Upadhyay, known for his extensive knowledge on various subjects and popularly known as an intellectual titan, held prominent editorial and leadership positions in several national newspapers. He served as editor-in-chief of the Hindi daily 'Hindustan' for a significant period.

Breathing his last in Varanasi after a cardiac arrest, he is survived by his wife Manju Upadhyay, his son Vartik and his daughter Shaynika.

Hailing from Varanasi, Upadhyay settled in Delhi, where he established himself as a stalwart of journalism through knowledge and hard work.

Originally from Onia village in Sant Kabir Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, he spent his formative years in Varanasi and received his education there. Upadhyay held important positions in prominent newspapers like 'Hindustan', 'Dainik Jagran' and 'Amar Ujala'. His colleagues in these organizations fondly remember him for his exceptional editorial acumen.

Upadhyay, former general secretary of the Editors' Guild of India, was known for his academic traits, his determination and his courteous demeanor as a journalist. He started his journalistic journey with the Varanasi-based Hindi daily 'Aaj' and also earned a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from MACT Bhopal.

His colleagues fondly remember him as an academic journalist and a beacon of journalism with unparalleled leadership qualities and a vast reservoir of knowledge. His friend Dilip Cherian paid tribute to Upadhyay and highlighted the rarity of journalists who matched his academic stature. Condolences came from various sectors of the media and society who mourned his loss.

The Press Club of India issued a condolence message on May the Almighty give strength to the family members in this time of grief and sorrow.”

"There were few journalists or editors of his scholarship, a quality he still used lightly. No one had the multiplicity of sources that Ajay-bhai could muster on any topic. Economics, politics, geosecurity, technology to which he could access sources of wisdom above all, he wrote about many, he edited with conviction and courage. The owners cowered, the sources sighed, the readers understood and the journalists and journalism stood firm, every time," Cherian wrote in his heartfelt tribute to the departed soul. on its X handle.

The Editors' Guild of India also mourned the death of Upadhyay. In a press release, it said: "The Editors' Guild of India mourns the death of journalist Ajay Upadhyay, a member of the Guild and former general secretary. Mr. Upadhyay, aged 66, passed away on July 6, 2024 in Varanasi. He was associated with several major newspapers and media outlets. A versatile journalist, he had professional contacts across the political spectrum. Friendly and affable by nature, he guided a generation of younger journalists in their long professional journey.

Shashi Shekhar, editor-in-chief of 'Hindustan', recalled his time with Ajay Upadhyay in the past and praised him for his diligence, intellect and experience. “Ajay, you are gone, but there is one thing that never fades and that is the past. An important part of my past belongs to you. You will be remembered! ”He posted on social media.