In the final year of my Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program, I undertook the task of crafting this book titled “Shishir Bhattacharya’s Cartoons.” Here, my primary endeavor was to unravel the rich history of Shishir Bhattacharya’s cartoons and the evolution of this art form. At the outset of the book, I aimed to provide insights into the history, dynamism, progression, and the dissemination of cartoons as an art form. I also sought to elucidate the motivations behind my writing on this subject.

Subsequently, I delved into how this art form, through Shishir Bhattacharya’s artistic prowess, began to gain popularity among the masses. I explored the significant role that cartoons played in the cultural, social, and political movements, shedding light on how they permeated various aspects of society. Shishir Bhattacharya, a prominent cartoonist and artist in Bangladesh, became intricately intertwined with both the world of art and the realm of cartoons.

His journey into the realm of cartoons commenced during his student years in the 1970s, during which he vehemently opposed the authoritarian regime’s various measures to stifle dissent within Dhaka University. He was an active participant in the student and teacher protests against the oppressive government. Shishir Bhattacharya’s resistance became a beacon of defiance, and he chose cartoons as his medium of protest. One of his most remarkable acts of protest was a cartoon titled “Ekphellechen,” a profoundly striking cartoon that was published in a book called “Dakshur Udbog” (The South’s Challenge). It is said that this was the genesis of his cartooning journey.

In the later part of the 1970s, his cartoons found their way into the monthly publication “Ajker Kagoj” and, subsequently, “Vorer Kagoj”, before ultimately gracing the pages of “Prothom Alo,” one of the leading newspapers in Bangladesh. From there, his cartoons embarked on a transformative journey. They not only became a source of artistic expression but also a powerful tool for raising social awareness and protesting injustice. Simultaneously, they served as an inspiration to budding artists, igniting their passion for cartooning.

Presently, the art of cartooning has garnered widespread acclaim across the globe, and Shishir Bhattacharya, with his remarkable talent, has achieved fame both nationally and internationally. In our nation, he is celebrated as an icon of this art form, and his cartoons continue to captivate audiences.

In conclusion, Shishir Bhattacharya’s journey through the world of cartoons is nothing short of remarkable. It has not only left an indelible mark on the art world but has also served as a catalyst for societal consciousness and resistance against injustice. Simultaneously, it has inspired a new generation of artists to pick up the mantle of cartooning. Today, his cartoons resonate with audiences worldwide, and in our country, his name is synonymous with excellence in this field.