A Memorable Encounter with Sir Mark Tully

Shraddha Belsaray-Kharkar recalls her 1991 encounter with veteran journalist Sir Mark Tully, who visited her for information on a government project. Despite some bureaucratic hurdles, their meeting led to a BBC report highlighting rehabilitation work. Her memories of Tully resurface upon hearing news of his passing.

Shraddha Belsaray-Kharkar, a retired director from Maharashtra Government's information department, vividly recalls her 1991 meeting with Sir Mark Tully. During her tenure as District Information Officer in Dhule, Tully visited her seeking insights on the Sardar Sarovar project.

Belsaray-Kharkar reminisced how she offered Indian snacks and facilitated Tully's visit to see rehabilitation work. Despite bureaucratic reprimands for speaking to the media, her collaboration with Tully resulted in positive BBC coverage.

Following news of Tully's death at 90 in Delhi, she fondly remembered his professionalism and dedication, reflecting on the impact of their brief encounter.

(With inputs from agencies.)