Sunday, July 28, 2019
Biography of R. K. Laxman:
Rasipuram Krishnaswamy Laxman (R.K. Laxman) was a renowned Indian cartoonist and humorist, best known for his iconic creation "The Common Man".
Here is a brief biography of R.K. Laxman:
Early Life:
Birth: R.K. Laxman was born on October 24, 1921, in Mysuru, Karnataka, India.
Family Background: He was part of a prominent family of artists; his younger brother, R.K. Narayan, was a celebrated novelist.
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| Biography of R K Laxman |
Education:
R.K. Laxman studied at the Maharaja College of Mysuru and later at the Sir J.J. School of Arts in Bombay (now Mumbai).
R.K. Laxman's Career Beginnings:
Laxman began his career as a cartoonist with the Free Press Journal in Bombay.
His early cartoons reflected his keen observation of society and politics.
"The Common Man":
Laxman's most famous creation, "The Common Man," first appeared in the cartoon strip "You Said It" in The Times of India in 1951.
"The Common Man" was a silent spectator to the unfolding events in the country, representing the perspective of the ordinary Indian citizen.
Career Highlights of R.K. Laxman:
R.K. Laxman's cartoons were known for their wit, satire, and insightful commentary on political and social issues.
He worked for several publications, including The Times of India, The Illustrated Weekly of India, and Hindustan Times.
Laxman's daily pocket cartoon "You Said It" continued for over five decades, making it one of the longest-running cartoon strips in the world.
Awards and Recognition:
R.K. Laxman received numerous awards for his contributions, including the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan, two of India's highest civilian honors.
Books:
Laxman authored and illustrated several books, including collections of his cartoons and novels like "The Hotel Riviera" and "The Messenger."
Personal Life of R.K. Laxman:
R.K. Laxman was married to Kamala Laxman, and they had a son named Srinivas.
He passed away on January 26, 2015, at the age of 93.
Legacy:
R.K. Laxman's cartoons left an indelible mark on Indian journalism and society.
"The Common Man" became an iconic symbol of the silent observer, resonating with people from all walks of life.
R.K. Laxman's legacy extends beyond the realm of cartooning, as his work continues to be celebrated for its timeless humor and insightful commentary on the complexities of Indian society and politics.