Renowned travel writer and Hugh Gantzer, a Padma Shri awardee, passed away on 2 February 2026 at the age of 95 in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. His passing marks the end of a remarkable journey that helped generations of readers discover India’s landscapes, cultures, and people. Known for his simple style and deep curiosity, Gantzer played a key role in shaping modern travel writing in India.
Early Life and Background
Hugh Gantzer was born on 9 January 1931 in Patna, Bihar. From an early age, he showed interest in travel, storytelling, and observation. These interests later became the foundation of his long and successful writing career.
Before becoming a full-time writer, he served in the Indian Navy and retired with the rank of Commander. His years in the Navy allowed him to travel widely and experience diverse regions, which later enriched his writing.
Transition to Travel Writing
After retiring from the Indian Navy, Hugh Gantzer turned to full-time travel writing, often working closely with his wife Colleen Gantzer. Together, they explored remote regions, heritage towns, and lesser-known destinations across India.
His writing stood out for its clarity, warmth, and honesty. Rather than focusing only on famous tourist spots, he highlighted local traditions, everyday life, and the human stories behind places.
Literary and Media Contributions
Hugh Gantzer was associated with The Times of India for several decades. He authored the iconic weekly column “Sexes and the City”, which ran for over 40 years, making it one of the longest-running columns in Indian journalism.
In addition to print journalism, he made a major contribution to television. He produced 52 travel documentaries for Doordarshan, India’s national broadcaster. These documentaries brought India’s geography, heritage, and diversity into millions of homes.
He also authored more than 30 books, covering travel, culture, and social observations. His columns appeared in several leading English-language newspapers, helping popularise travel writing as a serious and respected genre in India.
Awards and Recognition
In 2025, Hugh Gantzer was conferred the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, in the field of Literature and Education. The award recognised his lifelong contribution to literature, journalism, and public understanding of India through travel narratives.
Significance of His Work
Hugh Gantzer’s work played an important role in:
- Promoting domestic tourism
- Preserving stories of local cultures and traditions
- Making travel writing accessible and engaging
His writings encouraged readers to explore India with curiosity and respect, long before travel blogging and social media became popular.
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