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Sharp wit

Photo: Murali Kumar k.

ARTISTIC Balraj

There is a reason K.N. Balraj is both a cartoonist and copy-writer. The art of turning a punch line on its head requires not only a bold hand but also an out-of-the-box mind.

The wife telling her indolent husband to think out of the idiot-box, in one his cartoons, could well be Balraj. Move over jokes, its now time for jokes on jokes at the Indian Cartoon Gallery at Midford House where Bajraj’s works are being exhibited till November 14.

In the cartoonist’s words, the exhibition titled “Life in Black and White” is a tribute to simpler lines and sharper meanings. Balraj’s cartoons move out of the political arena to explore the less cartooned territories of relationships, business, and popular culture in the country. In his signature style of subverting a popular witticism, Balraj delivers tongue-in-cheek commentaries on the mall-nourished, “I did not have a single meeting in 48 hours” lifestyle that we all lead.

Watch out for Balraj’s birdies: they can chat up on fidayeen and jetlag and then are afraid to cross the road. Balraj’s simple cartoons are easy to relate with, and are guaranteed to earn a chuckle.

Balraj enjoys the unique reputation of being published on both the editorial and the advertisement sections of newspapers. His cartoons have appeared in the Bangalore Mirror, The Caravan and Deccan Herald. Advertising agencies such as Ogilvy & Mather and J.W. Thompson have repeatedly called him to tap his literary and artistic prowess for their clients.

The cartoons on display at the IIC are also on sale for Rs. 1,000 each (framing Rs. 500 extra). The exhibition is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For details call: 41758504.

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