From Reform Screams

Gaganendranath Tagore

Gaganendranath Tagore’s caricatures serve as a landmark in the history of Indian art. Armed with eclectic sensibilities, razor sharp wit, and a flair for self-critique and reflection, Gaganendranath takes to the medium with extraordinary passion and dexterity. Between 1915 and 1921 he published three folios of caricatures, Realm of the Absurd (Adbhut Lok), Virup Vajra, and Reform Screams (Nabo Hullod). Copies of these folios have become exceedingly rare. From exaggerated facial features to exaggerated situations, Gaganendranath cleverly highlights the absurdities and contradictions present in society, inviting viewers to question the status quo and consider the possibilities of reform.

Reform Screams was published by Thacker, Spink & Co. in 1921 with the subtitle ‘a Pictorial Review at the close of the year 1921’ on the cover page. Zoom into one of the images from its pages to get a unique glimpse into the era’s socio-political conditions through the lens of Gaganendranath’s humour.

Written By Shreeja Sen