With a resurgence fueled by events like Comic Con India and the upcoming Comic Creator Championship, Indian comics are making a powerful comeback, writes SUPRIYA GHAYTADAK

Growing up, comics were an integral part of my life. My brother and I would save every bit of our pocket money just to buy our favourite comics. Whether it was Champak, Amar Chitra Katha, Super Commando Dhruv, Nagraj or Chacha Chaudhary stories fueled our imagination and became a key part of our reading journey. Whenever someone asked what we wanted for our birthdays, the answer was always the same-comics! Those colourful pages, filled with heroes and adventures, were more than just entertainment; they were treasured gifts that we eagerly awaited and cherished.

There was a time when streetside stalls, bookstores, bus stands, and railway stations buzzed with the vibrant display of comic books. The chatter of children and adults alike, poring over pages that transported them to fantastical worlds, was a common scene. Comics like Amar Chitra Katha's mythological tales, Chacha Chaudhary's wit, or Raj Comics' heroic sagas, invoked a sense of wonder and excitement. For many of us, these stories were more than just a form of entertainment; they were an integral part of our childhood-a gateway to imagination and learning.

As years passed, digital platforms gradually replaced the physical charm of these marvels. Yet, in this fast-paced world, the nostalgia for these stories remains strong. Many long for the days when characters like Bahadur, Super Commando Dhruv, Parmanu, Tenali Raman, Suppandi, and Shikari Shambu lived not just in our imagination but in the comic strips that shaped our understanding of bravery, wit, and justice. For older generations, these comics represent a simpler time, filled with cultural knowledge and entertainment. For the younger generation, revisiting them now holds the potential to rediscover India's rich folklore and mythologies while connecting with modern interpretations of these beloved characters.

The Indian comic industry, once a booming sector from the 1970s to the 1990s, produced iconic characters and stories that captured the hearts of millions. The 'Golden Age' of Indian comics brought us legendary creators like Pran, whose Chacha Chaudhary became a household name, and the rise of superhero giants from Raj Comics. It was an era when Indian superheroes, mythological epics, and social commentary blended seamlessly, creating relatable content that resonated with generations.

However, at the turn of the millennium, the industry witnessed a decline. Changing reading habits, the rise of television, and the flood of digital content pushed these comics to the background. Yet, despite this downturn, the comic book medium is quietly experiencing a resurgence, aided by digital platforms and a renewed interest in India's rich storytelling tradition.

The resurgence of Indian comics is further boosted by the growing popularity of Comic Con events across India. These conventions unite fans, creators, and industry experts, celebrating iconic Indian characters while introducing international comics and pop culture trends. Through cosplay, artist meet-and-greets, and panel discussions, these events keep the love for comics alive, connecting younger generations to India's comic legacy while embracing global influences.

In a landmark move, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B), Government of India has partnered with the Indian Comics Association (ICA) to spearhead the first-ever Comic Creator Championship (CCC), a centrepiece event at the upcoming World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES). This three-phase comic-making competition is designed to nurture emerging talent and showcase India's creative potential on a global stage. By providing a platform for both amateur and professional creators, the CCC encourages fresh voices to engage in storytelling that tackles contemporary issues while preserving India's timeless narrative traditions. Interested creators can find more details and register on the website of WAVES.

Comics remain one of the most accessible mediums to convey stories-whether educating the youth about history, addressing social issues, or providing pure escapism through fantasy. With initiatives like the CCC, Indian comics are poised for a modern golden age, where tradition meets innovation.

Now, more than ever is the time to reignite our love for comics. These aren't just stories from the past; they symbolise an ongoing dialogue between India's cultural heritage and the present. Comics have the power to inspire new generations, offer solace, and spark the imagination. As digital platforms democratize access to these narratives, an entire world of possibilities opens up for creators and readers alike.

As we look to the future, let us celebrate this revival by participating in the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES), to be held in New Delhi from February 5th to 9th, 2025. This summit promises to be a landmark event, uniting industry experts, creators, and fans. It will also host the final round of the Comics Creator Championship, where India's brightest new talents will be showcased. Together, we can ensure that the stories of the past continue to inspire, innovate, and captivate audiences in the future.

India's comic industry stands on the threshold of a renaissance, and all are invited to be a part of it. Now is the time to turn the page and start a new chapter in the vibrant world of Indian comics. Let's revive and elevate Indian comics to their rightful place in popular culture.

(The writer is an Indian Information Service officer, Ministry of I&B; views are personal)