Bengaluru: The city is set to honour the centenary of legendary cartoonist Mario Miranda with a special exhibition celebrating his immortal artistic legacy and contribution to Indian visual storytelling. The tribute is being organised by the Indian Institute of Cartoonists (IIC) and will bring together an extensive collection of his most iconic works.
The exhibition will be held at the Indian Cartoon Gallery on MG Road from May 2 to May 23, 2026, and will remain open to the public with free entry, allowing art lovers, students, and visitors to experience Miranda’s celebrated body of work up close.
A major highlight of the showcase will be the display of over 110 original artworks by Mario Miranda, featuring his signature style of detailed, lively cityscapes filled with humour and everyday human interactions. His widely recognised characters such as Miss Nimbupani and Miss Fonseca are expected to be among the key attractions. Miranda’s work, known for capturing the essence of urban life with wit and precision, has remained popular across generations.
Throughout his illustrious career, Miranda became one of India’s most beloved cartoonists, with his illustrations regularly appearing in leading publications including The Illustrated Weekly of India. His distinctive pen-and-ink style, marked by crowded compositions and subtle satire, helped define a unique visual language in Indian cartooning.
The centenary exhibition will also feature rare sketches, political cartoons, and archival photographs, offering visitors a deeper understanding of his artistic journey. A special section will highlight his collaboration with writer Dom Moraes in the book The Open Eyes: A Journey through Karnataka, which showcases Miranda’s keen observation of cultural and regional life.
Organisers have stated that the exhibition will include works spanning several decades, reflecting the evolution of Miranda’s style and storytelling approach. Visitors will also be able to view illustrations that depict Karnataka’s landscapes, heritage sites, and everyday scenes, all rendered in his characteristic humorous and detailed manner.
Mario Miranda, who gained international acclaim during his lifetime, is remembered not only for his artistic brilliance but also for his humble personality and encouragement of young artists. His cartoons, often filled with bustling characters and layered humour, continue to be celebrated for their timeless appeal and social relevance.
The centenary celebration is expected to draw artists, students, historians, and admirers from across the country, all coming together to revisit and celebrate his legacy. The Indian Institute of Cartoonists has emphasised that the event is aimed at keeping Miranda’s contribution alive and introducing his work to younger generations.
By hosting this tribute in Bengaluru, the organisers aim to reinforce Mario Miranda’s enduring influence on Indian art and visual culture, ensuring that his unique storytelling through illustration continues to inspire future generations.
