Amar Chitra Katha, a cartoon that narrates India's scientific tale, meets IISc

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru has used an ancient but cherished storytelling technique to preserve its history in a time of scrolling screens and diminishing attention spans. In partnership with Amar Chitra Katha, the institute has published a comic book that combines history, creativity, and patriotism into an approachable story for a younger audience.The concept of a comic book coming out of a scientific institution can seem strange at first. However, IISc's inspiration stems from its own history, which predates India's independence.The institute, which was established by Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata during British colonial authority, has served as a symbol of national development and scientific aspirations for more than a century. However, a large portion of this rich legacy is still unknown to the general population, particularly young adults and children.

"The concept was straightforward," according to project participants. "How can we make the remarkable history of IISc interesting and approachable?" The solution took the shape of a comic, an art form that has exposed Indian generations to mythology, history, and culture for decades. The institute stated that it felt like a natural fit to collaborate with Amar Chitra Katha, a well-known brand known for its vivid storytelling. It added that IISc's Office of Communications started the partnership, and the Amar Chitra Katha team quickly joined in, realizing how important it is to tell the story of Indian science in a compelling way.The comic chronicles IISc's development from its inception to its rise to prominence as a worldwide hub for innovation and research. The Mysore royal family provided significant support for Tata's innovative plan to establish a scientific institution for India. The story then shifts to 1911, the year IISc began welcomed students.