Palki Sharma Upadhyay: The Journalist Who was chosen by journalism

In the bustling world of Indian journalism, few names stand out as prominently as Palki Sharma Upadhyay. She is known for her articulate storytelling, unwavering dedication to truth, and undeniable charm.

Who is Palki Sharma?

Palki Sharma is one of India’s most beloved journalists and news anchors. Her journey, however, is as layered and nuanced as the stories she so deftly tells.

Early life and Education

Palki was born on May 29, 1982, in Pilani, Rajasthan, and raised in Delhi, she has woven together a life of ambition, resilience, and personal passion.

Palki grew up in a close-knit family environment, with values rooted in heritage and culture. Her father is a former Indian cricketer, and her mother is a famous beautician, both played instrumental roles in nurturing her ambitions. One story she cherishes deeply is that of her parents' love and their marriage. She has shared that she hopes one day to pen down the captivating tale of their relationship.

Career

Palki Sharma Upadhyay’s journey into journalism was accidental—a career that chose her rather than the other way around. Palki had a broad range of interests from a young age, she was good at so many things. She was confused and not sure about her career option. Her father encouraged her to pursue a career in medicine, but Palki decided to pursue English. She began writing for local newspapers during her college years, finding joy and purpose in her words.

In her second year, Palki attended an event that marked the beginning of her journalism career. A representative from Doordarshan approached her with a job offer as a news anchor with a pay of ₹800 in 2002. Speaking Hindi fluently on air proved challenging at first, but this experience sparked her interest in journalism, and she soon felt drawn to the field.

Her journey wasn’t smooth—especially when trying to secure opportunities in print journalism. Determined, Palki managed to find the contact information for an editor at Hindustan Times (HT). She submitted her article and hoped for publication, but initially received no response. After relentless effort, she finally received a call from HT, marking the beginning of her career as a Staff Writer. During this time, she also continued anchoring on Doordarshan’s Rajasthan Samachar. Her role was not limited to anchoring; she took on the tasks of researching, writing, and formatting stories, often spending long hours perfecting her craft.

Her voice grew stronger with time, and by May 2005, she had joined CNN-News18 as an Anchor and Senior Editor. Over the course of her 11-year tenure, she not only conducted interviews with some of the most notable personalities in politics, business, and entertainment but also honed her ability to compress complex issues into accessible narratives for viewers.

It was during these years that Palki received the "Best News Reader Award" in 2007, a milestone that reflected her dedication and skill in bringing news to the masses with authenticity and empathy.

Palki Sharma Family and Personal Life

Despite her busy career, she has always placed immense value on family. Palki Sharma married to Sanket Upadhyay in 2008 and together they have a child. The couple's journey has been one of mutual respect and support, with Sanket understanding and encouraging her demanding career in media. In a society that often discourages women from working odd hours, Palki’s family stood by her.

Palki Sharma Business

Alongside her journalistic endeavours, Palki explored her passion for sarees. She founded her own designer saree brand called "Reyva." Her love for sarees reflects her appreciation for India’s cultural heritage and her desire to create something meaningful. 

Through Reyva, she not only celebrates traditional attire but also finds a creative outlet that resonates with her values.

Palki Sharma Net worth

Palki Sharma's net worth is around $4 million, which she does not confirm, so it is just an estimate. 

Breaking Boundaries and Pursuing New Ventures

In 2016, Palki joined iTV Network, where she continued to shape public opinion through her powerful debates on politics, policies, and societal issues. 

Her next big move came in 2019 when she joined WION as the Managing Editor. It was here that she hosted "Gravitas," a show that gained global recognition and won her the "Best International News Show in English" award in 2020. At WION, Palki was instrumental in bringing international issues into Indian living rooms, giving viewers insight into global events that often went overlooked.

In September 2022, Palki made another surprising career shift, leaving WION and joining Firstpost. Her new shows, "Flashback" and "Between the Lines," further highlight her knack for simplifying complex topics while captivating audiences. Her career, spanning over two decades, speaks to her adaptability and continuous desire to grow as a journalist.

Palki is a multi-talented individual, whose interests extend far beyond journalism. In her leisure time, she loves painting pots and engaging in other artistic pursuits.

Palki’s entry into journalism may have been unexpected, but her passion for storytelling and pursuit of truth quickly made it clear that she was destined for this path. Her resilience, creativity, and dedication not only helped her break into the industry but also paved the way for an illustrious career that continues to inspire.