Introduction
Najam Abdul Aziz Sethi, born on May 20, 1948, in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, is one of the country’s most prominent journalists, editors, political commentators, and media entrepreneurs. At 77 years old (as of October 2025), he remains a defining figure in Pakistan’s political and media landscape. Over a career spanning five decades, Sethi has evolved from an underground political activist to a respected statesman, serving as Caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab (2013) and Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) across multiple terms.
As a Muslim with a secular outlook, Sethi is known for his candid critique of extremism and his advocacy for democracy and free expression. He founded The Friday Times and Vanguard Books, two institutions that shaped modern Pakistani journalism and publishing. He also hosted the popular Najam Sethi Show “Aapas Ki Baat” on Geo TV, admired for its sharp political insight and humor.
His family — including wife Jugnu Mohsin, daughter Mira Sethi, and son Ali Sethi — continues to contribute significantly to journalism, literature, and music, making the Sethis one of Pakistan’s most intellectually influential families.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Lahore, Najam Sethi grew up in an environment that valued intellect and civic responsibility. He attended Government College Lahore, where he developed a strong interest in politics and literature. Later, he pursued higher education at Clare Hall, Cambridge University, specializing in economics and politics. His exposure to progressive thought at Cambridge inspired his later activism and journalistic pursuits.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Sethi became active in leftist movements opposing military rule — a stance that led to multiple imprisonments under General Zia-ul-Haq’s regime. These experiences deepened his commitment to press freedom and democratic ideals.
Family Background
Najam Sethi maintains privacy regarding his parents, focusing public attention on his professional life. In 1983, he married Jugnu Mohsin, a fellow journalist, publisher, and business partner. Together, they co-founded The Friday Times, Pakistan’s first independent English-language weekly newspaper, which became a platform for fearless journalism.
Their children have also achieved remarkable success:
- Mira Sethi, their daughter, is a journalist, actor, and author of “Are You Enjoying?”, a critically acclaimed short story collection.
- Ali Sethi, their son, is an internationally celebrated musician and author, best known for his hit song “Pasoori” and his novel “The Wish Maker.”
Career and Professional Journey
Najam Sethi’s professional journey reflects his lifelong dedication to truth, accountability, and cultural progress.
In the 1970s, he began as a political activist and later transitioned into publishing, founding Vanguard Books, which became one of Pakistan’s leading publishers of political and academic literature.
In 1989, Sethi launched The Friday Times, a bold venture during a period of strict press censorship. The publication quickly earned credibility for its independence and balanced political analysis.
Sethi later entered the broadcast media world, hosting the widely followed TV program “Aapas Ki Baat” on Geo News, where his political predictions and candid opinions gained nationwide attention.
In 2013, he briefly served as Caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab, ensuring fair and transparent elections. He was later appointed as Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in 2013, 2014, and 2018, where he introduced governance reforms and worked on rebuilding Pakistan’s international cricket relations.
While his exact net worth remains undisclosed, his income stems primarily from his publishing ventures, journalism, and media appearances.
Controversies
Sethi’s outspoken nature has often placed him at the center of controversy. He faced multiple arrests for his criticism of authoritarian regimes, most notably in 1999 under Nawaz Sharif’s government. His secular and liberal stance — though rooted in his Muslim faith — has also drawn criticism from conservative circles.
As PCB chairman, Sethi’s reforms occasionally sparked disputes within cricket administration, but his efforts to stabilize and globalize Pakistan cricket earned him respect both locally and internationally.
Achievements and Contributions
Najam Sethi is credited with transforming Pakistani journalism through The Friday Times and revitalizing cricket governance as PCB chairman. His publishing house, Vanguard Books, has brought essential political and historical works to Pakistani readers.
He received the Hilal-i-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan’s highest civilian awards, for his contributions to media and public service. His television analysis continues to shape public opinion and inform political discourse across South Asia.
Personal Life
Sethi lives in Lahore with his wife, Jugnu Mohsin. Despite decades in the public eye, he maintains a private lifestyle, focusing on writing, reading, and mentoring young journalists. His long-standing marriage reflects a shared vision of integrity and intellectual freedom.
Legacy
Najam Sethi’s legacy lies in his unwavering dedication to independent journalism, democratic ideals, and intellectual discourse. Through his newspapers, books, and television appearances, he has influenced generations of Pakistanis to think critically and value truth above political loyalty.
As of 2025, Sethi continues to appear on television and digital media, offering deep political insights and historical context to current affairs.
FAQs About Najam Sethi
- Who is Najam Sethi?
Najam Sethi is a Pakistani journalist, editor, political analyst, and former PCB chairman known for his independent views and media leadership. - What is Najam Sethi’s religion?
He is a Muslim who promotes secular and democratic principles in his public work. - What roles did Najam Sethi play as PCB chairman?
He served as PCB chairman in 2013, 2014, and 2018, introducing reforms and promoting international cricket in Pakistan. - Who is Najam Sethi’s wife?
His wife, Jugnu Mohsin, is a journalist, publisher, and co-founder of The Friday Times. - Who are Najam Sethi’s children?
He has two children: Mira Sethi, a journalist and author, and Ali Sethi, a singer and writer. - What is Najam Sethi’s date of birth?
He was born on May 20, 1948, in Lahore, Pakistan. - What is Najam Sethi’s age?
He is 77 years old as of October 2025. - Where did Najam Sethi study?
He studied at Government College Lahore and Clare Hall, Cambridge University. - What TV show is Najam Sethi known for?
He hosts “Aapas Ki Baat” on Geo News, focusing on political and social analysis. - What are Najam Sethi’s most known books or publications?
His publications through Vanguard Books cover political economy and South Asian affairs. - What is Najam Sethi’s contribution to journalism?
He founded The Friday Times and promoted fearless, independent journalism in Pakistan. - Has Najam Sethi received any awards?
Yes, he received the Hilal-i-Imtiaz for his contributions to public service and media. - What controversies has Najam Sethi faced?
He faced arrests and political pressure for his criticism of military and political elites. - What is Najam Sethi’s net worth?
His net worth is not publicly available, though it comes primarily from media and publishing ventures. - What political views does Najam Sethi hold?
He supports democracy, civil liberties, and moderation in Pakistan’s political system. - When did Najam Sethi become PCB chairman?
His first appointment came in 2013, followed by reappointments in 2014 and 2018. - What is Vanguard Books?
Vanguard Books is Sethi’s publishing house, known for publishing major works on South Asian politics and history. - Who is Ali Sethi?
Ali Sethi, Najam’s son, is a Harvard graduate, novelist, and globally recognized musician. - Who is Mira Sethi?
Mira Sethi, Najam’s daughter, is an author, journalist, and actor known for her book “Are You Enjoying?” - Where does Najam Sethi live now?
He currently resides in Lahore, Pakistan, and remains active in journalism and media.
