Kashmir Pending: Decoding the Graphic Novels in Indian English Patil Satyajit T. Associate Professor, Department of English, Pemraj Sarda College, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India, Email id: satyajitpatil76@gmail.com Online Published on 21 October, 2022. Abstract At its simplest, “graphic novel” is an extended story told using comics throughout. The domain of graphic novels includes fiction as well as non-fiction. Sometimes, it is described only as a format, not as a genre. A graphic novel uses sequential art to unfold the plot. Usually, it tells a story that has a beginning, middle and end, as opposed to an ongoing series which moves on by adding new characters. From a critical perspective, graphic novel is a hybrid formation as it combines characteristics of the verbal with the visual. As such, it is difficult to gauge the literary worth of a graphic novel. Moreover, due to vivid illustrations, there is scanty scope for visualisation. In a way, this is an encroachment on the reader's right to envisage persons and places using his/her own perception. Graphic books in India have a considerably old history dating back to Amar Chitra Katha comic series (1967) and the Chacha Choudhury (1971) comic series which were immensely popular among the youngsters. The present article deals with a pioneering graphic novel, Kashmir Pending (2007). It is a factual account of a person named Mushtaq who joins the militant insurgency against Indian rule in Kashmir. Ultimately, however, he is disenchanted with the conduct of the “rebels.” During narration (and illustration), the novel sheds light on certain facets of the situation in Kashmir that are mostly missing in the mainstream media. The novelist unfolds many aspects of the strife in Kashmir, adopting an insider's point of view. The story takes its shape from the conversation between two prisoners grown up in Kashmir and were manipulated by the partisan powers for selfish motives. The article intends to shed light on the strengths and weaknesses of a graphic novel as a form using Kashmir Pending as a specimen. Top Keywords Graphic novel, PoK (Pakistan occupied Kashmir), LoC (Line of Control), DC (Detective Comics), ACK (Amar Chitra Katha), BSF (Border Security Force). Top |