Aam – E – Saanjh A tribute to R. K. Laxman

March 13, 2026 maharashtralokmanch

R. K. Laxman, one of India’s most iconic cartoonist, illustrator and humorist who captured the pulse of everyday life of the common people of India through his cartoons which provided a sharp satirical lens on the Indian democracy emphasising its strengths, shortcomings and its contradictions which are relevant even today. For his contribution to the literary field he was awarded the Padma Bhushan (1973) and later the Padma Vibhushan (2005) by the Government of India.

WHAT : The festival invites well known artists from different sects of media to give voice to the common people and to reflect on everyday realities of life complementing Laxman’s work filled with satire and humour through Poetry, Reading sessions and Talks.

Schedule and Artists – Every artist has a 45 minute session

This is a 2 day festival which is scheduled on the 28^th and 29^th of March 2026.

Artists for 28^th March.

1: Ratna Pathak Shah – Known for her work in Hindi theatre, films and television

2: Swanand Kirkire – Lyricist, singer, writer and actor

3: Bharat Dabholkar – Actor, director, playwright and advertising professional

4: Prasoon Joshi – Poet, writer, lyricist, communication specialist and screenwriter

Artists for 29^th March.

1: Vaibhav Joshi – Lyricist and musical artist

2: Mahesh Manjrekar – Director, actor, producer and screenwriter

3: Alok Nirantar – Cartoonist

4: Javed Akhtar – Screenwriter, lyricist, poet and political activist