Pune University To Open Cartoon Studies Department Honouring Veteran Cartoonist SD Phadnis, Announces Ashish Shelar
Pune University To Open Cartoon Studies Department Honouring Veteran Cartoonist SD Phadnis, Announces Ashish Shelar
Pune, September 29, 2025 – Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) is set to launch a dedicated Cartoon Studies Department named after legendary cartoonist Shivram Dattatreya Phadnis (SD Phadnis). The announcement was made by Maharashtra’s Minister of Cultural Affairs, Ashish Shelar, during his visit to Pune on Sunday.
The decision coincides with the centenary year of SD Phadnis, who turned 100 on July 29. Recognised for his unique, wordless and vibrant drawings, Phadnis is regarded as one of India’s most influential cartoonists.
Shelar said the new centre would serve as a hub for aspiring artists nationwide. “The legacy of SD Phadnis is inspiring for generations. Our goal is to make Pune a destination where cartoonists can learn caricature, cartooning, and political satire. Students from across the world should come here to study, research, and exchange ideas,” he added.
The proposal was initiated after local BJP leaders and SPPU faculty urged Shelar to create a study centre in Phadnis’s name. Shelar then discussed the plan with Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, who supported the move.
During his Pune visit, Shelar also met SD Phadnis at his residence and presented him with a book of rare letters written by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Responding to the development, Phadnis expressed joy, calling it a “golden moment” in his artistic journey. “My drawings transcend language, and I am happy that this centre will encourage future cartoonists. The cartoon industry has a bright future,” he said.
