TRADITIONS OF COMICS IN INDIA JATAKA TALES WITH REFERENCE TO THE MODERN TIMES

V.Gayathri

Volume : VI, Issue : VI, June - 2016

TRADITIONS OF COMICS IN INDIA JATAKA TALES WITH REFERENCE TO THE MODERN TIMES

V. Gayathri

Abstract :

 Indian Comics and Amarchitrakatha go hand in hand with respect to Panchathantra Tales, Folk Tales, Hithopadesha, etc., One among them is Jataka Tales, which preaches the Buddhist Idealism. The belief of Hinduism in rebirth is mainly reflected in Jataka Tales. Here, Gautama Buddha takes birth as Bodhisatta or in the form of animals in his previous births and preaches morals through the stories. During the olden period, personal and social problems were same as the modern days. When human beings feel disturbed, they yearn for some solace, which soothes their mind. The scriptures in all religions preach the same notion of coming out of the problems in different ways. In Jataka Tales also, the same thing is reflected. This paper focuses on the stories, which evoke moral feelings such as consequences of Revenge, Greed, Misunderstanding, Miscommunication, Bad Company, and Foolishness. It also throws light on the issues like Women’s Emancipation, Environment and Education. Independent thought, Creative thinking and Learning to Survive are the needs of the Competitive Era. These stories act as a guiding factor in the modern world, where the moral values are not much concerned. Today’s youth lack the above mentioned values. Comics through visual aid and books could reach the people, because of its simple form. The values of life are hidden as treasure in Jataka Tales. When it is exposed and imparted in recreating aspect in the form of comics, it helps the mankind to face challenges, develop optimism and cultivate morals. It will make tremendous changes in the mindset of today’s youth to move ahead in right path, which is the utmost need of the hour in our country and the world over.