Protecting Heritage Is Not Just News—It Is Our Journalistic Responsibility

Editorial
Protecting Heritage Is Not Just News—It Is Our Journalistic Responsibility

✍️ Tajimnoor Kaur

Editor, Nazrana Times

The greatest recognition for any media organization is not measured by awards or certificates of appreciation, but by the trust that society and institutions place in its journalism. The letter of appreciation sent by the Jain Heritage Foundation, New Delhi, to Ali Imran Chattha, Bureau Chief (Pakistan) and Research Author of Nazrana Times, is more than an acknowledgment of our work—it is a reaffirmation of the journalistic values that Nazrana Times has always upheld.

For several years, Nazrana Times has consistently reported on the condition of historic Jain temples, Gurdwaras, Hindu temples, Sufi shrines, and other religious heritage sites in Pakistan through factual, balanced, and research-based journalism. Our objective has never been to create sensational headlines, but to draw attention to a shared cultural heritage that belongs not to one nation or one faith alone, but to the collective history of South Asia.

In its letter, the Jain Heritage Foundation recognized that Nazrana Times’ continuous and factual coverage has brought the deteriorating condition of Pakistan’s historic Jain religious sites to international attention. According to the Foundation, this awareness has also contributed to encouraging governmental initiatives aimed at the restoration and preservation of these invaluable monuments. It is a matter of great pride that our journalism has been acknowledged as playing a constructive and responsible role in heritage conservation.

In an era where much of the media is driven by breaking news and controversy, stories related to history, culture, and heritage often receive limited attention. Nazrana Times firmly believes that if we fail to preserve our shared historical legacy today, future generations will lose not only magnificent monuments but also an important part of their cultural identity.

We believe that the role of a journalist extends far beyond reporting daily events. Journalism must also bring attention to issues that are vital to society, history, and humanity. If a news report helps restore a historic place of worship, revives a heritage monument, or contributes to safeguarding a community’s cultural legacy, then that represents one of the highest achievements of responsible journalism.

On behalf of Nazrana Times, we sincerely thank the Jain Heritage Foundation, New Delhi, for recognizing our efforts and appreciating our coverage. This honor belongs to our entire editorial team, our Pakistan Bureau, and especially to Ali Imran Chattha, whose dedication, research-based reporting, and commitment to factual journalism have played a significant role in highlighting this important issue.

We also reaffirm our commitment that Nazrana Times will continue to support every genuine effort aimed at preserving historical and religious heritage, irrespective of religion, nationality, or geographical boundaries. Wherever the preservation of our shared heritage becomes a matter of concern, Nazrana Times will stand with its pen, its camera, and its unwavering commitment to truth.

We firmly believe that the protection of heritage is not the responsibility of any single religion—it is a shared responsibility of all humanity. The duty of the media is not only to report the news but also to safeguard the values that unite societies. This remains the editorial philosophy of Nazrana Times and will continue to guide our mission in the years ahead.

Tajimnoor Kaur
Editor
Nazrana Times