Critic MK Sanu said here on Thursday that comics have the power to tell the truth.
“In this post-truth era, where there is a concerted effort to spread lies, comics have an important role to play,” he said, adding that an exhibition commemorating the 100th anniversary of the birth of legendary cartoonist Abu Abraham He said this in his inaugural speech. Click here for Durbar Hall Art Gallery.
Mr. Sanu recalled that Abu's works showed unique insights into various socio-political issues, and noted that eminent cartoonists like him, OV Vijayan, RK Laxman and Shankar, influenced society through their powerful cartoons. He said he was standing up against evil. “They spoke eloquently about a variety of topics in their unique styles,” he says.
Author Subhash Chandran said Abu's political cartoons remain relevant even in this era of escalating intolerance by right-wing forces. “His famous work depicting a former president leaning out of a bathtub to sign an emergency order demonstrated the power of comics and their creators with a natural talent for elevating arguments into statements.” “The work was against the hegemony of power,” he said.
Renowned cartoonist EP Unny said legendary cartoonists including Abu and OV Vijayan have shaped the sensibilities of cartoonists like him through their excellent works.
Aisha Abraham and Janaki Abraham, daughters of Abu. and Murali Chiarosu, president of the Kerala Lalithakala Akademi. Around 300 cartoons, sketches and notes of the famous cartoonist are on display at Art His Gallery in Durbar Hall until April 21. The event is being organized by the Kerala Ralitakara His Academy as part of a retrospective of the eminent artist.
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