✨The Man with No Hater✨
(Part III)
The final segment of the magician's journey reveals how his later days were. Join us in uncovering the final chapter of the legend's journey.
As he grew older, it became increasingly challenging for him to maintain the continuity of four to five series every month. Consequently, he gradually reduced his production of new series and comics. Instead, he
decided to focus on his most popular works, Bantul, Nonte Fonte.
He initially started with black
and white versions, then progressed to two-colour and four colour versions, followed by fully coloured
watercolour editions for special issues, and eventually digitally coloured versions of the comics.
His works became immensely popular among kids, leading to their publication in English and Hindi nationally. They were even reprinted and republished separately in Bangladesh. Later on, Nonte Fonte was adapted into a 2D Bengali animation series,
which garnered significant popularity among children eagerly awaiting its
weekly telecasts. Due to the tremendous success of the animation show, Hada Bhoda, Bantul & Khadu were also transformed into cartoon shows. The captivating plotlines attracted audiences of all ages,
and even today, these shows generate millions of views on YouTube, highlighting their enduring
acceptance in society. Recently, a feature film based on the series Nonte Fonte was also produced. These
creations are truly timeless and evergreen.
Debnath greatly admired the illustrator Pratul Babu, who was a well-known figure in the art world during Debnath's younger days. He openly acknowledged being deeply influenced by Pratul Babu's works and artistic style.
Additionally, Debnath held a great admiration for the renowned illustrator Mayukh Chowdhury. Despite his immense contributions, Debnath lamented that many elites in the cultural world perceived him merely as an illustrator and not a fully-fledged author.
Throughout his career spanning over
60 years, Debnath established a remarkable record of the longest-running published comic series. He created thousands (over 1500) of original characters, stories, and artworks, consistently bringing unlimited amusement to readers.
However, being regarded solely as an illustrator instead of an accomplished author had hurt Debnath on several occasions. Nevertheless, he found solace in the love and affection received from multiple generations of readers, which meant more to him than anything else.
Fortunately, our authorities were able to attribute this legend to some extent during his lifetime, although it took a while. This was truly satisfying. One of his sweetest memories was receiving praise from President
APJ Abdul Kalam, which he cherished.
In 2013, the West Bengal Government honored him with the prestigious Banga Bibhushan award for his immense contributions. He was also awarded the esteemed
Sahitya Academy award that same year,
where his contributions were recognized not only as a comic
illustrator but also as a significant figure in literature. However, as old age set in, Narayan Debnath's physical abilities declined, and he struggled to continue
designing series after series.
His health deteriorated during this time, and the pandemic further impacted
him. He became weak and ill. Just then, a momentous announcement was made. The Government declared that Narayan Debanath would be awarded the Padmashri award in 2021 for his unparalleled contributions
to the field of graphical storytelling in India. He held a unique record for the longest-running comic series
and the greatest number of published illustrations by an artist in his lifetime. Despite his illness at the time
of the announcement, joy filled his heart,
and fans were thrilled to see his childhood finally being honoured.
The ceremony took place on 26th January, 2021. Even, at the age of 96, Debnath continued his habit of
sitting at his desk and illustrating, although most days he struggled due to health issues.
His indomitable spirit mirrored that of his characters. He is the only artist who has been conferred an honorary D.Litt. title by Rabindra Bharati. As mentioned earlier, age took its toll on him, and his health deteriorated rapidly. On 18th January 2022,
the magician attained immortality. A viral video on social media captured him scratching his pen on paper just a few days before his death, despite his trembling hands and weak body. He created an illustration of his favourite child, Bantul.
Although the legend is no longer with us, his characters live on and will continue to do so for generations to come. Bengal has a rich legacy of producing some of the greatest cartoonists and illustrators from an early time, starting from Rebatibhushan, Gaganendranath Tagore,
Kaafi Kha, Saila Chakraborty to Chandi Lahiri, and others. However, Narayan Debanth was unique within his own genre and body of work, and he had a profound impact on readers spanning three ot five generations.
His comic books provided tough
competition to books and magazines from renowned authors and publications during his peak time.
Animation shows based on his works outshone other cartoon shows. Such was his significant influence.
His body of work was so vast that it is challenging for anyone to compile everything and do justice to each of
his creations in a write-up. Still, Lamati and other publications made tremendous efforts to tackle the
monumental task of compiling his works.
Finally, they were able to create the comprehensive Comic Samagra in multiple parts, which brought together most of his works under a single roof. Not only were many lost illustrations and series restored.
Narayan Debanth was not just an artist but a beloved figure who touched the hearts of countless people. With his creative genius, he transported readers into a world of joy, wonder, and imagination. His work
evoked smiles, laughter, and a sense of nostalgia.
He was a magician and legend, and in the truest sense, he is a man without haters, someone who painted a canvas of happiness and beyond.
(END OF FINAL PART) .
Checkout the Part I here :
Checkout the Part II here :
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