Surendra, an Indian political cartoonist laureate, has graced the pages of The Hindu newspaper with his insightful sketches for over two decades. He wields his pen with dexterity and imagination, using his artistic prowess to shed light on India's socio-political ripples through the lens of satire. This article traces his inspiring journey and explores the impact of his body of work in shaping India's political narrative.
Born P. Surendranath Reddy in Kadapa in 1962, Surendra found his calling quite early in his life. His foray into the world of cartoons began in the office of his father, a sub-editor in a Telugu weekly. The exposure to editorial cartoons fostered a fascination that ultimately paved the way to his illustrious career as a political cartoonist. After a tumultuous ride spanning several publications, his talent found a home in The Hindu, where he has been a key pillar since 1996.
The association with The Hindu gave Surendra a robust platform. Despite initial struggles, with the guidance and encouragement of editors like N. Ravi, he honed his skills, shaping his narratives with intelligence, wit, and profound understanding of India's political landscape.
Surendra's association with N. Ram, who took over the reins from Ravi, further fine-tuned his artistry. Evolving his style, Surendra won the approval and admiration of Ram, known for his critical eye and high expectations.
Surendra shared a heartening bond with Keshav, an esteemed cartoonist in The Hindu. His admiration and friendship with Keshav further inspired his work, with their mutual respect promoting an environment of camaraderie. The two artists continue to inject vibrancy and elucidation into the political conversations in India.
Surendra has contributed immensely to political satire, using his pen to tell compelling stories about India's political dynamics. He was bestowed with the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013 by Cartoon Watch for his exemplary contribution to the field of cartooning.
Surendra's journey as a political cartoonist is marked by resilience, creativity, a sense of humour, and a deep understanding of India's political milieu. His work continues to blur the lines between humour and critique, using wit as a tool to capture attention and provoke thought, making him an integral part of Indian journalism and a celebrated treasure in the world of cartooning. As he inks new narratives, his work continues to inspire, entertain, and inform readers, making him a beacon in the realm of cartoon commentary..
