This book analyses the emergence and growth of an extraordinary phenomenon in popular culture and children's literature - the Amar Chitra Katha (ACK). ACK makes publishing history at a historical conjuncture when many of the welfare commitments of the Nehruvian state come in for questioning. This study traces the genealogy of the contemporary ethical ideals of hard work, merit and citizenship to the turbulent political moments of the 1970s. Working with the cultural and historical contexts that shape ACK's narratives and visuals, it shows how, alongside the radical movements for social and economic justice, there emerges a more conservative individualist demand for a masculinisation of the inner self. The author argues that in this political moment, ACK serves as a vehicle for fashioning a nationalist, brahminised yet modern masculinity. Retelling stories of heroic men and women, it builds ideals and proposes codes of honourable conduct for middle class children as they grow up to become citizens of the nation - strong, indomitable, persevering, overcoming the barriers of caste or community through courage and sheer will power. Actively engaged in the making of an Indianness that is modern yet authentic, ACK uses historical/mythic material to formulate a contemporary praxis for its middle class readership. A unique and fascinating book that will be of interest to a wide audience of both academics and the informed lay reader.

It will be especially useful for those in the fields of cultural studies, gender and masculinities, political science, sociology, literature and history. Book jacket.