[[File:R. K. Laxman.jpg|alt=R. K. Laxman|thumb|R. K. Laxman]]
{{EngvarB|date=September 2014}}
'''Rasipuram Krishnaswami Laxman''' (24 October 1921 – 26 January 2015) was a celebrated Indian [[cartoonist]], [[illustrator]], and humorist. He gained widespread acclaim for his iconic creation, ''[[The Common Man]]'', and for his daily cartoon strip ''You Said It'', which began in ''The Times of India'' in 1951.
'''Rasipuram Krishnaswami Laxman'''<ref name="Rao2006">{{cite book|author=Ranga Rao|title=R.K. Narayan|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Lgs4ebrb6XAC&pg=PA11|access-date=11 March 2012|date=1 January 2006|publisher=Sahitya Akademi|isbn=978-81-260-1971-7|pages=11}} ''Pg. 11 in the source says that Laxman & his brother Narayan were Tamil Iyer Brahmins.''</ref> (24 October 1921 – 26 January 2015) was an Indian cartoonist, illustrator, and humorist.<ref>{{usurped|[https://web.archive.org/web/20071010051403/http://www.hinduonnet.com/fline/fl1515/15150780.htm Laxman's-eye view]}} Frontline Magazine – 18–31 July 1998</ref> He was best known for his creation ''[[The Common Man]]'' and for his daily cartoon strip, ''You Said It'' in ''[[The Times of India]]'', which started in 1951.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-30988508 | title=Times of India cartoonist RK Laxman dies after illness | publisher=[[BBC]] | date=26 January 2015 | access-date=27 January 2015}}</ref>
==Birth and Childhood==
R. K. Laxman started his career as a part-time cartoonist, working mostly for local newspapers and magazines. While as a college student, he illustrated his older brother [[R. K. Narayan]]'s stories in ''[[The Hindu]]''.<ref>[http://www.dnaindia.com/lifestyle/report-10-things-you-need-to-know-about-rk-laxman-2053689 10 things you need to know about RK Laxman]</ref> His first full-time job was as a political cartoonist for ''[[The Free Press Journal]]'' in Mumbai. Later, he joined ''The Times of India'', and became famous for ''The Common Man'' character, which turned out to be the turning point in Laxman's life.
=== '''Early Life and Education of R. K. Laxman''' ===
R. K. Laxman was born in 1921 in Mysore, Karnataka, into a Tamil Hindu family. His father, a school headmaster, and his mother raised eight children, including six sons and two daughters. Laxman was the youngest sibling, and his elder brother was the renowned novelist R. K. Narayan. Despite spending most of his life in Mumbai, Laxman earned the nickname “Pied Piper of Delhi” for his ability to charm audiences through his work.
==Birth and childhood==
From an early age, Laxman was captivated by [[illustrations]] in magazines such as ''The Strand'', ''[[Punch!|Punch]]'', ''Bystander'', ''Wide World'', and ''Tit-Bits''. Even before learning to read, he began drawing on floors, walls, and doors around his house, often sketching caricatures of his teachers. Encouraged by praise from a teacher who admired his drawing of a peepal leaf, Laxman started envisioning himself as an artist.
R. K. Laxman was born in [[Mysore]] in 1921 in a Tamil{{citation needed|date=October 2020}} Hindu family.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/arts/art/article2568188.ece|title=The Common Man is still at work |work=[[The Hindu]]|date=24 October 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2015-08-18|title=R.K. Laxman: the Legendary Indian Cartoonist |website=Realbharat|url=https://realbharat.org/r-k-laxman-legendary-indian-cartoonist/|access-date=2022-01-15|language=en-US}}</ref> His father was a headmaster and Laxman was the youngest of eight children: six sons and two daughters.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://sangam.org/tribute-rasipuram-krishnaswamy-r-k-laxman/ |title=Tribute to Rasipuram Krishnaswamy (R.K.) Laxman |last=Sri Kantha |first=Sachi |author-link=Sachi Sri Kantha |date=2 February 2015 |website=[[Ilankai Tamil Sangam]] |access-date=26 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Harvnb|Laxman|1998|p=4}}</ref> His elder brother was novelist [[R.K. Narayan]]. Laxman was known as "Pied Piper of Delhi".<ref>{{cite news|title=RK Laxman passes away|url=http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/news/india/rk-laxman-passes-away/articleshow/46025700.cms|access-date=27 January 2015|work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref>
Laxman was fascinated by the illustrations in magazines such as ''[[The Strand Magazine|The Strand]]'', ''[[Punch (magazine)|Punch]]'', ''Bystander'', ''Wide World'' and ''[[Tit-Bits]]'', before he had even begun to read.<ref>{{Harvnb|Laxman|1998|p=8}}</ref> Soon he was drawing on his own, on the floors, walls and doors of his house and [[Doodle|doodling]] [[caricature]]s of his teachers at school; praised by a teacher for his drawing of a [[peepal]] leaf, he began to think of himself as an artist in the making.<ref>{{Harvnb|Laxman|1998|pp=11–15}}</ref> Another early influence on Laxman was the work of the British cartoonist, [[David Low (cartoonist)|Sir David Low]] (whose signature he misread as "cow" for a long time) that appeared now and then in ''[[The Hindu]]''.<ref>{{Harvnb|Laxman|1998|p=25}}</ref> Laxman notes in his autobiography, ''The Tunnel of Time'':
A significant influence on Laxman’s style was the work of British cartoonist Sir David Low, whose cartoons occasionally appeared in ''The Hindu''. For a time, Laxman humorously misread Low’s signature as “cow,” a detail he recalls fondly in his autobiography, ''The Tunnel of Time''.
{{blockquote|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<ref>{{Harvnb|Laxman|1998|p=24}}</ref>}}
Laxman was the captain of his local "Rough and Tough and Jolly" [[cricket]] team and his antics inspired the stories "Dodu the Money Maker" and "The Regal Cricket Club" written by his brother, Narayan.<ref>{{Harvnb|Laxman|1998|pp=23–24}}</ref> Laxman's idyllic childhood was shaken for a while when his father suffered a paralytic stroke and died around a year later, but the elders at home bore most of the increased responsibility, while Laxman continued with his schooling.<ref>{{Harvnb|Laxman|1998|pp=29–32}}</ref>
After high school Maharaja's Govt. High School, Mysore, Laxman applied to the [[Sir J.J. Institute of Applied Art]] hoping to concentrate on his lifelong interests of drawing and painting, but the dean of the school wrote to him that his drawings lacked "the kind of talent to qualify for enrolment in our institution as a student", and refused admission.<ref>{{Harvnb|Laxman|1998|pp=57–60}}</ref> He finally graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the [[University of Mysore]]. In the meantime he continued his freelance artistic activities and contributed cartoons to ''[[Swarajya (magazine)|Swarajya]]'' and an animated film based on the mythological character [[Narada]].<ref>{{Harvnb|Laxman|1998|pp=66–72}}</ref>
Laxman’s childhood also included a passion for cricket, and he captained his local team, the “Rough and Tough and Jolly” cricket club. His spirited antics inspired his brother R. K. Narayan to write stories like ''Dodu the Money Maker'' and ''The Regal Cricket Club''. However, his idyllic youth faced a disruption when his father suffered a paralytic stroke and passed away about a year later. Despite this loss, his family’s support allowed Laxman to continue his schooling at Maharaja’s Government High School in Mysore.
After high school, Laxman applied to the Sir J. J. Institute of Applied Art in Mumbai to pursue his passion for drawing and painting. However, the dean rejected his application, stating his drawings lacked “the kind of talent” required for enrollment. Undeterred, Laxman went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Mysore. During his college years, he honed his skills through freelance artistic projects, contributing cartoons to publications like ''Swarajya'' and creating an animated film featuring the mythological figure Narada.
==Career==
==Career==
===Beginning===
===Beginning===
[[File:Common Man with R. K. Laxman.jpg|alt=R. K. Laxman with the Common Man|thumb|R. K. Laxman with his creation, ''[[The Common Man]]'']]
[[File:Common Man with R. K. Laxman.jpg|alt=R. K. Laxman with the Common Man|thumb|R. K. Laxman with his creation, ''[[The Common Man]]'']]
R.K Laxman's earliest work was for newspapers Rohan and magazines including ''[[Swarajya (magazine)|Swarajya]]'' and ''[[Blitz (newspaper)|Blitz]]''. While still at the [[Maharaja College of Mysore]], he began to illustrate his elder brother R. K. Narayan's stories in ''[[The Hindu]]'', and he drew [[political cartoons]] for the local newspapers and for the ''Swatantra''. Laxman also drew cartoons for the [[Kannada]] humour magazine, ''Koravanji'' which was founded in 1942 by M. Shivaram who had a clinic in the Majestic area of Bangalore. He started this monthly magazine, dedicating it to humorous and satirical articles and cartoons. Shivaram himself was an eminent humourist in Kannada. He encouraged Laxman.
R. K. Laxman began his artistic journey contributing to various newspapers and magazines, including ''Rohan'', ''Swarajya'', and ''Blitz''. While studying at Maharaja’s College in Mysore, he illustrated stories by his elder brother R. K. Narayan published in ''The Hindu'' and created political cartoons for local newspapers such as ''Swatantra''. He also contributed to the Kannada humor magazine ''Koravanji'', founded in 1942 by humorist M. Shivaram, who played a significant role in encouraging Laxman’s early work.
Laxman held a summer job at the [[Gemini Studios]], Madras. His first full-time job was as a political cartoonist for ''[[The Free Press Journal]]'' in [[Mumbai]], where [[Bal Thackeray]] was his cartoonist colleague. In 1951, Laxman joined ''[[The Times of India]]'', Mumbai, beginning a career that spanned over fifty years.<ref>[http://www.britannica.com/biography/R-K-Laxman Encyclopædia Britannica]</ref> His "Common Man" character, featured in his pocket cartoons, is portrayed as a witness to the making of democracy.<ref>Ritu Gairola Khanduri. 2014. [http://www.cambridge.org/us/academic/authors/246935 Caricaturing Culture in India: Cartoons and History of the Modern World]. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.</ref> Anthropologist Ritu G. Khanduri notes, "R. K. Laxman structures his cartoon-news through a plot about corruption and a set of characters. This news is visualized and circulates through the recurring figures of the mantri (minister), the Common Man and the trope of modernity symbolized by the airplane (2012: 304)."<ref>{{Cite journal | doi=10.1080/08949468.2012.688416|title = Picturing India: Nation, Development and the Common Man| journal=Visual Anthropology| volume=25| issue=4| pages=303–323|year = 2012|last1 = Khanduri|first1 = Ritu Gairola|s2cid = 143569147}}</ref>
===Other creations===
During a summer job at Gemini Studios in Madras, Laxman further explored his artistic capabilities. His first full-time position as a political cartoonist was with ''The Free Press Journal'' in Mumbai, where he worked alongside future political figure Bal Thackeray. In 1951, Laxman joined ''The Times of India'', where he remained for over five decades, solidifying his legacy as one of India’s most celebrated cartoonists.
Laxman also created a popular mascot for the [[Asian Paints Ltd]] group called "Gattu" in 1954.<ref name=bus2000>{{cite news |title=Colour the world |url=http://hindu.com/businessline/2000/04/13/stories/111302c1.htm |publisher=[[Business Line]] |date=13 April 2000 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121231093908/http://hindu.com/businessline/2000/04/13/stories/111302c1.htm |archive-date=31 December 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Who is the creator of 'Gattu'? |url= http://www.rediff.com/money/2008/jul/11quiz.htm|work=[[Rediff.com]] |date=11 July 2008 }}</ref> He also wrote a few novels, the first one of which was titled ''The Hotel Riviera''.<ref name=TH /> His cartoons have appeared in [[Hindi]] films such as ''[[Mr. & Mrs. '55]]'' and a [[Tamil language|Tamil]] film ''[[Kamaraj (film)|Kamaraj]]''. His creations also include the sketches drawn for the television adaptation of ''[[Malgudi Days (TV series)|Malgudi Days]]''<ref name=Celebs /> which was written by his elder brother [[R. K. Narayan]], directed by [[Shankar Nag]], and a Konkan coast based Hindi sitcom, [[Wagle Ki Duniya]]. Laxman also drew caricatures of David Low, [[T. S. Eliot]], [[Dr. Rajkumar]], [[Bertrand Russell]], [[J. B. Priestley]] and [[Graham Greene]].<ref name=TH />
=== '''The Common Man''' ===
Laxman’s most iconic creation, ''[[The Common Man]]'', became a defining feature of his career. This character, featured in his pocket cartoons in ''The Times of India'', served as a silent witness to the everyday struggles, absurdities, and nuances of Indian democracy. His cartoons often depicted issues of corruption, bureaucracy, and societal challenges, as anthropologist Ritu G. Khanduri observed:
“R. K. Laxman structures his cartoon-news through a plot about corruption and a set of characters. This news is visualized and circulates through the recurring figures of the ''mantri'' (minister), the Common Man, and the trope of modernity symbolized by the airplane.”
=== Other creations ===
In addition to his political cartoons, Laxman created “Gattu,” the beloved mascot for Asian Paints in 1954. His artistic versatility extended to writing as well, with his debut novel ''The Hotel Riviera'' garnering attention. Laxman’s work also featured in Indian cinema, with his cartoons appearing in the Hindi film ''Mr. & Mrs. ’55'' and the Tamil film ''Kamaraj''.
Laxman contributed significantly to television and other media. He illustrated for the acclaimed television adaptation of ''Malgudi Days'', based on R. K. Narayan’s stories, and created characters for the Hindi sitcom ''Wagle Ki Duniya'', set on the Konkan coast. Over the years, he also drew caricatures of notable figures like David Low, T. S. Eliot, Dr. Rajkumar, Bertrand Russell, J. B. Priestley, and Graham Greene, further showcasing his artistic prowess.
==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Laxman was first married to Kumari Kamala, a Bharatanatyam dancer and film actress who began her film career as a child actress named "Baby Kamala" and graduated into adult roles under the name "Kumari Kamala" ("Miss Kamala"). They had no children and after their divorce in 1960 Laxman married his niece whose first name was again Kamala. She was the author and children's book writer- Kamala Laxman.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://punemirror.indiatimes.com/columns/columnists/shobhaa-de/an-uncommon-marriage-r-k-laxman-and-kamala/articleshow/46070253.cms|title=An 'Uncommon' Marriage: R K Laxman and Kamala|work=Pune Mirror|access-date=2018-11-23}}</ref> In a cartoon series named "The star I never met" in film magazine ''[[Filmfare]]'' he painted a cartoon of Kamala Laxman, with the title "The star I only met!" The couple's son Srinivas Laxman is a Mumbai-based freelance space journalist who has contributed regularly to [[The Times of India]].<ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/r-k-laxman-the-uncommon-man/article6824003.ece The uncommon man: R.K. Laxman (1921-2015)]</ref><ref>[https://www.planetary.org/profiles/srinivas-laxman The Planetary Society: Srinivas Laxman]</ref>
R. K. Laxman was first married to Kumari Kamala, a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer and film actress who started her career as a child actress under the name “Baby Kamala” and later transitioned to adult roles as “Kumari Kamala.” The couple had no children and divorced in 1960.
In September 2003, Laxman suffered a stroke that left him paralysed on his left side. He recovered from it partially.{{citation needed|date=October 2017}} On the evening of 20 June 2010, Laxman was admitted to [[Breach Candy Hospital]] in Mumbai after being transported by an [[air ambulance]] from [[Pune]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/R-K-Laxman-hospitalized-after-3-strokes-stable/articleshow/6072834.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811074414/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-06-21/india/28295150_1_r-k-laxman-air-ambulance-strokes|url-status=live|archive-date=11 August 2011|title=R K Laxman hospitalized after 3 strokes, stable|date=21 June 2010|work=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=21 June 2010}}</ref>
Laxman later married his niece, Kamala Laxman, a children’s book author and writer. Reflecting their relationship, Laxman created a cartoon of Kamala for his series ''The Star I Never Met'' in the film magazine ''Filmfare'', humorously titled “The star I only met!” The couple had a son, Srinivas Laxman, a Mumbai-based freelance space journalist who frequently contributed to ''The Times of India''.
In September 2003, Laxman suffered a stroke that left him partially paralyzed on his left side. Despite this setback, he managed to recover partially and continued his creative work. On June 20, 2010, he was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai after being transported via air ambulance from Pune.
Laxman’s personal life was marked by both challenges and resilience, with his family and work remaining central to his identity.
==Death==
[[File:Gurera's Tribute to Laxman.jpg|thumb|A tribute to the late R. K. Laxman by cartoonist [[Shekhar Gurera]]]]
[[File:Gurera's Tribute to Laxman.jpg|thumb|A tribute to the late R. K. Laxman by cartoonist [[Shekhar Gurera]]]]
[[File:The well-known political cartoonist for the ‘Times of India’ Shri R.K. Laxman receives the Padma Vibhushan award from the President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in New Delhi on March 28, 2005.jpg|thumb|R. K. Laxman receives the Padma Vibhushan award from the President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in New Delhi on March 28, 2005]]
[[File:The well-known political cartoonist for the ‘Times of India’ Shri R.K. Laxman receives the Padma Vibhushan award from the President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in New Delhi on March 28, 2005.jpg|thumb|R. K. Laxman receives the Padma Vibhushan award from the President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in New Delhi on March 28, 2005]]
Laxman died in [[Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital]] in Pune on [[Republic Day (India)|India's Republic Day]] in 2015 at the age of 93. He was hospitalised three days earlier for a [[urinary tract infection]] and chest problems that ultimately led to multiple organ failure.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/R-K-Laxman-regains-partial-consciousness/articleshow/45996985.cms | work = [[The Times of India]]| date= 23 January 2015 | access-date = 27 January 2015 | title = R K Laxman regains partial consciousness}}</ref> He had reportedly suffered multiple strokes since 2010.<ref name="TH" /><ref>{{cite news|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/r-k-laxman-dies-he-was-94/1/415453.html|title=Iconic cartoonist R K Laxman passes away in Pune after a prolonged illness at the age of 94|work=[[India Today]]|date=26 January 2015|access-date=26 January 2015}}</ref><ref name="Eminent cartoonist RK Laxman dies at 94">{{cite news|title=Eminent cartoonist RK Laxman dies at 94|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Eminent-cartoonist-RK-Laxman-dies-at-94/articleshow/46021781.cms|access-date=26 January 2015|work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> A cartoon that Laxman had made following the successful landing of [[Mangalyaan]] on [[Mars]] was posted by the [[Indian Space Research Organisation]] on its [[Facebook]] and [[Twitter]] pages on 27 January.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Press Trust of India|title=ISRO pays tribute to R.K. Laxman with 'Common Man on Mars' cartoon|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/isro-pays-tribute-to-rk-laxman-with-common-man-on-mars-cartoon/article6826265.ece|access-date=27 January 2015|work=[[The Hindu]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|date=27 January 2015|location=Bengaluru|author1-link=Press Trust of India}}</ref> [[Maharashtra]] Chief Minister [[Devendra Fadnavis]] announced that Laxman would be accorded a [[state funeral]] and a memorial would be built in his honour. Laxman's body was kept at the [[Symbiosis International University|Symbiosis Institute]]'s Pune premises near the "Common Man" statue and his body was cremated at the Vaikunth crematorium.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Banerjee|first1=Shoumojit|title=Fadnavis announces memorial for R.K. Laxman|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/fadnavis-announces-memorial-for-rk-laxman/article6826272.ece|access-date=27 January 2015|work=[[The Hindu]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|date=27 January 2015|location=Pune}}</ref>
== '''Death and Legacy''' ==
R. K. Laxman passed away on January 26, 2015, India’s Republic Day, at the age of 93. He died at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune after being hospitalized three days earlier for a urinary tract infection and chest complications, which eventually led to multiple organ failure. Laxman had suffered several strokes since 2010, which had affected his health in his final years.
Following his death, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) paid tribute to Laxman by posting one of his cartoons on their Facebook and Twitter pages on January 27, 2015. The cartoon celebrated the successful landing of ''Mangalyaan'' (Mars Orbiter Mission) on Mars, showcasing his enduring relevance and ability to capture the nation’s achievements through his art.
==Awards and recognition==
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that Laxman would be accorded a state funeral, and a memorial would be built in his honor. His body was kept at the premises of the Symbiosis Institute in Pune, near the statue of his iconic creation, ''The Common Man'', allowing admirers to pay their respects. Laxman was cremated at the Vaikunth Crematorium in Pune, marking the end of an illustrious life dedicated to humor, art, and social commentary.
*[[Padma Bhushan]] – Govt. of India – 1973<ref name="TH" />
*[[Padma Vibhushan]] – Govt. of India – 2005<ref>{{cite news|title='Common Man' cartoonist RK Laxman dead at 93|url=http://in.reuters.com/article/india-cartoonist-laxman-idINKBN0KZ1T520150126|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218063548/http://in.reuters.com/article/india-cartoonist-laxman-idINKBN0KZ1T520150126|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 December 2015|access-date=27 January 2015|publisher=[[Reuters]]|date=26 January 2015}}</ref>
*[[Ramon Magsaysay Award]] for Journalism, Literature and Creative Communication Arts – 1984<ref name="TH">{{cite news|last1=Menon|first1=Meena|title=The uncommon man: R.K. Laxman (1921-2015)|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/r-k-laxman-the-uncommon-man/article6824003.ece|access-date=27 January 2015|work=[[The Hindu]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|date=26 January 2015}}</ref>
*[[Rajyotsava Prashasti|Karnataka Rajyotsava Award]] – [[Government of Karnataka]] – 1983
*Lifetime Achievement Award for Journalism – CNN IBN TV18 – 29 January 2008<ref name="DNA">{{cite news|last1=Zunke|first1=Pratiksha|title=Renowned cartoonist RK Laxman to be awarded Bharat Bhushan|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/pune/report-renowned-cartoonist-rk-laxman-to-be-awarded-bharat-bhushan-1885473|access-date=27 January 2015|work=[[Daily News and Analysis]]|publisher=Diligent Media Corporation|date=7 September 2013|location=Pune}}</ref>
*Pune Pandit Award (Scholar of Pune Award) by the Art & Music Foundation for excellence in 'Creative Communication' – 2012<ref name="DNA" />
*Honorary Doctorate from the [[University of Mysore]] – 2004<ref>{{cite news|last1=Vakil|first1=Dina|title=RK Laxman, who immortalised the common man, was devoted to excellence|url=http://blogs.economictimes.indiatimes.com/et-commentary/rk-laxman-who-immortalised-the-common-man-was-devoted-to-excellence/|access-date=27 January 2015|work=[[The Economic Times]]|publisher=[[The Times Group]]|date=27 January 2015}}</ref>
There is a chair named after R. K. Laxman at [[Symbiosis International University]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/RK-Laxman-Chair-started-at-Symbiosis-University/articleshow/8907642.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105172336/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-06-19/india/29676656_1_r-k-laxman-eminent-cartoonist-kamala-laxman |url-status=live |archive-date=5 November 2012 |title=RK Laxman Chair started at Symbiosis University|author=Times News Network|work=[[The Times of India]] |date=19 June 2011}}</ref>
R. K. Laxman remains an enduring figure in Indian art and journalism, with his legacy carried forward by his timeless cartoons and the universal appeal of ''The Common Man''.
=== Exhibitions by IIC ===
Exhibitions of Laxman's cartoons organised by [[Indian Institute of Cartoonists]] at [[Bangalore#Indian Cartoon Gallery|Indian Cartoon Gallery]].
=='''Awards and Recognition'''==
{| class="wikitable sortable"
R. K. Laxman received numerous accolades throughout his career, recognizing his unparalleled contributions to art, journalism, and creative communication.
|-
! Date !! Exhibition !! Inaugurated by
* '''Padma Bhushan''' – Government of India, 1973
|-
* '''Padma Vibhushan''' – Government of India, 2005
| 6th Feb 2009 || R. K. Laxman || Jayaramaraje Urs
* '''Ramon Magsaysay Award for Journalism, Literature, and Creative Communication Arts''' – 1984
|-
* '''Karnataka Rajyotsava Award''' – Government of Karnataka, 1983
| 8th Feb 2012 || R. K. Laxman's Unpublished Doodles || [[Manepalli Narayana Rao Venkatachaliah|M N Venkatachaliah]], [[Girish Karnad]]
* '''Lifetime Achievement Award for Journalism''' – CNN IBN TV18, 29 January 2008
|-
* '''Pune Pandit Award (Scholar of Pune Award)''' – Art & Music Foundation, 2012, for excellence in creative communication
* '''Honorary Doctorate''' – University of Mysore, 2004
|-
| 21st Oct 2013 || Best of Laxman || ...
In addition to these honors, Symbiosis International University in Pune established a chair named after R. K. Laxman to commemorate his legacy and inspire future generations.
| 23rd Jan.2016 || START-UP R. K. Laxman from ''Koravanji'' || Usha Srinivas Laxman, M.Shivakumar, Beluru Ramamurthy
|-
| 15th Oct 2016 || Unpublished R.K.Laxman <ref>[https://whatshappbangalore.wordpress.com/2016/10/13/unpublished-r-k-laxman-an-exhibition-of-doodles/ Unpublished R.K.Laxman] Whatshapp Bangalore : October 13, 2016</ref> || ...
|-
| 14th Oct 2020 || hadhi Exhibition on his 100th Birth Anniversary || ...
|}
==Legacy==
[[File:Laxman Museum 1.jpg|thumb|Statue of [[The Common Man]] at the entrance of [[R. K. Laxman Museum]]]]
[[File:Laxman Museum 1.jpg|thumb|Statue of [[The Common Man]] at the entrance of [[R. K. Laxman Museum]]]]
*'''R K Laxman Museum:''' [[R. K. Laxman Museum]] in [[Pune]] houses over 35000 illustrations of R. K. Laxman. The exhibits have been displayed in several galleries. An entire gallery is dedicated to the life of Laxman. It houses rare photos of his childhood and also displays photos of his elder brother the famous novelist [[R. K. Narayan]]. The museum also has a light and sound show.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Datta |first1=Rangan |title=RK Laxman Museum in Pune — a legacy for the next generation |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/my-kolkata/places/rk-laxman-museum-in-pune-a-legacy-for-the-next-generation/cid/1906377 |access-date=25 July 2023 |issue=My Kolkata |publisher=The Telegraph}}</ref>
==Popular culture==
== '''R. K. Laxman Museum''' ==
* Actor Asif Ali Beg portrayed R.K.Laxman in ''[[Scam 1992]]'', a [[Sony LIV]]'s original web series based on [[1992 Indian stock market scam]] of [[Harshad Mehta]], where he was shown to be interacting with journalist [[Sucheta Dalal]] while working for the [[The Times of India|Times of India]], Mumbai.<ref>{{cite news |title=Meet the Raging Bull |url=https://thedailyeye.info/post.php?id=1d8f488936075722&title=Meet-the-Raging-Bul |access-date=11 April 2021 |work=Free Press Journal |date=12 April 2021 |language=en}}</ref>
The '''[[R. K. Laxman Museum]]''', located in Pune, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the work and life of R. K. Laxman. The museum houses over 35,000 illustrations by the legendary cartoonist, with exhibits displayed across several galleries.
*On 24 October 2015, Google featured Laxman on a [[Google Doodle]] to honour him on the occasion of his 94th birthday.<ref>{{Cite web |title=R. K. Laxman's 94th Birthday |url=https://doodles.google/doodle/r-k-laxmans-94th-birthday/ |access-date=2022-09-09 |website=www.google.com |language=en}}</ref>
One gallery is entirely devoted to Laxman’s life, featuring rare photographs from his childhood and personal moments. It also includes photographs of his elder brother, the renowned novelist R. K. Narayan. The museum offers a multimedia experience, including a light-and-sound show, providing visitors with an immersive journey into Laxman’s artistic legacy and his contribution to Indian culture.
At the entrance of the museum stands a statue of ''The Common Man'', symbolizing Laxman’s most iconic creation and his connection to the everyday lives of Indians.
== Popular culture ==
* '''Portrayal in Media''': Actor Asif Ali Beg portrayed R. K. Laxman in the Sony LIV original web series ''Scam 1992'', which is based on the 1992 Indian stock market scam involving Harshad Mehta. Laxman was depicted interacting with journalist Sucheta Dalal while working at ''The Times of India'' in Mumbai.
==Bibliography==
* '''Google Doodle Tribute''': On October 24, 2015, Google celebrated R. K. Laxman’s 94th birth anniversary with a dedicated Google Doodle. The illustration honored his legacy as a cartoonist and his iconic creation, ''The Common Man''.
* {{cite book|last=Nag|first=C. S.|title=He Said It! the ...|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ogrwMgEACAAJ|date=1 October 2012|publisher=WheelMan Press|isbn=978-0-9824361-6-5}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=The Eloquent Brush|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=0dYBQgAACAAJ|year=1988|publisher=Times of India for Benett Coleman & Company}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=50 Years of Independence Through the Eyes of R.K. Laxman|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FOnVAAAAMAAJ|year=1998|publisher=[[The Times Group]]|ref=none}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=The Best of Laxman|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bfPVAAAAMAAJ|year=1995|publisher=Penguin Books|isbn=9780140148152}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=The Hotel Riviera|url=https://archive.org/details/hotelriviera00laxm|url-access=registration|date=February 1989|publisher=Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated|isbn=978-0-14-010796-8}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=The messenger|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=XtFlAAAAMAAJ|date=1 January 1993|publisher=Penguin|isbn=9780140236736}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Servants Of India|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=A_lVyDM7hZYC&pg=PT4|date=4 April 2002|publisher=Penguin Books Limited|isbn=978-93-5118-108-8}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=The tunnel of time: an autobiography|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5s8YAAAAYAAJ|date=1 June 1998|publisher=Viking|isbn=9780670879564}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=Rasipuram Krishnaswamy|title=Brushing Up the Years: A Cartoonist's History of India, 1947 to the Present|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Vn-VLAAACAAJ|year=2008|publisher=Penguin Books India|isbn=978-0-14-310366-0}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Laugh With Laxman|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AV8VkC5uhpsC&pg=PT4|date=14 October 2000|publisher=Penguin Books Limited|isbn=978-93-5118-016-6}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=Collected Writings|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uzaTgrAuNbwC|date=1 January 2000|publisher=Penguin Books India|isbn=978-0-14-100015-2}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Distorted Mirror|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=E4jAVcJKs58C&pg=PP3|date=1 March 2004|publisher=Penguin Books India|isbn=978-0-14-303133-8}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Dose Of Laughter|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eWpBAgAAQBAJ&pg=PT4|date=11 September 2002|publisher=Penguin Books Limited|isbn=978-93-5118-448-5}}
* His autobiography ''Lakshmanrekha'' is published in [[Marathi language|Marathi]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Gill|first1=Gurkirat Singh|title=Unknown Facts About RK Laxman|url=http://www.universityexpress.co.in/delhiuniversity/2015/01/unknown-facts-rk-laxman/|access-date=27 January 2015|work=University Express|publisher=[[Delhi University]]|date=27 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150204081310/http://www.universityexpress.co.in/delhiuniversity/2015/01/unknown-facts-rk-laxman/|archive-date=4 February 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
* ''The Reel World'' [cartoons] published by Marwah Studio.
* {{cite book|last1=Laxman|first1=R. K.|last2=Ketkar|first2=Kumar|author-link2=Kumar Ketkar|title=Faces, Through the Eyes of R.K. Laxman|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BPXVAAAAMAAJ|year=2000|publisher=Bennett Coleman & Company}}
* {{cite book|last1=Laxman|first1=R. K.|last2=Ṭhakare|first2=Baḷa|last3=Kamath|first3=M. V.|author-link3=M. V. Kamath|title=Laughter lines: the cartoon craft of R.K. Laxman & Bal Thackery|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pXcMAQAAMAAJ|year=1999|publisher=Business Publications Inc|isbn=9788186982822 }}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=Doodles|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qBHWAAAAMAAJ|year=1975|publisher=India Book House}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=You said it|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5sS1AAAAIAAJ|year=1964|publisher=Times of India Press}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=Sorry, no room|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fwI9AAAAIAAJ|year=1969|publisher=IBH Pub. Co.}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=Madhya Pradesh, Random Sketches|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LEvRAAAAMAAJ|year=1985|publisher=Madhya Pradesh Madhyam, Directorate of Information & Publicity}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=The Very Best of the Common Man|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TrdJlQEACAAJ|year=2012|publisher=Penguin Books India|isbn=978-0-14-341871-9}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Common Man Balances His Budget|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=XEc7PQAACAAJ|date=30 March 2003|publisher=Penguin Group Australia|isbn=978-0-14-029928-1}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Penguin India Millennium Yearbook|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7zxUPgAACAAJ|publisher=Penguin Books India|isbn=978-0-670-88841-2}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Best of Laxman: Common Man Goes to the Village|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vSkeAgAACAAJ|date=30 March 2003|publisher=Penguin Group|isbn=978-0-14-029931-1}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=Thama and the Little Bird|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5jhmtwAACAAJ|year=1970|publisher=India Book House Education Trust}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Common Man Takes A Stroll|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=433KAAAACAAJ|publisher=Penguin Group|isbn=978-0-14-029933-5}}
* {{cite book|last1=Rangnekar|first1=Sharu|last2=Aras|first2=Kishor|last3=Laxman|first3=R. K.|author4=Pama Rangnekar|title=In the Wonderland of Indian Managers|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=sG1tHAAACAAJ|year=1977|publisher=Vikas Publ.}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=R. K. Laxman: The Uncommon Man : Collection of Works from 1948 to 2008|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bTdongEACAAJ|year=2009|publisher=Dharmendra Bhandari|isbn=978-81-908606-0-4}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Penguin India Yearbook 2001|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6LwtPwAACAAJ|date=1 November 2000|publisher=Penguin Books India|isbn=978-0-14-100261-3}}
* {{cite book|last1= Mitra|first1=Debkumar |last2=Laxman|first2=R.K.|title=Penguin India Desk Companion, The - 2010|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=lGnZQgAACAAJ|date=1 January 2009|publisher=Penguin Group|isbn=978-0-14-306718-4}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R K|title=Common Man Watches Cricket|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=71FJAAAACAAJ|date=30 March 2003|publisher=Penguin Group|isbn=978-0-14-029932-8}}
* {{cite book|last=Laxman|first=R. K.|title=A Vote for Laughter|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=1BEXAgAACAAJ|date=1 January 2003|publisher=Penguin Books|isbn=978-0-14-303086-7}}
* {{cite book|last1=Rangnekar|first1=Sharu|last2=Ṭhākara|first2=Dineśa|last3=Laxman|first3=R. K.|title=Prabandhananāṃ mūḷatattvo: In the world of corporate managersno Gujarātī anuvāda|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=1pJengEACAAJ|year=2013|language=gu|publisher=Navasarjana Pablikeśana|isbn=978-93-81443-72-9}}
* Unny, E.P. (2022). [https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60880082-rk-laxman?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=DRyHrBQ4pV&rank=1 ''RK Laxman: Back with a Punch'']. Niyogi Books''.'' ISBN 978-93-91125-27-1.
(He also wrote a book named ''Banker Margiah'' in Kannada to create awareness about Banking, about how to open a bank account by a common man. Later a movie was reseased. Which was awarded National Award as well.).
These references in popular culture highlight Laxman’s enduring impact on Indian society and his recognition as a cultural icon.
==Multimedia==
==Multimedia==
*India Through The Eyes of R. K. Laxman – Then To Now (CD-ROM).<ref>{{cite news|title=India Through the eyes of R. K. Laxman - Then To Now|url=http://india-through-the-eyes-of-r-k-laxman-the.software.informer.com/|access-date=27 January 2015|publisher=Software Informer}}</ref>
*India Through The Eyes of R. K. Laxman – Then To Now (CD-ROM).
*''[[R K Laxman Ki Duniya]]'', a television show on [[SAB TV]].<ref name="Celebs">{{cite news|title=Celebs mourn cartoonist RK Laxman|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/Celebs-mourn-cartoonist-RK-Laxman/photostory/46028128.cms|access-date=27 January 2015|work=[[The Times of India]]|publisher=[[The Times Group]]|date=27 January 2015}}</ref>
*''R K Laxman Ki Duniya'', a television show on SAB TV.
*''[[Wagle Ki Duniya]]'', a television show on [[DD National]].
*''Wagle Ki Duniya'', a television show on DD National.
== References ==
{{Reflist|2}}
==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category}}
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GT-_g1oNdo Documentary] by Films Division of India on YouTube
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GT-_g1oNdo Documentary] by [[Films Division of India]] on [[YouTube]]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZzTa2v-B-U Audio-visual presentation] by Sansad TV on YouTube (in Hindi)
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZzTa2v-B-U Audio-visual presentation] by [[Sansad TV]] on YouTube (in [[Hindi]])
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSxrss2U578 Interview] with Karan Thapar for the BBC show ''Face to Face'' on YouTube
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSxrss2U578 Interview] with [[Karan Thapar]] for the [[BBC]] show ''Face to Face'' on YouTube
{{RMA winners of India}}
{{Padma Vibhushan Awards}}
{{PadmaBhushanAwardRecipients 1970–79}}
{{Mysore topics}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Laxman, R.K.}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Laxman, R.K.}}
Latest revision as of 18:29, 5 December 2024
R. K. Laxman
Rasipuram Krishnaswami Laxman (24 October 1921 – 26 January 2015) was a celebrated Indian cartoonist, illustrator, and humorist. He gained widespread acclaim for his iconic creation, The Common Man, and for his daily cartoon strip You Said It, which began in The Times of India in 1951.
Birth and Childhood
Early Life and Education of R. K. Laxman
R. K. Laxman was born in 1921 in Mysore, Karnataka, into a Tamil Hindu family. His father, a school headmaster, and his mother raised eight children, including six sons and two daughters. Laxman was the youngest sibling, and his elder brother was the renowned novelist R. K. Narayan. Despite spending most of his life in Mumbai, Laxman earned the nickname “Pied Piper of Delhi” for his ability to charm audiences through his work.
From an early age, Laxman was captivated by illustrations in magazines such as The Strand, Punch, Bystander, Wide World, and Tit-Bits. Even before learning to read, he began drawing on floors, walls, and doors around his house, often sketching caricatures of his teachers. Encouraged by praise from a teacher who admired his drawing of a peepal leaf, Laxman started envisioning himself as an artist.
A significant influence on Laxman’s style was the work of British cartoonist Sir David Low, whose cartoons occasionally appeared in The Hindu. For a time, Laxman humorously misread Low’s signature as “cow,” a detail he recalls fondly in his autobiography, The Tunnel of Time.
Laxman’s childhood also included a passion for cricket, and he captained his local team, the “Rough and Tough and Jolly” cricket club. His spirited antics inspired his brother R. K. Narayan to write stories like Dodu the Money Maker and The Regal Cricket Club. However, his idyllic youth faced a disruption when his father suffered a paralytic stroke and passed away about a year later. Despite this loss, his family’s support allowed Laxman to continue his schooling at Maharaja’s Government High School in Mysore.
After high school, Laxman applied to the Sir J. J. Institute of Applied Art in Mumbai to pursue his passion for drawing and painting. However, the dean rejected his application, stating his drawings lacked “the kind of talent” required for enrollment. Undeterred, Laxman went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Mysore. During his college years, he honed his skills through freelance artistic projects, contributing cartoons to publications like Swarajya and creating an animated film featuring the mythological figure Narada.
R. K. Laxman began his artistic journey contributing to various newspapers and magazines, including Rohan, Swarajya, and Blitz. While studying at Maharaja’s College in Mysore, he illustrated stories by his elder brother R. K. Narayan published in The Hindu and created political cartoons for local newspapers such as Swatantra. He also contributed to the Kannada humor magazine Koravanji, founded in 1942 by humorist M. Shivaram, who played a significant role in encouraging Laxman’s early work.
During a summer job at Gemini Studios in Madras, Laxman further explored his artistic capabilities. His first full-time position as a political cartoonist was with The Free Press Journal in Mumbai, where he worked alongside future political figure Bal Thackeray. In 1951, Laxman joined The Times of India, where he remained for over five decades, solidifying his legacy as one of India’s most celebrated cartoonists.
The Common Man
Laxman’s most iconic creation, The Common Man, became a defining feature of his career. This character, featured in his pocket cartoons in The Times of India, served as a silent witness to the everyday struggles, absurdities, and nuances of Indian democracy. His cartoons often depicted issues of corruption, bureaucracy, and societal challenges, as anthropologist Ritu G. Khanduri observed:
“R. K. Laxman structures his cartoon-news through a plot about corruption and a set of characters. This news is visualized and circulates through the recurring figures of the mantri (minister), the Common Man, and the trope of modernity symbolized by the airplane.”
Other creations
In addition to his political cartoons, Laxman created “Gattu,” the beloved mascot for Asian Paints in 1954. His artistic versatility extended to writing as well, with his debut novel The Hotel Riviera garnering attention. Laxman’s work also featured in Indian cinema, with his cartoons appearing in the Hindi film Mr. & Mrs. ’55 and the Tamil film Kamaraj.
Laxman contributed significantly to television and other media. He illustrated for the acclaimed television adaptation of Malgudi Days, based on R. K. Narayan’s stories, and created characters for the Hindi sitcom Wagle Ki Duniya, set on the Konkan coast. Over the years, he also drew caricatures of notable figures like David Low, T. S. Eliot, Dr. Rajkumar, Bertrand Russell, J. B. Priestley, and Graham Greene, further showcasing his artistic prowess.
Personal life
R. K. Laxman was first married to Kumari Kamala, a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer and film actress who started her career as a child actress under the name “Baby Kamala” and later transitioned to adult roles as “Kumari Kamala.” The couple had no children and divorced in 1960.
Laxman later married his niece, Kamala Laxman, a children’s book author and writer. Reflecting their relationship, Laxman created a cartoon of Kamala for his series The Star I Never Met in the film magazine Filmfare, humorously titled “The star I only met!” The couple had a son, Srinivas Laxman, a Mumbai-based freelance space journalist who frequently contributed to The Times of India.
In September 2003, Laxman suffered a stroke that left him partially paralyzed on his left side. Despite this setback, he managed to recover partially and continued his creative work. On June 20, 2010, he was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai after being transported via air ambulance from Pune.
Laxman’s personal life was marked by both challenges and resilience, with his family and work remaining central to his identity.
A tribute to the late R. K. Laxman by cartoonist Shekhar GureraR. K. Laxman receives the Padma Vibhushan award from the President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in New Delhi on March 28, 2005
Death and Legacy
R. K. Laxman passed away on January 26, 2015, India’s Republic Day, at the age of 93. He died at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune after being hospitalized three days earlier for a urinary tract infection and chest complications, which eventually led to multiple organ failure. Laxman had suffered several strokes since 2010, which had affected his health in his final years.
Following his death, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) paid tribute to Laxman by posting one of his cartoons on their Facebook and Twitter pages on January 27, 2015. The cartoon celebrated the successful landing of Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission) on Mars, showcasing his enduring relevance and ability to capture the nation’s achievements through his art.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that Laxman would be accorded a state funeral, and a memorial would be built in his honor. His body was kept at the premises of the Symbiosis Institute in Pune, near the statue of his iconic creation, The Common Man, allowing admirers to pay their respects. Laxman was cremated at the Vaikunth Crematorium in Pune, marking the end of an illustrious life dedicated to humor, art, and social commentary.
R. K. Laxman remains an enduring figure in Indian art and journalism, with his legacy carried forward by his timeless cartoons and the universal appeal of The Common Man.
Awards and Recognition
R. K. Laxman received numerous accolades throughout his career, recognizing his unparalleled contributions to art, journalism, and creative communication.
Padma Bhushan – Government of India, 1973
Padma Vibhushan – Government of India, 2005
Ramon Magsaysay Award for Journalism, Literature, and Creative Communication Arts – 1984
Karnataka Rajyotsava Award – Government of Karnataka, 1983
Lifetime Achievement Award for Journalism – CNN IBN TV18, 29 January 2008
Pune Pandit Award (Scholar of Pune Award) – Art & Music Foundation, 2012, for excellence in creative communication
Honorary Doctorate – University of Mysore, 2004
In addition to these honors, Symbiosis International University in Pune established a chair named after R. K. Laxman to commemorate his legacy and inspire future generations.
The R. K. Laxman Museum, located in Pune, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the work and life of R. K. Laxman. The museum houses over 35,000 illustrations by the legendary cartoonist, with exhibits displayed across several galleries.
One gallery is entirely devoted to Laxman’s life, featuring rare photographs from his childhood and personal moments. It also includes photographs of his elder brother, the renowned novelist R. K. Narayan. The museum offers a multimedia experience, including a light-and-sound show, providing visitors with an immersive journey into Laxman’s artistic legacy and his contribution to Indian culture.
At the entrance of the museum stands a statue of The Common Man, symbolizing Laxman’s most iconic creation and his connection to the everyday lives of Indians.
Popular culture
Portrayal in Media: Actor Asif Ali Beg portrayed R. K. Laxman in the Sony LIV original web series Scam 1992, which is based on the 1992 Indian stock market scam involving Harshad Mehta. Laxman was depicted interacting with journalist Sucheta Dalal while working at The Times of India in Mumbai.
Google Doodle Tribute: On October 24, 2015, Google celebrated R. K. Laxman’s 94th birth anniversary with a dedicated Google Doodle. The illustration honored his legacy as a cartoonist and his iconic creation, The Common Man.
These references in popular culture highlight Laxman’s enduring impact on Indian society and his recognition as a cultural icon.
Multimedia
India Through The Eyes of R. K. Laxman – Then To Now (CD-ROM).
R K Laxman Ki Duniya, a television show on SAB TV.
Wagle Ki Duniya, a television show on DD National.
