The world of business journalism in the Gulf has lost one of its most experienced and insightful minds, and a prolific writer.
Gopal Bhattacharya, 45, a senior reporter with Emirates Business, died in Dubai yesterday after a suspected heart attack. Born in Delhi on June 1, 1963, Gopal began his career in journalism with The Statesman in Delhi.
He joined Khaleej Times, Dubai, in 1990, leaving as Senior Business Reporter after 14 years. After spending a year with the Oman Daily Observer in Muscat, he returned to Dubai to head the business desk at Emirates Evening Post.
In 2005, Gopal joined the Gulf Business magazine as business editor and three years later joined Emirates Business, where he covered the UAE financial markets and banking.
Ibrahim Al Abed, Director-General of the National Media Council, said: "He was one of the best journalists I have come across – not only objective but analytical. He had great integrity and also loved this country where he worked."
Gopal is survived by his wife, Mridula, and teenage son, Varun.