The Rise of Atideb Sarkar: Steering ABP Group's legacy into the future

Atideb Sarkar’s ascent to the role of Chief Editor and Publisher of the ABP Group in 2021 marked a landmark move in the history of one of India’s largest media conglomerates. 

Atideb Sarkar began his career at ABP Group in November 2010 as a newsdesk trainee at The Telegraph, one of the group's flagship newspapers. His journey from a trainee to the role of Chief Editor and Publisher is a testament to his dedication and deep understanding of the industry. 

Over the years, Atideb Sarkar took on increasing responsibilities across various functions within the group, gaining experience in Editorial, Finance, Strategy, and Television. His early years were spent learning the nuances of both print and television, equipping him with a broad and strategic understanding of the media landscape.

His first major leadership role came in April 2012, when he was appointed Manager of Finance, a position he held for just over a year. By April 2013, he was promoted to General Manager of Strategy, and his role in shaping the group’s future became more prominent. By April 2014, he had risen to Associate Vice President of Strategy, further strengthening his grip on the operational and strategic aspects of the business. His pivotal role continued to grow when, in November 2015, he was appointed Executive Director, a position that gave him a seat at the decision-making table and positioned him at the heart of ABP’s operations.

During his time as Executive Director, Atideb Sarkar was instrumental in shaping the company’s television division, guiding its strategic direction and navigating the challenges posed by the rapidly evolving media landscape. Under his leadership, ABP Group's television portfolio flourished, with channels like ABP News (Hindi), ABP Ananda (Bengali), ABP Majha (Marathi) and ABP Ashmita (Gujarati) gaining significant traction. His vision also expanded the group’s digital presence, culminating in the launch of ABP Desam and ABP Nadu.

In July 2021, Atideb Sarkar was appointed Chief Editor and Publisher, formally taking over the editorial and business reins of the company. This marked the culmination of more than a decade of hands-on experience across various facets of the business. 

His father, Arup Sarkar, stepped into an advisory role as "nestor," completing a generational shift in leadership. Atideb Sarkar’s leadership today signals a blend of tradition and innovation, as he seeks to uphold the values of the ABP Group while also navigating it into the future of media.

ABP Group’s vast empire includes publications like Anandabazar Patrika and The Telegraph, two of India’s most influential newspapers. Under Atideb’s leadership, ABP has continued to expand its influence in both television and digital platforms. His approach to broadening ABP's digital footprint reflects his understanding of modern media consumption, which increasingly leans toward digital platforms. Atideb's strategy has helped strengthen ABP's position not only in traditional media but also in regional digital markets, a vision that signals his forward-thinking approach to leadership.

While Atideb Sarkar took the helm, his predecessors have left an indelible mark on ABP’s legacy. His uncle, Aveek Sarkar, was the editor-in-chief of the group for over three decades, during which time he built ABP’s reputation for editorial integrity and excellence. 

Atideb Sarkar’s rise within ABP is not just a reflection of familial succession but also of his ability to navigate the complexities of modern media. His experience also extends beyond ABP, having interned at the Financial Times in London. Academically, he has built a strong foundation with a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Economics from Warwick University, an M.Sc. in Economics from University College London, and an MBA from Imperial College London. He has also completed the Senior Executive Programme at London Business School and the Owner/President Management Programme at Harvard Business School.