The time will never come to a standstill when we recall the witty and unique cartoons by RK Laxman. Over five decades have passed. But his penchant for little nuances of life as a “significant other” in his political cartoons, has established the reality of the common man as a silent spectator.

The time spent with The Times of India has always had an addictive note, especially in knowing the society through the eyes of the “Common Man”. Even before I understood the ways of politics, I knew the political scenario through the cartoons of RK Laxman.

This creator of “Common man” was known “for his acerbic cartoons lampooning political figures.” His “You Said It” column in The Times of India, since 1951, has had a spell on the newspaper readers. An epitome of life and situations, RK Laxman’s cartoons, were satirical short clips into the latest news events that have had a significant effect on the life of a common man.

Named as Rasipuram Krishnaswamy Laxman (Oct 24, 1921), RK Laxman was born in Mysore (Karnataka in South India) to a schoolmaster. “Since childhood I do not remember wanting to do anything else except draw,” RK Laxman says in his autobiography, The Tunnel of Time. (To quote, The Hindu).

Having been introduced to the legendary Indian English writer, RK Narayan at a very young age, I have unknowingly drawn parallels from the way the two brothers perceived an ordinary life. Their simple expressions of a difficult situation through words and sketches have made me explore the essence of simplicity.

This eminent political cartoonist will be fondly remembered.

* Photo courtesy: Internet Source