Veteran cartoonist Shivram Dattatreya Phadnis, affectionately known as S D Phadnis or ‘Shi Da’, marks his 100th birthday on July 29, 2025. Born in Bhoj village in Belgaum district in 1925, Phadnis has been an influential force in Indian cartooning, particularly in Marathi-language publications. What started as a hobby in his youth evolved into a lifelong journey that shaped Indian visual satire and illustration.
While reflecting on his career, Phadnis shared with the Hindustan Times, “What began as fun became my identity.” Over time, he recognised the deeper impact cartoons could have, especially in politics, science, and education. “Cartoons,” he says, “can be the language of democracy -and also the language of knowledge.”
A graduate of Sir J J School of Art in Mumbai, Phadnis was deeply influenced by artists like Mario Miranda, Vasant Sarwate, and American illustrator Norman Rockwell. His first cartoon was published in the magazine Manohar in 1945 while he was still a student. Encouraged by its reception, he went on to work with literary publications like Hans and Mohini.
Phadnis’ long-standing collaboration with Mohini, which began in the early 1950s, lasted for over five decades. His colourful, caption-less illustrations on the magazine’s Diwali Ank covers redefined the possibilities of cartooning, showing that humour didn’t need words to resonate. His drawings were more than gags- they were miniature paintings full of emotion, insight, and storytelling.
Between 1963 and 1975, his political and social cartoons were regularly featured in weeklies like Manoos and Sobat. He addressed not only politics but also complex themes like grammar, law, science, and banking through his art -always keeping the tone accessible and humorous.
His signature style focused on middle-class life, with scenes drawn from everyday moments: domestic quarrels, parenting dilemmas, or street-side banter. Phadnis believed in showcasing reality with a sense of warmth, not mockery.
In his 2011 autobiography Reshatan: Athavanincha Pravas, he chronicled his 60-year artistic journey and advocated for cartoonists' rights. Phadnis was married to noted Marathi writer Shakuntala Phadnis, who passed away in recent years. They have two daughters.
As he turns 100, S D Phadnis is celebrated not just as a cartoonist but as a cultural icon who turned ink and paper into timeless reflections of Indian life.
