New & notable
From the world of Mario 

Mario is about to turn 24 and has returned to Goa after graduating in English Literature from St Xavier’s College in Bombay.

The Life of Mario 1950  Edited by Gerard da Cunha. Architecture Autonomous. `395.

He is rediscovering the charms of family life and the beauty of his picturesque village of Loutolim with its river and hill (Monte). His gang of friends has grown and so has their capacity to organise parties, picnics and adventures. They have discovered the attraction of women, but still prefer their stag parties. Bandu is the most interesting friend and the speechmaker of the group and an aspiring dancer. Bordalo (Paulito) has a great swagger and Nelson is the bard.

This diary is the center of his life, where he records all the goings on. His family of pets is growing and includes dogs, cats, pigs and ducks. Each one of them he christens with a meaningful name along with a surname explaining their linage. His favourite is Pantaleao, who follows and embarrasses him and climbs into his bed on cold nights. His family has a high turnover of cooks and bearers with Gabru the head cook, providing much joy and stability.

He draws in this diary all the interesting village characters and the important events that unfold in the village, including the church. The asst. Parish Priest attempts to look at his diary, but without success.

Mario is keenly developing his cartoonist skills with his low-key, gentle humour, and he begins by caricaturing himself with a large nose and a mildly bumbling personality. 1950 is a charming and captivating Graphic Diary of one of India’s most-loved artists, as well as a social commentary on the life of the period.

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