Journalism is a sacred profession that guides society intellectually, raises public awareness, and gives a voice to truth and justice. Lasting respect and recognition in this field are earned only by those who uphold integrity, sincerity, courage, strong moral character, and professional excellence. In the journalistic history of Khushab District, if anyone truly deserves the title of “Father of Journalism” and “A Source of Pride”, it is the highly respected Malik Ghulam Muhammad Khichi (G.M. Khichi).
Allah Almighty has blessed G.M. Khichi with exceptional abilities, profound insight, extensive knowledge, and an outstanding writing style. His journalism reflects truthfulness, dignity, balance, and intellectual depth. Throughout his distinguished career, he has remained committed to ethical principles, promoting constructive, responsible, and balanced journalism. His life and work continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration for young journalists.
Although his ancestral roots are in Khichi/Mianwali, he has been residing in Khushab for several decades, making the district an integral part of his identity. He has devoted the greater part of his professional life to serving the people of Khushab, highlighting public issues, and enhancing the dignity of journalism. As a result, any account of Khushab’s journalistic history remains incomplete without acknowledging the invaluable contributions of G.M. Khichi.
For many years, Malik Ghulam Muhammad Khichi has been associated with both national and regional media organizations. Through Daily Jang, Geo News, and several regional newspapers, he has rendered remarkable services to journalism. His news reports, analytical articles, and editorials have consistently upheld the principles of factual reporting, impartiality, and public interest, earning him widespread respect and credibility among both the public and the journalistic community.
It is a matter of great pride for me that I, Raja Noor Elahi Atif, along with many journalists from Khushab District, have had the privilege of being mentored by G.M. Khichi. He has always encouraged and guided aspiring journalists, teaching them the fundamental principles of journalism, professional ethics, honesty, patience, and responsibility. In this regard, he is not merely a senior journalist but an institution, a school of thought, and a practical academy in himself.
Another remarkable aspect of G.M. Khichi’s personality is his exemplary moral character, humility, refined manners, and wide circle of friends and admirers. He is held in high esteem by people from all walks of life, including the social, educational, literary, journalistic, political, religious, and business communities. Through kindness, tolerance, sincerity, and compassion, he has earned the affection and respect of countless people, which is perhaps his greatest achievement.
G.M. Khichi has also maintained long-standing and dignified relations with the prominent Awan political family. He served as a trusted confidant of the elders of Member of the National Assembly Malik Shakir Bashir Awan, and the entire Awan family continues to hold him in the highest regard. Likewise, former Senator Dr. Ghaus Muhammad Khan Niazi, along with many distinguished political figures of Khushab District, deeply respects his integrity and contributions. This admiration is not the result of any official position but a sincere acknowledgment of his lifelong honesty, exemplary character, and selfless service.
Throughout his career, G.M. Khichi has firmly believed that the true purpose of journalism is to bring about positive social change, promote public awareness, and present facts with fairness and impartiality. He has never allowed personal interests to overshadow journalistic ethics and has consistently upheld the values of truth, integrity, and responsible reporting.
The reality is that the qualities and achievements of such an extraordinary and multifaceted personality cannot be fully described within the limits of a single article. Even an entire book would struggle to encompass the breadth of his services, character, and journalistic legacy. This brief tribute is, therefore, a humble attempt to acknowledge his outstanding contributions, noble character, and lifelong dedication to journalism.
May Allah Almighty bless Malik Ghulam Muhammad Khichi (G.M. Khichi), the Pride of Khushab and the Father of Journalism, with excellent health, happiness, honor, continued success, and a long life. May He keep his protective presence over all of us and enable him to continue illuminating the path of journalism with his wisdom, experience, and guidance for many years to come.
