Rajdeep Sardesai Twitter, Wife, Book, Father, Net worth, Biography

Reading Time: 12 minutesRajdeep Sardesai is one of India’s most recognizable faces in the world of journalism, known for his sharp political insights and decades of media experience. Born on May 24, 1965, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, he hails from a well-known Goan family with deep roots in sports and education. His father, Dilip Sardesai, was a legendary Indian

Rajdeep Sardesai

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Rajdeep Sardesai Twitter, Wife, Book, Father, Net worth, Biography

Quick Facts

FULL NAME	Rajdeep Sardesai
POPULAR NAME	Rajdeep
PROFESSION	News Anchor, Journalist
DATE OF BIRTH	May 24, 1965
NATIONALITY	Indian
HEIGHT	5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
HOMETOWN	Ahmedabad, Gujarat

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Rajdeep Sardesai Biography

Rajdeep Sardesai: Early Life, Education, and Physical Stats

Rajdeep Sardesai is one of India’s most recognizable faces in the world of journalism, known for his sharp political insights and decades of media experience. Born on May 24, 1965, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, he hails from a well-known Goan family with deep roots in sports and education. His father, Dilip Sardesai, was a legendary Indian Test cricketer, often credited with being one of the finest batsmen of his era, especially known for his performance in the 1971 tour of the West Indies. His mother, Nandini Sardesai, is a respected academic and former sociology professor at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Growing up in a family that valued both intellect and sportsmanship deeply influenced Rajdeep’s personal and professional life.

In terms of physical appearance, Rajdeep Sardesai is of average height, standing approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall. He has a lean build, and even in his late 50s, maintains a smart and professional look suited to his on-camera roles. His signature salt-and-pepper hair and measured voice have become familiar to television audiences across India. He has a poised and calm demeanor, which contrasts with the often heated nature of Indian political debates. While he is not particularly known for physical pursuits himself, his sports lineage and love for cricket are evident in many of his writings and interviews.

Rajdeep spent his formative years in Mumbai, where he attended the prestigious Campion School. From a young age, he exhibited a strong command over English and a natural curiosity about the world, both of which would later define his career in journalism. He then pursued his undergraduate studies at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, one of the city’s most renowned institutions. Here, he was actively involved in academics and extracurricular activities, particularly debating and sports journalism.

Following his undergraduate education, Sardesai moved to the United Kingdom to study at University College, Oxford, where he initially pursued a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE)—a popular program among future leaders and political analysts. He later went on to complete a Bachelor of Civil Law degree at Oxford as well. While at Oxford, he also played cricket at a competitive level, even representing the university in first-class matches. His time at Oxford helped refine his analytical thinking and exposed him to global political discourse, both of which would become central to his journalism style.

His academic and sporting achievements abroad, combined with his deep-rooted understanding of Indian culture and politics, gave him a unique perspective upon returning to India. Instead of pursuing law, which was a natural path given his qualifications, he chose to enter the field of journalism—a decision that would eventually make him one of the most respected and talked-about voices in Indian media.

Rajdeep Sardesai: Age, Caste, Religion, Sun Sign, Hometown, Birthplace, and Hobbies

Rajdeep Sardesai, a veteran journalist and political commentator, is widely known for his sharp political analysis and long-standing presence in Indian television media. As of April 2025, he is 59 years old, having been born on May 24, 1965. His birthday places him under the Gemini sun sign—a zodiac often associated with communication, curiosity, and adaptability, traits that align well with his profession in journalism.

Rajdeep was born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, but his family traces its roots to Goa, which he considers his hometown. He grew up in Mumbai, which played a key role in shaping his early education and outlook. Despite being born in Gujarat and educated in Maharashtra, Rajdeep proudly identifies with his Goan heritage. His father, the late Dilip Sardesai, was a legendary Indian cricketer originally from Goa, and his mother, Nandini Sardesai, was a sociology professor. This unique mix of academia and sports formed a strong cultural foundation for Rajdeep’s upbringing.

In terms of caste, Rajdeep Sardesai belongs to the Chitrapur Saraswat Brahmin community—a sub-group of Saraswat Brahmins primarily found in Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. Though caste is not something he emphasizes publicly, it is a part of his cultural identity and heritage. When it comes to religion, Rajdeep follows Hinduism, the religion practiced by his family, although his approach is generally liberal and secular. As a journalist, he is known for maintaining a critical and balanced stance on religious and political matters, often advocating for a secular and inclusive India.

Though best known for his work in television news and political commentary, Rajdeep has a wide range of hobbies and interests outside of journalism. One of his lifelong passions is cricket, no surprise considering his father’s legacy. He played cricket seriously in his youth, even representing Oxford University in first-class matches during his time in England. His love for the game continues to this day, and he often tweets and writes about cricket, especially during major tournaments like the ICC World Cup or IPL.

Apart from cricket, Rajdeep is an avid reader and writer. He enjoys reading political biographies, history, and non-fiction. This deep interest in politics and social issues translates into his writing—he has authored two prominent books: “2014: The Election That Changed India” and “Newsman: Tracking India in the Modi Era”. His writing style reflects his deep understanding of Indian democracy, political history, and media.

Another hobby of his is traveling, especially to places of historical or cultural interest. He also enjoys engaging in debates and panel discussions, even outside of work, often participating in college fests, lit fests, and public forums to talk about journalism, free speech, and media ethics.

Overall, Rajdeep Sardesai is a well-rounded individual with strong cultural roots, intellectual interests, and a deep commitment to his profession. His personality reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, shaped by his upbringing, education, and the changing landscape of Indian media.

Rajdeep Sardesai: Family – Mother, Father, Children, Wife, Siblings, and More

Rajdeep Sardesai comes from a well-known and accomplished Indian family that blends sports, academia, and journalism. His roots lie in Goa, and his family has long been respected in both sporting and intellectual circles. The values instilled in him from childhood have shaped his personality and his approach to journalism—analytical, disciplined, and often outspoken.

His father, the late Dilip Sardesai, was a legendary Indian Test cricketer. Known as one of the finest batsmen of his era, Dilip Sardesai is remembered for his crucial performance during the 1971 India tour of the West Indies, which played a significant role in establishing India as a competitive team in international cricket. His cricketing legacy brought immense pride to the family and continues to inspire Rajdeep’s own deep love for the sport. Dilip Sardesai passed away in 2007, but his memory and influence remain an important part of Rajdeep’s public persona.

Rajdeep’s mother, Nandini Sardesai, is a respected academic and sociologist. She was a professor of sociology at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and is known for her scholarly work and contributions to the study of Indian society. An independent-minded and intellectually strong woman, she has played a vital role in Rajdeep’s upbringing. Her academic discipline, curiosity, and belief in education clearly influenced Rajdeep, who has always balanced media work with informed commentary and writing.

Rajdeep Sardesai is married to Sagarika Ghose, a fellow journalist, columnist, and author. Like Rajdeep, Sagarika has worked with major news outlets, including CNN-IBN and Outlook, and has authored several books, including “Indira: India’s Most Powerful Prime Minister.” The couple is known as one of India’s most high-profile media power couples. Their professional collaboration has often extended to TV debates and media panels, although they maintain independent editorial voices. The marriage is considered strong and intellectually grounded, with mutual respect at its core.

Together, Rajdeep and Sagarika have two children—a son and a daughter. While the names and details of their children are kept mostly private to maintain their personal lives, Rajdeep occasionally shares snippets about his family life on social media, particularly during birthdays or family milestones. He has mentioned that he values spending time with his kids and is keen on giving them a grounded and well-informed upbringing.

There has been no public information or credible reports about Rajdeep Sardesai having a girlfriend or extramarital affairs. His relationship with Sagarika Ghose has remained consistent in the public eye, and there have been no known controversies surrounding his personal life in that regard.

As for siblings, Rajdeep is known to be an only child, which is perhaps why he shares such a close bond with both his parents. His admiration for his father’s cricketing achievements and his mother’s academic legacy often comes through in interviews and articles.

In summary, Rajdeep Sardesai’s family background is a blend of sports, academia, and media. He is part of a generation of Indian professionals shaped by discipline, intellectual freedom, and strong familial values. His wife, children, and late parents remain pillars of strength in his personal journey.

Rajdeep Sardesai is one of the most prominent and respected names in Indian journalism. With a career spanning over three decades, he has been a powerful voice in political reporting, election coverage, and editorial analysis. His sharp opinions, on-the-ground reporting, and insightful interviews have earned him both admiration and criticism across political and media circles. Here’s a deep dive into his journey through the world of news, the media houses he’s worked with, the shows he’s hosted, accolades he has earned, and details about his earnings and financial standing.

Career Overview

Rajdeep Sardesai began his professional journey not in journalism but in law, having studied at University College, Oxford. However, his passion for current affairs, debate, and writing pulled him into journalism soon after he returned to India.

His career in journalism officially began in 1988 with The Times of India, where he worked as the city editor for the newspaper’s Mumbai edition. This foundational period helped him understand the nuances of print journalism. However, he soon moved to television, which was emerging as a dominant force in news media in the 1990s.

NDTV and Early TV Success

Rajdeep joined NDTV (New Delhi Television) in the early 1990s, where he spent over a decade and became one of the most recognizable faces on Indian television. At NDTV, he served as Political Editor and later as Managing Editor. He co-anchored several key news bulletins and was widely appreciated for his work during general elections and budget sessions.

One of his most popular programs during this time was “The Big Fight”, a political debate show that aired on NDTV. It became iconic for its intense yet balanced discussions and featured major politicians, analysts, and public figures.

CNN-IBN and Founding His Own Channel

In 2005, Rajdeep made a major career move by launching his own news channel. He teamed up with Global Broadcast News (GBN) and CNN to create CNN-IBN (now CNN-News18). He took on the role of Editor-in-Chief and was one of the key figures behind the channel’s content strategy and editorial line. Under his leadership, CNN-IBN became one of India’s top English news channels within a few years of its launch.

His presence on screen during breaking news, high-voltage political events, and elections solidified his reputation as a top-tier journalist. His program, “Face the Nation”, was one of the flagship shows of CNN-IBN and featured hard-hitting interviews and debates.

However, in 2014, he resigned from CNN-IBN following the takeover of the Network18 Group by Reliance Industries, citing editorial independence concerns.

India Today Group

Soon after leaving CNN-IBN, Rajdeep joined the India Today Group as Consulting Editor. Since then, he has been anchoring key shows on India Today TV, including “News Today with Rajdeep Sardesai” and “Elections on My Plate” (a special series combining food and election field reporting). He continues to cover elections extensively and remains one of the most recognizable faces in political journalism.

His election analysis, exit poll nights, and ground reporting are followed by millions, and he is often a go-to expert for decoding complex political developments.

Books and Writing

In addition to his work on television, Rajdeep is also a published author. His books include:

“2014: The Election that Changed India” – a bestselling account of the 2014 general elections and the rise of Narendra Modi.
“Newsman: Tracking India in the Modi Era” – a personal memoir and political reflection on the changing face of Indian media and politics.

He also writes regular columns in newspapers and online platforms, offering commentary on politics, elections, media ethics, and governance.

Awards and Recognitions

Rajdeep Sardesai has received several awards for his contributions to journalism over the years. Some of the most notable include:

Padma Shri (2008): One of India’s highest civilian honors, awarded for his excellence in the field of journalism.
Asian Television Award for Best Anchor.
International Broadcasters Award for his coverage of the 2002 Gujarat riots.
ENBA Award for Best Anchor on multiple occasions.
Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award (shared).
Indian Television Academy Awards in various categories.

These awards reflect not only his credibility and consistency as a journalist but also his commitment to high standards in news reporting.

Salary and Net Worth

While exact figures are often private, Rajdeep Sardesai is among the highest-paid journalists in India. His salary as a senior editor and prime-time anchor at India Today is estimated to be in the range of ₹2 to ₹3 crore per year (approximately $250,000 to $350,000 USD), including show hosting fees, consulting roles, book royalties, and speaking engagements.

He also earns from column writing, public lectures, and book sales, which adds to his annual income. As an established face in Indian media, he is frequently invited to journalism festivals, universities, and corporate events, where he speaks on topics ranging from press freedom to political reform.

His net worth is estimated to be around ₹20 to ₹25 crore (roughly $2.5 to $3 million USD), based on public information, assets, earnings, and investments. Unlike many celebrity journalists, Rajdeep maintains a relatively low-key lifestyle and avoids flaunting wealth or material possessions.

Media Presence and Influence

Rajdeep is highly active on Twitter (now X), with over 8 million followers, where he shares real-time updates, political opinions, and breaking news insights. His digital presence makes him one of the most followed journalists in the country.

He is often invited for panel discussions, international journalism conferences, and media ethics forums, where he talks about the challenges facing Indian media, the impact of digital platforms, and the role of journalists in a democracy.

Despite criticism from both political camps at times, he remains a committed voice for press freedom, democratic values, and responsible journalism.

Conclusion

Rajdeep Sardesai’s career is a testimony to the evolution of Indian journalism—from the print era to the 24×7 news cycle and now into the digital age. With decades of experience, prestigious awards, bestselling books, and a strong voice in public discourse, he has carved a unique space for himself in India’s media landscape.

Whether one agrees with his views or not, there’s no denying his influence in shaping how political news is covered and consumed in modern India. As journalism continues to face challenges in the digital and political era, voices like Rajdeep’s serve as both watchdog and conscience of the Fourth Estate.

Rajdeep Sardesai – List of Favorite Things & People

Favorite Cricketer:

Dilip Sardesai (his father)
Sunil Gavaskar
Sachin Tendulkar

Favorite Sports:

Cricket
Football

Favorite Football Club:

Manchester United

Favorite Journalist/Influences:

Vinod Mehta
N. Ram
Kuldip Nayar

Favorite Politicians (Admired or Known to Respect):

Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Manmohan Singh
Arun Jaitley (respected across party lines)

Favorite Books:

India After Gandhi by Ramachandra Guha
The Idea of India by Sunil Khilnani

Favorite Authors:

Ramachandra Guha
George Orwell
William Dalrymple

Favorite Food:

Goan Fish Curry
Vada Pav (Mumbai street food)

Favorite Drink:

Cutting Chai

Favorite Cities:

Mumbai
Panaji (Goa)
Oxford

Favorite Pastimes:

Reading
Watching cricket
Political debates
Traveling

Favorite TV Shows (Genres):

Political dramas
News documentaries
Historical series

Favorite Quote Themes:

Democracy
Free press
Secularism

FAQs

Sure! Here are 25 FAQs about Rajdeep Sardesai, the Indian journalist, news anchor, and author:

General Background

Who is Rajdeep Sardesai?
Rajdeep Sardesai is a senior Indian journalist, news anchor, author, and political commentator known for his work in Indian television journalism.
When was Rajdeep Sardesai born?
He was born on May 24, 1965.
Where is Rajdeep Sardesai from?
He was born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, but has lived and worked in various cities, including Mumbai and New Delhi.
What is Rajdeep Sardesai’s educational background?
He studied at Campion School (Mumbai) and later went to St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. He then studied law at University College, Oxford, and also earned a degree in PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics).
Is Rajdeep Sardesai a lawyer?
He holds a degree in law from Oxford, but he pursued a career in journalism instead of practicing law.

Career in Journalism

How did Rajdeep Sardesai start his journalism career?
He began his journalism career with The Times of India before moving to NDTV.
What role did he play at NDTV?
At NDTV, he was a political editor and also anchored popular shows such as The Big Fight.
What is CNN-IBN?
CNN-IBN (now CNN-News18) is an English news channel that Rajdeep helped launch in 2005 as Editor-in-Chief.
Why did Rajdeep Sardesai leave CNN-IBN?
He resigned from CNN-IBN in 2014 after Network18 was taken over by Reliance Industries.
Where does Rajdeep Sardesai work now?
He is currently a Consulting Editor with India Today Group and hosts shows on India Today TV.

Books and Writing

Has Rajdeep Sardesai written any books?
Yes, he is the author of “2014: The Election that Changed India” and “Newsman: Tracking India in the Modi Era”.
What is “2014: The Election that Changed India” about?
It’s a detailed account of the 2014 Indian general elections and the rise of Narendra Modi.
Does he write newspaper columns?
Yes, he writes regular opinion columns for newspapers and digital platforms on politics, media, and current affairs.

Family and Personal Life

Who is Rajdeep Sardesai married to?
He is married to Sagarika Ghose, who is also a well-known journalist and author.
Do Rajdeep and Sagarika have children?
Yes, they have two children.
Who is Rajdeep Sardesai’s father?
His father was Dilip Sardesai, a former Indian Test cricketer.
Is Rajdeep Sardesai related to Goa?
Yes, his family has Goan roots.

Controversies and Public Image

Has Rajdeep Sardesai been involved in any controversies?
Yes, he has occasionally been in the news for his outspoken opinions and confrontations, both online and offline.
Was Rajdeep Sardesai suspended from India Today?
In 2021, he was briefly taken off air for incorrectly tweeting about a protester’s death during the farmers’ rally, which was later clarified.
What is Rajdeep Sardesai’s political stance?
He is known for being a critical voice against all political parties and emphasizes journalistic neutrality, though critics often label him as biased.

Miscellaneous

Is Rajdeep Sardesai active on social media?
Yes, he is very active, especially on Twitter (X), where he shares news updates and opinions.
What awards has Rajdeep Sardesai won?
He has received several awards including the Padma Shri in 2008 for his contribution to journalism.
Is Rajdeep Sardesai on YouTube or digital media?
Yes, many of his debates and analysis videos appear on India Today’s YouTube channel.
What languages does Rajdeep Sardesai speak?
He is fluent in English, Hindi, and Konkani.
What are Rajdeep Sardesai’s key areas of journalism?
His primary focus is on politics, elections, media ethics, and current affairs.