New Delhi: With the general elections fast approaching, Chacha Chaudhary, whose brain works faster than a computer, and his henchman Sabu – who is from Jupiter, as well as another popular figure among children, Billoo, are now roped in by the Election Commission of India to inspire the youth to enrol and participate in the “festival of democracy”.
These comic characters have charmed audiences with their captivating dialogues and interactions and evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. They will now figure in the book Chacha Chaudhary aur Chunavi Dangal (Chacha Chaudhary and the Electoral Battle) to educate and motivate young voters in the run-up to the general elections. The comic book features the iconic cartoon characters Chacha Chaudhary, Sabu, and Billoo, brought to life by the renowned cartoonist, late Pran Kumar Sharma.
The comic book was launched by Chief Election Commission (CEC) Rajiv Kumar and Election Commissioners Anup Chandra Pandey and Arun Goel at Nirvachan Sadan, here today.
The comic book is a joint initiative of the Election Commission of India and Pran Comics.
In the comic, Chacha Chaudhary plays a pivotal role in introducing readers to various apps developed by the Election Commission of India like cVigil and KYC, thereby empowering them to become active and informed participants in the election process. Furthermore, the comic book strongly emphasises the significance of women’s participation in the electoral process, aligning with ECI efforts to increase women’s participation.
“Comic as an outreach medium is irreplaceable and relevant even in today’s digital age,” Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said. “As we look back on cherished childhood days, we delve into the nostalgic adventures we shared with Chacha Chaudhary comics,” he added.
As it is, Chacha Chaudhary’s popularity transcends urban cities, resonating deeply in small towns and villages across India. Since its introduction by cartoonist Pran Kumar Sharma in 1960, the character’s enduring appeal has stood the test of time.
The Election Commission believes that since the characters of Chacha Chaudhary and Sabu hold a special place in the hearts of readers of all generations, this unique initiative harnesses the emotional connection it forges through nostalgia, creating a holistic approach to voter awareness.
Recalling his childhood memories, the CEC said that these comic characters, with their universal appeal and emphasis on values like honesty, kindness and compassion, provide an engaging platform to convey election-related information creatively. “With a significant following among children and teenagers, this medium enables the Election Commission to effectively engage with the youth, fostering a sense of informed and responsible citizenship from an early age. The comic will help kids to imagine the election process, and it will also help the older generation to revive their earlier days,” he averred.
EC Anup Chandra Pandey said that the comic book has attempted to present critical issues like ethical elections, participative democracy, and muscle and money power in a very lucid and reader-friendly manner to impact children and adults alike. According to EC Arun Goel, the comic book has a positive and constructive message along with humour about the election process and it nudges the young and future voters for enhanced participation in the election process.
The ECI stated that this comic book serves as a multifaceted tool, addressing various critical aspects of voter awareness. Its primary focus is to encourage young eligible voters to register themselves, ensuring their active participation in forthcoming elections.
This comic is available in both print and digital formats, ensuring accessibility across all platforms. Additionally, to inspire young minds, free copies of the comic book will be distributed to schools, educating future voters about the elections. A Digital Copy of the comic can be accessed at https://ecisveep.nic.in/files/file/2152-chacha-chaudhary-aur-chunavi-dangal/
Nikhil Pran, Director and Publisher of the Pran Comics and senior officials of the Commission were also present on the occasion.
– global bihari bureau
