Despite not many people believing that a journalist's work can become the driving force behind social change, history has proven otherwise. Since the beginning journalists, whether it is by holding leaders accountable, exposing the abuses on human rights or even giving a powerful voice to the people, they have played a crucial role in being the catalyst behind positive change in our society.
Their drive for fighting against injustice and ending corruption have held them in high regard amongst the people who have been benefited by their influence and hard work. A prime example of such an individual is none other than Prem Baniya - a multi-talented, strong and distinguished individual within the media sector, known for making waves amongst the people of Nepal. He is also a successful journalist who has been actively engaged within the communication media in Nepal for almost two decades, identifying social crises and putting an end to their harmful impacts.
He has also been popularly known for his work in the documentary industry. Some of his highly acclaimed documentaries include “Atmabal Ko Jwarbhata” which talks about the story of Gyanendra Shah, the former King of Nepal and “Rato Hiun” - which centers around the story of yaks that died in the snow in Dolpa District.
Additionally, Baniya has also been working on many research-based stories that serve to help us better understand and become aware of the happenings in Nepal. For example, over the years of his research, he has been traveling to remote villages and settlements in various parts of the country, using what he sees and learns as important materials for his documentaries. You can see an example of his research in the documentary “Chaupadi” and another one focused on the growing potential of tourism in Rara and Shefoksudo.
Moreover, Baniya presently works at Jaya Swabhiman (jayaswabhiman.com) - a highly acclaimed patriotic movement in the history of Nepal which focuses on topics of self-esteem, dignity and nationalism issues and many other social problems. Through Power News, Baniya has conducted over two thousand programs, additionally, he also had worked on investigative programs called “Khabar Bhitrako Khabar” which was related to an in-depth analysis that researched about the national social issues of Nepal.
Additionally, his constant research, investigation and determined hard work have enabled many Nepali citizens, affected by national disasters, to gain relief and assistance through his programs.
One of his most notable works from his programs at Power News revolves around the extreme flood that occurred in 2014 caused by River Mahakali in Dachula District in Nepal.
The catastrophe caused hundreds of people to lose their homes from the destruction that ensued from the flood, leaving them homeless and with no way of helping themselves.
This is when Baniya stepped in and reported in detail the events that occurred during this time on television and raised 2.8 million rupees for the cause. The money was distributed among the people who needed relief materials and assistance during this horrible situation, who were grateful to Baniya for using his platform to bring people together for a powerful cause.