Saurabh Dwivedi Resigns from Lallantop After 12 Years, Exit Sparks Debate Over Timing
Senior journalist Saurabh Dwivedi has stepped down from the India Today Group, ending a 12-year association that played a defining role in shaping Hindi digital journalism. Dwivedi, the founding editor of The Lallantop and former editor of India Today Hindi, announced his resignation on X (formerly Twitter), sharing an Urdu couplet by poet Nasir Kazmi and expressing gratitude for the professional identity and learning he gained during his journey.
{tweet}https://x.com/saurabhtop/status/2008144261930524930{/tweet}
Dwivedi’s departure comes just days after his final broadcast on The Lallantop Show, a coincidence that has sparked widespread discussion across social media and media circles.
A Journey That Shaped Hindi Digital Media
Dwivedi joined the India Today Group as a Features Editor at aajtak.in and went on to build The Lallantop into one of India’s most influential youth-focused Hindi platforms. Known for its conversational storytelling, candid political interviews, and people-centric narratives, The Lallantop today commands a massive digital footprint, with its official YouTube channel crossing nearly 35 million subscribers.
Over the years, Dwivedi became known for his direct style, long-format discussions, and willingness to ask uncomfortable questions across political and social issues.
Last Broadcast and Public Reaction
In his final episode aired on January 2, 2026, Dwivedi strongly criticised the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government over the Indore contaminated water tragedy, where polluted drinking water was linked to multiple deaths. He highlighted official warnings that had allegedly gone unaddressed for months and questioned accountability within the system.
The same broadcast also discussed a separate controversy involving the IPL, where Dwivedi questioned the selective public criticism surrounding the exit of a Bangladeshi cricketer from the tournament, while senior cricket administrators faced little scrutiny.
While no official connection has been drawn between the broadcast and his resignation, the close timing has led to intense public speculation online.
India Today Group’s Response
The India Today Group acknowledged Dwivedi’s contribution and praised his tenure, without referring to any editorial disagreements or internal issues. No statement has suggested that his exit was linked to content or political pressure.
What Comes Next
In his resignation note, Dwivedi hinted at a pause, reflection, and a “new journey” ahead, without detailing future plans. Media observers note that his exit marks the end of an era for Hindi digital journalism, regardless of what comes next.
A link to Dwivedi’s final broadcast remains publicly available on YouTube:
Our Thoughts
Saurabh Dwivedi’s resignation has triggered debate because of who he is and what The Lallantop came to represent — a platform that normalised tough questions in Hindi digital media. While speculation is inevitable, what remains undisputed is his influence on a generation of viewers and journalists. His exit underscores how closely journalism, power, and public trust are watched in today’s media landscape.
