User:Sureshmullasseril70/sandbox

CARTOONIST P. RAVINDRAN:

P. Ravindran, a celebrated cartoonist of his era, left an indelible mark on Indian cartooning with his insightful and often witty creations. His cartoons were not mere sketches but profound reflections, addressing both national and international issues, offering astute commentary on politics, society, and culture. Renowned for their sharp wit and incisive observations, Ravindran's cartoons elevated him to a position of respect within the field.

Born on April 17, 1924, in Mannar, Alleppey district, as the son of Haripad Putiyekkal K. Paramu Pillai and Bhargaviyamma of Mullasseril, Mannar, Ravindran embarked on his cartooning journey in the 1960s and remained active until the 1990s. Shankar, the esteemed figure considered the founding father of Indian cartooning, is a relative of P. Ravindran. He served as a staff cartoonist for several prominent newspapers and magazines in Mumbai, including Blitz, Illustrated Weekly, Times of India, The Hindu, and Indian Express.

A significant contribution to the field came through Ravindran's own bi-monthly publication "Pick," which played a pivotal role in fostering humor and cartoons in Mumbai. Moreover, he ventured into the Malayalam film industry, directing and scripting the Malayalam film "Manushyan," released in 1979. Ravindran's cartoons frequently adorned the pages of Indian Express and other Malayalam publications, earning him widespread acclaim. His column "Unseen Kerala" in The Indian Express Weekend and his caricature, “Prathichaya” in Malayala Manorama Weekly, garnered particular admiration.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ravindran maintained close associations with prominent figures in politics and society, including Indira Gandhi, EMS, A.K. Gopalan, and Bal Thackeray. Despite his demise on December 15, 2003, at his residence in Aluva, Ernakulam district, Ravindran's legacy endures, inspiring both cartoonists and readers alike. His contributions to Indian cartooning are fondly remembered, and his cartoons remain relevant, cherished for their timeless humor and keen observations.