Former Femina Editor Vimla Patil, Veteran Media Personality and Author, Passes Away At 91; Celebs and Journalists Pay Tribute

Veteran journalist, editor, author and activist Vimla Patil passed away on September 30, 2024. She was 91. Vimla Patil was the Editor of Femina, a prestigious women’s magazine of The Times of India group, for two decades. Being the editor of Femina from 1973 until 1993 (although some reports say she began from the inaugural issue in 1959), Vimla Patil helped shape the magazine to be one of India’s most iconic print publications. Known as a firebrand feminist and editor, she mentored many budding journalists. She also wrote for Son-et-Lumiere and was part of scripts for films, television and radio, as per reports. Vimla Patil had studied journalism in London, United Kingdom. Before Femina, she worked as a trainee with The Telegraph in London, and later for a business journal, The Office Magazine.

After her retirement from Femina, among her many endeavours, she wrote a column for New Woman magazine, a publication which for many years was edited by actress Hema Malini. Vimla Patil was the author of several books on cooking and food, as well a book on baby names and a book of her lectures titled ‘How to be Successful and Happy’, based on the Bhagavad Gita and teachings for Arjuna from the epic Mahabharata.

Tributes Pour in for Editor Vimla Patil

Several celebrities and renowned media personalities like Khalid Mohamed, Sathya Saran and Richa Chadha expressed their condolences on Vimla Patil’s demise. The veteran journalists expressed their condolences and wrote about how she trained and mentored them. Femina magazine also shared a tribute on social media with two special posts for their former boss.

'Femina' Posts Tribute to  Vimla Patil

In its tribute to its former editor, Femina wrote two posts with heartfelt notes and shared covers of the magazine over the years. The women's magazine's first post read: "Team Femina celebrates the life of Vimla Patil, erstwhile editor of the magazine between 1973 and 1993, who was as iconic as she was inspirational. Ms Patil was more than just an editor; she was a pioneer who fearlessly brought feminism to the forefront during a time when it was rarely spoken about. Her commitment to addressing women’s rights, empowerment, and societal challenges opened up important conversations that resonated with readers across the country. She was committed to creating a space where women could see themselves, their struggles, and their triumphs reflected in the pages of a magazine. Her vision and courage helped pave the way for countless women to find their voices, and her legacy as a champion for gender equality will continue to inspire future generations. We will forever be grateful for her contributions. Rest in peace, Vimla Patil."

'Femina' Celebrates the Life of Vimla Patil

The second post by Femina read: "Honouring the legendary Vimla Patil, who transformed Femina into a vehicle of empowerment for women during her time as editor. Swipe through these iconic covers that defined an era, showcasing her bold vision, feminist spirit, and commitment to highlighting stories that mattered. From breaking stereotypes to celebrating the strength and diversity of women, her work continues to inspire us all. Her legacy will forever live on in every page. Rest in power, Ms Patil." Legendary Publisher Nari Hira Dies at 86; Shobhaa De, Khalid Mohamed and Others Mourn the Loss of Magna Publishing’s Owner.

'Femina' Magazine Pays Tribute to Vimla Patil

Khalid Mohamed Tribute to Vimla Patil

Renowned film critic, journalist and film director Khalid Mohamed wrote on X, “VIMLA PATILji passed away yesterday….editor of Femina.,  they don’t make journalists like her anymore… I was just a trainee n u would assign me to  contribute articles n were always so encouraging .My eyes well up with tears… farewell Vimlaji.” (sic)

Khalid Mohamed’s Post on Vimla Patil

Richa Chadha Pays Tribute to Vimla Patil

Bollywood actress Richa Chadha, a student of communication, retweeted Khalid Mohamed’s post on X and wrote, “Rest in peace Vimla Patil Ji 🙏🏽”.  Veteran Journalist Umesh Upadhyay, Distinguished Figure in Journalism and Media Communication Strategy, Passes Away. 

Richa Chadha Condoles the Death of Vimla Patil

Sathya Saran’s Tribute to Vimla Patil

Former Femina Editor and author Sathya Saran wrote a long tribute to Vimla Patil to Facebook, thanking her for being an ideal mentor. “I hit gold! Mrs Patil was the ideal mentor. She gave her writers a free hand, accepted most ideas. I remember her first assignment for me. To write a cover story on how to start a business. It was like learning to swim at the deep end!” wrote Ms Saran.

Read Sathya Saran’s full post on Vimla Patil Sathya Saran's post on Vimla Patil.

Anubha Bhonsle Pays Tribute to Vimla Patil

Journalist Anubha Bhonsle posted a tribute on Instagram, saying, "REST IN PEACE🥀 Vimla Patil, the first editor of ‘Femina’ magazine has passed away at 91. ✍️Patil, a journalist, author and columnist, served as the editor of Femina from 1959-1993—a time when female editors were few and far between. She also played a key role in initiating the Femina Miss India contests."

Anubha Bhonsle posted tribute to Vimla Patil

Narendra Gupta’s Tribute to Vimla Patil

Film critic and journalist Narendra Gupta wrote on Instagram, “I'm sorry to hear about the passing of Mrs. Vimla Patil, the former Chief Editor of *Femina*. She made significant contributions to Indian media and the representation of women during her time at *Femina*, a pioneering women's magazine. Her legacy and work undoubtedly touched many lives. May she rest in peace.”

Narendra Gupta’s Writes on Vimla Patil

Our condolences to Vimla Patil's family. May her soul rest in peace.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 01, 2024 09:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).