Bengaluru's art lovers and cartoon enthusiasts are set for a nostalgic treat as the centenary of legendary cartoonist Mario Miranda is celebrated with a special exhibition from May 2 to May 23 at the Indian Cartoon Gallery on MG Road.
Exhibition Highlights
Organised by the Indian Institute of Cartoonists (IIC), the showcase will feature more than 110 of Miranda's works, including beloved characters like Miss Nimbupani and Miss Fonseca. Known for his witty, richly detailed, and often humorous portrayals of everyday life, Mario brought cities and their people alive on paper — whether it was the bustling chaos of Mumbai or the laid-back charm of Goa.
His signature style, teeming with lively characters and layered scenes, captured social quirks with affection rather than sharp satire. He also shared a long-standing association with The Times Group, with his work appearing prominently in The Times of India and The Illustrated Weekly of India.
Tribute from the Cartoonist Fraternity
"The Indian cartoonist fraternity is proud to celebrate Mario. He won international fame and carved a niche for himself with his inimitable style. He was also a down-to-earth person, always mingling with all cartoonists, even youngsters, and was much-loved in the fraternity. He was the first person to support the establishment of IIC, and he became a patron, too," said V G Narendra, founder and managing trustee of IIC.
Recalling Mario's connection with Bengaluru, Narendra added, "He had a grand exhibition of his work in 2009 in Bengaluru. He also worked with Dom Moraes on 'The Open Eyes: A Journey through Karnataka,' a book commissioned by the state government." Illustrations from this book will also be part of the exhibition, alongside political cartoons and rare photographs from Mario's personal life, Narendra said.
Influence on Contemporary Artists
For many contemporary artists, Mario's influence remains deeply personal. Bengaluru-based artist Paul Fernandes said, "It is great to be celebrating his work. He really captured the essence of life in big cities across the world. With his work, he led a billion people to overcome language and intellectual barriers."
The exhibition will be open from 10 am to 6 pm on all days except Sundays and public holidays, and entry is free. This celebration not only honors Mario Miranda's legacy but also offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the charm and wit of one of India's most beloved cartoonists.
In addition to the main exhibition, the event will include rare memorabilia and insights into Mario's creative process, making it a must-visit for fans of art and cartoons alike. The Indian Cartoon Gallery continues to be a hub for preserving and promoting the art of cartooning in India, and this exhibition marks a significant milestone in its efforts.
