from the BBC in 1994 due to differences with management, Sir Mark chose to remain in India, continuing his work as a freelance journalist and prolific author. His books, such as "No Full Stops in India" and "Amritsar: Mrs Gandhi's Last Battle," offered insightful perspectives on the nation he so deeply cherished. His contributions to journalism and Anglo-Indian relations were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Padma Bhushan in 2005 from the Indian government, and an OBE in 1985 and a KBE in 2002 from the British Crown.

Sir Mark Tully's legacy extends far beyond his journalistic achievements; he was a cultural ambassador who fostered understanding and appreciation between two nations. His unwavering commitment to objective reporting, combined with his genuine affection for India, made him a beloved and trusted voice. He will be remembered not just as a journalist, but as a true friend of India, whose life exemplified a profound dedication to storytelling and cross-cultural dialogue.