Udayam (newspaper)

Udayam (transl. Dawn) was a Telugu-language daily newspaper in India, founded in 1984 by film director Dasari Narayana Rao. Known for its editorial advocacy of marginalized communities, anti-corruption, and democratic ideals, Udayam quickly garnered a strong readership, achieving a circulation of 2,24,000 copies within its first month. This rapid growth established it as the second-most circulated newspaper in Andhra Pradesh at the time, noted especially for its investigative journalism.

Published by Taraka Prabhu Publishers, Dasari Narayana Rao served as chairman, with Ramakrishna Prasad as managing director. The newspaper's first chief editor was A. B. K. Prasad, who served until 1985, followed by notable figures such as K. N. Y. Patanjali and Potturi Venkateswara Rao. Despite its early success, Udayam faced financial challenges that led to its transfer of ownership to businessman and politician Magunta Subbarama Reddy in the early 1990s. Plans for expansion were hindered by economic constraints, and by 1995, declining circulation and mounting debts forced the newspaper to cease operations. Attempts to revive the newspaper in subsequent years, including initiatives led by Dasari Narayana Rao himself, were unsuccessful.

Udayam is remembered for its editorial independence, inclusive work culture, and contribution to Telugu journalism. The newspaper was known for its investigative reporting, advocacy for social justice, and efforts to highlight the rights of marginalized communities and expose corruption.