The passing of Vishant Vaze has robbed Goa of one of its most dedicated, knowledgeable and uncompromising journalists — a true voice of the hinterland whose understanding of his region went far beyond the demands of everyday reporting.

Vaze belonged to that increasingly rare generation of mofussil journalists who knew the pulse of the area they covered. Particularly when it came to Bicholim and Sattari talukas, he could fittingly be described as a walking encyclopedia. His knowledge was not confined to political developments or breaking news. He possessed a deep and nuanced understanding of Goa’s socio-economic realities, its people, traditions, cultural movements and rich literary heritage.

He was equally passionate about the environment. His concern for nature was neither fashionable nor merely theoretical. Environmental consciousness was reflected in his everyday life and in the causes he chose to champion through his journalism.

As a newsperson, Vishant Vaze was steadfast and uncompromising. He was a no-nonsense journalist who refused to bow before authority, irrespective of whether he was dealing with senior bureaucrats, influential politicians or even institutions of the judiciary.

His commitment was to journalism and to the democratic values India represents.

Throughout his professional career, he maintained an unblemished reputation. He carried no personal enmity against anyone, yet he understood the importance of maintaining a dignified distance from individuals with vested interests. It was this ability to remain independent that gave credibility and strength to his journalism.

Vaze understood the enormous responsibility that comes with wielding a journalist’s pen. For him, journalism was never a weapon for settling personal scores. He used his writing for the larger welfare of society and never to damage India’s social fabric or malign individuals out of personal malice.

That distinction is particularly important in an era when journalism often finds itself under pressure from political, commercial and other vested interests.

Behind the tough, principled newsperson was also a fine human being — dependable, knowledgeable and deeply committed to the people and the region he reported on.

For me, his death is also a profound personal loss. I have lost a trusted lieutenant, someone whose journalistic judgement, integrity and knowledge could be relied upon.

But the loss extends much further.

With the demise of Vishant Vaze, Goa has lost an iconic and upright journalist — a dedicated chronicler of the hinterland who remained faithful to the fundamental values of his profession until the end.

His work, his integrity and his commitment to fearless journalism will remain his enduring legacy.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Mr.Sandesh Prabhudesai
Writer/ Senior Journalist