Calendar

Indian popular religious prints have been published for nearly a century, first by German presses, later by Indian ones. The prints may take the form of calendars, posters, or simply images. The style of the representations is European. In the beginning they were Hindu images, but are now acquiring elements both of folk art and a romantic secularism. It is a living art currently influenced by the movie industry, politics, and non-Hindu religions. The images are a vehicle for advertising and are also used for religious purposes.

political calendar art

White hat, dark eyeglasses identify male figure as M. G. Ramachandran, the actor and politician who formed his own political party in 1971 which came to power in Tamil Nadu in 1977. M. G. R. Is portrayed shaking hands with popular Disney cartoon character Mickey Mouse. Central scene depicts M. G. R. against New York City backdrop, indicated by Statue of Liberty. In main image, 'v' shape formed by fingers of M. G. R.'s right hand has long been recognized as a symbol for victory. In the 1960's, it also became a popular symbol signifying 'peace'.

Rectangular calendar print depicting three scenes superimposed upon a main image. Primary image consists of a man, M. G. Ramachandran, wearing dark eyeglasses and white hats pictured in three different positions. Figure on right and left are speaking into microphones and holding dark eyeglasses in hands. Central figure: arm on left is raised at elbow; fingers form v-shape. Blue and red curtains form background. In upper left corner inset, man with dark eyeglasses and white hat is shaking hands with life-size mouse figure. In central inset, a bust of man with pencil-thin moustache is superimposed on city background. In foreground of right inset two men are transferring parcel from one to other; in background, three figures are standing at entrance to airplane. One of figures is waving. Beneath image is written in Tamil: (translated) 'Cinema, Song Books, Stories, Calendar Business/150, Nadar Road, Madurai-1, We have merchandise at a good price'. In lower right corner underneath image, 'Majestic Offset Printers, P. B. No. 89, Sivakasi' is printed. The artist's signature 'V. S. Kalyan' is located lower left portion of image.