Malati Murmu (11 February 1975 â 31 December 2025) was an Indian journalist and language activist known for her role as the editor and publisher of Fagun, a monthly newspaper published in the Santali language using the Ol Chiki script. She was widely recognised for her contribution to the preservation and promotion of Santali language and literature through print media.
Malati Murmu belonged to the Santal community of Odisha. She was born in Gayalkata village of Kuliana block in Mayurbhanj district. Her father was Mangal Murmu, and her mother was Sharma, also known as Surukuni Murmu. She became associated with Santali language activism through journalism and publishing, with a focus on indigenous language media and the Ol Chiki script.
Fagun was launched in April 2008 as a monthly newspaper in the Santali language printed in the Ol Chiki script and published from Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The newspaper was registered with the Press Registrar General of India in February 2009.
Malati Murmu served as the editor of Fagun, while her family was associated with its founding and publication. The newspaper has been described as one of the few Santali-language newspapers in India and has played a significant role in promoting Santali literature, culture, and social awareness among Santal communities across multiple states.
As editor of Fagun, Murmu actively advocated for the recognition and expansion of Santali language usage in education and public life. In October 2023, she was part of a Santali-language media delegation that met the President of India, representing Fagun as its editor and publisher.
MurmuâÂÂs work through Fagun received national attention for its contribution to tribal journalism and the preservation of the Ol Chiki script. Her role as an editor and language activist was highlighted in national media coverage focusing on indigenous language preservation in India.
Malati Murmu was married to Mangat Murmu, who was associated with the establishment and management of Fagun. She also served as the president of Santali Saonhed Akhada, a Santali literary organisation based in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Malati Murmu died on 31 December 2025 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Regional media noted her contributions to Santali journalism and indigenous language development.