Amar Chitra Katha says 'Vanakkam' to Tamil readers

Lord Krishna, Tenali Raman, Kartikeya, Raja Chola and other popular mythological and historical figures are now speaking Tamil, courtesy Amar Chitra Katha.

The all-time favourites of children and adults alike, Amar Chitra Katha (ACK) comics have now entered the Tamil Nadu market -- in Tamil language, an official said here Friday.

"ACK has inspired generations of Indian through accurate depiction of Indian values, culture, valour of our national heroes, mythological characters and the great epics. Comics in regional language are a great way to reach out to wider audiences," said Manas Mohan, COO, ACK Media, explaining the foray into Tamil language.

Local language enable faster absorption by the younger generation, he said.

Besides, Mohan said Tamil is one of the longest surviving classical languages in the world and still going strong.

"The ACK comics, known for their authenticity, are now ready to win hearts of Tamil readers with genres like mythology, history and visionaries. These have become an integral part of everyone's formative childhood years, with a growing reader base among both children and parents," Mohan added.

The brainchild of late Anant Pai, the Amar Chitra Katha comics were launched in 1967 and have sold nearly a 100 million copies in 20 Indian languages.

To begin with 35 select single titles like Krishna and Narakasura, Raman of Tenali, Karttikeya and Raja Chola have hit the stands in Tamil and a special pack on 'Kadambha Kadhai Kadal' is coming soon.

"ACK comics have been translated into many national and international languages. The stories from our heritage are not just treasure houses of wisdom and knowledge but also convey the deepest thoughts through simple plots and characters," said ACK Editor Reena Puri.

By the new language addition, she said the attempt is to reach out to children who study in Tamil medium and other Tamil families living out of the state. "Our comics will also be ideal for familiarizing Tamilian children, who live away from their home state, with their mother tongue," Puri said.

Headquartered in Mumbai, ACK Media is a multi-level entertainment and education conglomerate famed for the Amar Chitra Katha, Tinkle, Karadi Tales and Brainwave among others, in print, online, games, television, films, videos and mobile platforms.