Indian Graphic Narratives: Critical Responses by Dr. Sapna Dogra
Reviewed by
Savita Kiran
Assistant Professor
Department of English
Zakir Husain Delhi College
New Delhi, India
Indian Graphic Narratives: Critical Responses | Literary Criticism | Dr. Sapna Dogra
Atlantic Publishers, 2024, INR 450, pp. 107
ISBN: 978-81-269-3824-7
Indian Graphic Narratives: Critical Responses edited by Sapna Dogra, is a pivotal addition to the expanding field of graphic novel studies in India. This collection unites a diverse array of scholars who examine the multifaceted nature of this dynamic medium. The book presents a rich tapestry of critical perspectives on Indian graphic narratives, exploring themes such as gender, violence, urban landscapes, and psychological trauma. The essays delve into the complexities of these narratives, investigating how they address social and cultural issues and utilize the unique visual and textual language of comics to convey their messages.
A key strength of the book is its focus on a wide range of graphic narratives, from mainstream works to independent and experimental comics. This approach allows for a nuanced understanding of the medium’s diversity and complexity in India. The inclusion of essays on specific works, such as Amruta Patil’s Kari and Sarnath Banerjee’s Corridor, provides in-depth analyses of individual texts, while broader chapters explore overarching themes and trends. The editor has skillfully structured the book to ensure a seamless flow between different perspectives and approaches. The inclusion of essays on the pedagogical potential of graphic narratives and their use in education adds a valuable dimension, highlighting the medium’s versatility and impact.
While the book offers a comprehensive overview of Indian graphic narratives, it could benefit from deeper attention to the historical and cultural contexts in which these works emerged. A more thorough exploration of the relationship between Indian graphic narratives and global comic book traditions would also enhance the discussion.
Indian Graphic Narratives: Critical Responses stands as a versatile resource due to its scholarly discipline and diverse perspectives, blending theoretical frameworks with detailed text analysis. This approach makes it accessible to both seasoned researchers and newcomers to the field. It significantly contributes to the scholarly literature on Indian graphic novels, offering fresh perspectives and fostering critical thinking through its careful examination of major works and broader themes. Highlighting the richness and impact of Indian graphic novels, the book showcases how the interplay of words and images provides insightful social commentary. For researchers, literary students, and graphic novel enthusiasts, it serves as a gateway to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indian visual narratives.
This book is an essential resource for
scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the significance of
this dynamic and evolving art form. By bringing together a diverse range of perspectives,
it makes a valuable contribution to the ongoing conversation about the role of
graphic narratives in contemporary Indian culture.