The Tribune, a great teacher for all

MORE than 45 years ago, when I moved from Srinagar to Chandigarh, I looked around for a newspaper and got introduced to The Tribune. Since then, it has been my constant companion. On rare national holidays when The Tribune is not published, I feel an odd sense of loss, as though a vital part of my morning is missing. The Tribune has never been just a newspaper to me — it has been a teacher giving a daily lesson in truth and clarity. Teachers’ Day is an apt occasion to pay tribute to one of the most enlightening gurus in my life.

I always begin my reading not with the front page, but with the ‘Thought for the Day’. This brief reflection often sets the tone for my day, offering insight and calm. A few years ago, when this motivational feature was briefly discontinued, a reader’s letter brought it back — a testament to how deeply it is valued by readers like me. My next stop is the ‘On This Day…100 Years Ago’ column — a powerful reminder of our rich history and the foresight of our ancestors. From there, I move on to the Middle, followed by the editorials, opinion columns, and letters to the editor. These central pages serve as a platform where differing viewpoints are welcomed, encouraging empathy and intellectual engagement. Only after I have assimilated these thoughtful perspectives I turn to the front page and then work my way through the rest of the newspaper.

Long before search engines existed, The Tribune was our daily guide to understanding the world. Whether reporting on global affairs, national policies or local events, it continues not only to tell what happened, but also why it matters. One of its most valuable roles is educating us about our rights, responsibilities, and position in society, thereby empowering us to make smart choices — on voting day, in our communities and in our own lives. Beyond politics and policy, The Tribune brings colour to our lives through its features on arts, health, food, culture and festivals. The ‘Time Capsule’ column beautifully preserves our collective memory — a celebration of heritage and shared values that connect generations.

With growing demands, The Tribune has evolved with the times. While preserving its print legacy, it has embraced the digital era, making its content easily accessible across devices like phones, tablets and computers to meet its readers wherever they are, with a mission to educate and inform, discover new passions and stay connected with the world.

In a world full of distractions, The Tribune remains a quiet mentor — earning respect rather than demanding it. Like a seasoned teacher, it speaks the truth with dignity, fosters thought without judgment and inspires growth without noise.

In its pages, we find not just headlines, but lessons worth learning. And in an age that desperately needs knowledge and wisdom, The Tribune is a great teacher for all — young and old, progressive and conservative, city residents and villagers.