Khaki Cartoon Festival Highlights Social Role of Cartoonists in Kundapura

Khaki Cartoon Festival Highlights Social Role of Cartoonists in Kundapura

Mangalore Today News Network

Kundapura, Nov 16, 2025: Cartoonists play a vital role in shaping society through powerful visual storytelling, said B. Dayanand, Director General of Police, Prisons and Correctional Services Department. He was speaking after inaugurating the Khaki Cartoon Festival at the Rotary Kalamandira of Kundapur Board High School on Saturday. The event is being held from November 15 to 19 in collaboration with the District Police Department.

Dayanand said cartoons are a unique art form capable of conveying strong messages with simple imagery. Cartoonists observe society closely and communicate uncomfortable truths through their lines, contributing to social correction and awareness, he noted.

District Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar, in his address, said cartoonists often face criticism but remain protected by their dedication to truth. He added that when those in power adopt anti-people stances or when society neglects women, children, Dalits and the poor, cartoonists raise timely alarms through their art.

Shankar also said this is the first event of its kind in the state, with 75 police personnel set to receive training in cartoon creation during the workshop.

Retired DCPs G.A. Bava and Vinay Gaonkar, senior advocate A.S.N. Hebbar, and Home Guards District Second-in-Command Rajesh K.C. addressed the gathering. Outstanding police personnel — Karkala Rural SI Prasanna, Armed Reserve SI Jose, DCRB ASI Prakash, Armed Head Constable Vijay Mogaveera (computer section), and DPO Civil Head Constable Shivananda B. — were honoured.

Cartoonist and organiser Satish Acharya proposed the vote of thanks. Lecturer Rohini compered the programme.