The Young Chronicle: For 1st Graders January 31st, 2015 | Page 5

YOUNG CHRONICLE Editor’s Note on RK. Laxman Did you ever think a cartoonist had the power to influence politics? Well, they do. In fact, a good cartoonist may not only entertain people, he can also change the way they think. RK. Laxman was one such artist. His drawings of the common man as an observer, in real situations, did make people think and wonder when things would change. He made jokes on politicians and on society, trying to make an impact on the way people thought. Born in Mysore, RK. Laxman’s background is very well shown through his brother RK. Narayan’s books, ‘Swami and Friends’ and ‘Malgudi Days’. This book was also made into a popular TV series. I would recommend you all grab a DVD of the same and watch it. RK. Laxman had 6 siblings and was the youngest amongst them. His father was a headmaster, and focused on their education. From the very beginning, illustrations in magazines inspired him. He started drawing even before he could read. Laxman notes in his autobiography, The Tunnel of Time: “I drew objects that caught my eye outside the window of my room – the dry twigs, leaves and lizard-like creatures crawling about, the servant chopping firewood and, of course, and number of crows in various postures on the rooftops of the buildings opposite” — R. K. Laxman Laxman was rejected at the J.J. School of Arts, as the dean felt that his drawings were not that good. But that didn’t stop him from being a legend, and sharing his point of view in the form of political and funny cartoons. Ultimately, Laxman graduated in arts from the University of Mysore, and created history with his legendary ‘Common Man’ What inspires me about RK. Laxman is his ability to bring humour even in the most dismal and disappointing situations faced by the nation, and the courage to mock the system, although subtly. Regards, Ritika Here’s a short poem on the common man: The common man watches, and analyses, Through corruption, and politics, and disasters, and mere stupidity. He humours himself and yet realises, He is still hoping for improvements in the society. He is just a bystander, Watching influential people decide his fate. He knows what’s happening, Yet cannot change the state. But little do people know, he isn’t just watching. He is making people think. He knows someone will raise a voice, Before the nation begins to stink.