Comics in Bengal

Comics in Bengal is a one-of-a-kind, captivating exhibition presented by Kolkata Centre for Creativity in collaboration with Comics Culture Collective from 9 February to 9 March at the KCC Amphitheatre. The exhibition would shed light on the evolution of Bengali comics from its inception in the 1920s to the present day. The wide array of exhibits including prints of rare newspaper strips, magazines, comic books, and some original artworks will be on display giving the audience a comprehensive idea about the dissemination of the genre and how it made its way to the popular imagination of the readers, especially from the 1960s onwards. The display would aim to celebrate the creativity, innovation, and artistry that have shaped the comic culture in Bengal. 

Embark on a journey through time, exploring one of the earliest Bengali comic creations that laid the foundation for the vibrant industry we see today. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories, iconic characters, and breathtaking illustrations—from horror and detective comics to advertisements and adventure comics—that have won the hearts of millions.

Comics in Bengal is not just an exhibition; it is also a tribute to the brilliant minds behind these masterpieces namely comic book illustrators including Narayan Debnath, Kafi Khan (Prafulla Chandra Lahiri / P.C.L. / Piciel), Mayukh Chowdhury, Sailya Chakraborty, Sufi, Pratul Bandhopadhyay, and Tushar Chatterjee who honed their skills through regular publications in Bengali periodicals like Mouchak, Nabakallol, Suktara, Sandesh, and Kishore Bharati, among others. This led to them reaching into the hearts and minds of a large number of people, forming a new subculture in Bengal. These artists found a community of target audiences, or a fandom, that validated their work as worthy of attention. This growing community had a significant impact that spawned an unprecedented amount of comic strips on public demand in successive decades. Experience the sheer talent and dedication that have contributed to the growth spurt of this incredibly popular art form.

Whether you are a seasoned comic enthusiast or new to this captivating world, this exhibition promises an unforgettable experience for all. Join us at Kolkata Centre for Creativity as we pay homage to the rich heritage of Bengali comics and explore the diverse creativity that continues to shape their future. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to witness the magic of ‘Comics in Bengal.’ 

We also have a series of vibrant talks lined up. 

Download the schedule here!
Free entry, bur prior registration is mandatory
Click here to register
Comics Culture Collective consists of:

Biswadeb Gangopadhyay, an avid bibliophile and the person behind the cult Bengali magazine ‘Bishoy Cartoon’

Debasis Gupta, ardent bibliophile and a repository of knowledge regarding comics

Pinaki De, graphic designer-illustrator, and comics scholar

Rituparno Basu, cartoonist, and researcher

Swagata Dutta Burman, comics collector, and researcher

KCC, in collaboration with Comics Culture Collective, presents a comic workshop, Thinking Comics, Doing Comics, facilitated by Harsho Mohan Chattoraj (Comics Artist) and Sujog Bandyopadhyay (Comics Artist) as a collateral event of our upcoming exhibition Comics in Bengal. This will be a hands-on interactive workshop where the participants will get to interact with well-known comic artists Harsho Mohan Chattoraj and Sujog Bandyopadhyay and create their own one-page comics by the end of the session.

Register yourself for the workshop!


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After the workshop, the facilitators will be in conversation with Debasis Gupta (Comics enthusiast) and Biswadeb Gangopadhyay (Comics Editor) and they will discuss the Future of Bengali Comics/Bangla Comics er Bhobishyot.