Born in 1924, starts by sketching crows on walls while 3. Considers crows “smart” and “can count till 7”! Despite having a headmaster for a father, A poor student, often failed his examinations. Applies to JJ School of Arts, gets rejected. Is told his drawings “lacked the talent”. Barely manages to finish graduation. Begins cartooning for the Free Press Journal in 1947, After The Hindustan Times rejects him for being too young. Quits and joins Times of India 6 months later. In 1951, The Common Man makes his first appearance. And continues to observe us till this very day. Honored with the Padma Bhushan in 1973. The Ramon Magsaysay Award, Asia’s premier journalism award,in 1984. And the Padma Vibhushan, in 2005. Rasipuram Krishnaswamy Laxman. Brother of RK ‘Malgudi Days’ Narayan. Father of The Common Man – the silent observer. Who hasn’t spoken a single word. Yet remains the voice of an entire nation. |
