Abu Abraham

cartoonist

Abu Abraham, born Attupurathu Mathew Abraham in 1924 in Kerala, India, was a renowned political cartoonist celebrated for his sharp wit and insightful commentary on contemporary issues. He began his career as a reporter before transitioning to cartooning, where he gained prominence for his incisive cartoons during India's Emergency period from 1975 to 1977, which saw severe censorship and curtailment of civil liberties under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. His work often critiqued the media's complicity under censorship and the political climate of the time, showcasing his unique ability to blend humor with poignant social critique. After spending nearly 15 years in the UK, contributing to publications like The Observer and The Guardian, he returned to India, where he continued to influence the field of political satire until his death in 2002. His legacy endures through his iconic cartoons that remain relevant in discussions about press freedom and political accountability.