Tribute to a Legend: Remembering Harish Chandra Shukla, aka Kaak

Renowned cartoonist Harish Chandra Shukla, known as Kaak, passed away at 85 due to a heart attack. His satirical political cartoons were a staple in the 1980s-1990s newspapers, earning him a range of accolades. Shukla's career spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on readers across India.

Veteran cartoonist Harish Chandra Shukla, fondly known by his pen name Kaak, died on Wednesday following a heart attack, according to family sources. He was 85 and leaves behind his wife and four sons. His incisive cartoons in the 1980s and 1990s captured complex political scenarios with wit and humor, establishing a substantial reader base across the nation.

Shukla embarked on his journey from the quaint village of Pura in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao district, where he was born on March 16, 1940. Although trained as a mechanical engineer, his true calling lay in cartoon journalism. Influenced by his father, Shobha Nath, a freedom fighter, he navigated the socio-political canvas with a distinctive perspective.

Launching his career in 1967 with Dainik Jagran, Shukla's golden era spanned prominent newspapers like Jansatta and Navbharat Times. His illustrious work earned him numerous awards, including the 'Kaka Hathrasi Samman,' the Lifetime Achievement Award, and recognitions from the Press Council of India and the Indian Institute of Cartoonists for his enduring contribution to journalism.

(With inputs from agencies.)