In 2014, I (accidentally) started what is now an almost 10-year-long project―Sanitary Panels―a web comic that comments on society, culture and politics, and aims to challenge myths and taboos around menstruation, mental health, and queer rights.
With 800 comics and counting, I hope to observe and reflect the mood of the nation’s youth through a feminist lens. I strive to use my comics to get to the heart of an issue, with wit and empathy. As an extremely online person, it is a privilege to be able to do what I love with the support of tens of thousands of people on social media.
We are increasingly seeing mainstream journalists skirt around the most consequential issues of our time because of media consolidation and corporate takeover. This is why the work of political artists is vital―they hold a mirror to power, often with humour and an astute understanding of the world around them.
The Lok Sabha elections earlier this year showed that there is power in the unity of people. There is hope. Hope in the millions of voters who rejected hate and division, and instead voted for issues that affect them―wealth inequality, hunger, unemployment, climate, health, education, and a better future. The message for politicians is loud and clear: You fail the people, they will stand together to show you the door.
Rachita Taneja is a political cartoonist based in Bengaluru. Recently, she was presented with the biennial Kofi Annan Courage in Cartooning award, alongside Hong Kong’s Zunzi | INSTAGRAM HANDLE: @SANITARYPANELS