Lifelong chronicler whose baritone, prose beamed a country’s triumphs and tribulations to the world

{ MARK TULLY } 1935-2026

- Dhrubo Jyoti

Sir William Mark Tully, among the most famous chroniclers of India who helmed the BBC in India for two decades and became an authoritative voice to millions of people at defining moments in the journey of the world’s largest democracy, died on Sunday. He was 90.

Born in erstwhile Calcutta during the British Raj in 1935, Tully made India his home and his career, becoming the gold standard for a foreign correspondent. For decades, his rich baritone became a marker for commentary on India as the veteran journalist covered events as varied as the Bangladesh war, the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, the assassinations of Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, and the demolition of the Babri Masjid.

He was also a longtime Sunday columnist for this newspaper.

A recipient of the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri and Knighthood, Tully was admitted to the Max Hospital at Saket in south Delhi on January 21.

“Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, confirms with deep sadness the passing of Mr William Mark Tully on January 25, 2026, at 2:35 pm. The cause of death was multi-organ failure following a stroke. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, loved ones, and all those affected by his passing,” the hospital said in a statement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the death. “Saddened by the passing of Sir Mark Tully, a towering voice of journalism. His connect with India and the people of our nation was reflected in his works,” he said on X.

“His reporting and insights have left an enduring mark on public discourse. Condolences to his family, friends and many admirers,” Modi added.