A couple of weeks back, cartoonist and iconic chronicler RK Laxman bid goodbye to millions of fans the world over. Despite his works covering issues panning India’s socio-political, cultural and countless other spheres, Mumbai will miss him in particular. With his numerous references to the city, serving out slices of our life, he was able to communicate its triumphs, spirit and woes with ease that endeared him to his followers. His creation, the Common Man, could have easily been residing in a 1BHK flat in suburban Mumbai, as he encountered the dynamic, ever-changing Indian landscape for decades.

Another legendary illustrator who was able to bring Mumbai alive through his work was Mario Miranda. On a recent visit to a store in Bandra that sells his creations on official merchandise, it was a delight to relive his tributes to the city be it through characters like Miss Fonseca, Moonswamy and their ilk, or how ink-work that could deftly translate the city’s chaos and constant churn in vibrant hues.