Author Introduction 

Palagummi Sainath is an Indian journalist, author, and educator, widely regarded as India’s foremost chronicler of rural poverty and agrarian crises. His groundbreaking work has given voice to India’s marginalized communities.

Early Life & Background

Born in 1957 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Sainath studied history at Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. Influenced by his grandfather, freedom fighter V.V. Giri (former President of India), he developed a passion for social justice and rural reporting.

Writing Journey

Sainath began his journalism career in mainstream media but soon focused on grassroots reporting. His book Everybody Loves a Good Drought (1996) documented systemic poverty and inequality in rural India through investigative reportage.

Published Works

• Everybody Loves a Good Drought (1996).
• Numerous journalistic essays and reports on rural India, farmer suicides, and agrarian distress.
  

Writing Style & Themes

Sainath’s writing is hard-hitting, compassionate, and investigative. His themes center on poverty, inequality, agrarian crises, and the human cost of development.

Achievements & Recognition

• Ramon Magsaysay Award for Journalism (2007).
• Amnesty International Global Human Rights Journalism Prize.
• Founder-editor of the People’s Archive of Rural India (PARI).
  

Beyond Writing

Sainath is a public speaker and educator, advocating for rural issues and mentoring young journalists.

Quotes / Philosophy

“Journalism is for the people without power. Everything else is public relations.”