Animator Ram Mohan, known as the father of Indian animation, died at the age of 88 on Friday, PTI reported. He is known for creating animation sequences for several feature films and worked across the government and private sectors. He was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2014.
Mohan had started his career at the cartoon films unit at the government’s films division in 1956. In 1968, Ram Mohan left the films division and began to work with Prasad Productions as head of its animation division. In 1972, he established his own production company, Ram Mohan Biographics. The production company worked on the animated feature Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, which was released in 1992. It also created animated commercials.
Mohan created an animated song for BR Chopra’s Pati Patni Aur Woh, the title sequence for Satyajit Ray’s Shatranj Ke Khilari, and a sequence for Mrinal Sen’s Hindi film, Bhuvan Shome.
Mohan was the chairperson and chief creative officer at Graphiti Multimedia, a Mumbai-based animation company launched in 1995. He also launched the Graphiti School of Animation in 2006.
The Indian animation industry condoled Mohan’s death.
Mr. Ram Mohan, the Father of Indian Animation, envisioned Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, our mythological history, and made it known to the world.
— Whistling Woods International (@Whistling_Woods) October 11, 2019
His sad demise will forever leave a void in our hearts.
May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/hnEK2oHfDw
The animation industry of India today has lost its Godfather, Shri Ram Mohan sir. Thank you for all the amazing work over the years & for inspiring animators from around the world! Your work shall forever be remembered & cherished!#indiananimation#rip pic.twitter.com/M8Kzi6ULZ2
— Bimaar Insaan 🇮🇳 (@bimaarhoonna) October 11, 2019
RIP Ram Mohan sir! I had the privilege of learning a bit of animation from him. #RamMohan pic.twitter.com/EaIqfbqRJl
— Satish Acharya (@satishacharya) October 11, 2019
— UNICEF Bangladesh (@UNICEFBD) October 11, 2019We mourn the passing of #Meena’s creator and celebrated cartoonist Ram Mohan.
May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/KVSAoDr30D
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As an animation expert with a profound understanding of the field, I can attest to the monumental contributions of Ram Mohan, also known as the father of Indian animation. My expertise extends to both the technical and creative aspects of animation, allowing me to appreciate the profound impact of his work on the industry.
Ram Mohan's legacy in Indian animation is irrefutable, and the evidence lies in the extensive body of work he has produced throughout his illustrious career. His journey began in 1956 at the government's films division, where he contributed to the cartoon films unit. This early experience provided him with a foundational understanding of animation, a crucial element that set the stage for his later achievements.
In 1968, Ram Mohan transitioned to Prasad Productions, assuming the role of the head of its animation division. This move not only underscores his versatility but also showcases his ability to navigate different facets of the animation industry. His decision to establish his production company, Ram Mohan Biographics, in 1972 further solidified his commitment to advancing the field.
One of the most compelling pieces of evidence supporting Ram Mohan's expertise is the animated feature "Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama," released in 1992. This ambitious project, undertaken by his production company, reflects his dedication to bringing Indian mythology to life through animation. Additionally, his involvement in creating animated sequences for notable films such as "Pati Patni Aur Woh," "Shatranj Ke Khilari," and "Bhuvan Shome" showcases his diverse skill set and widespread impact.
Ram Mohan's influence extends beyond his creative work; he played a pivotal role in shaping the Indian animation industry. His leadership as the chairperson and chief creative officer at Graphiti Multimedia, launched in 1995, is a testament to his commitment to fostering growth and innovation in the field.
The establishment of the Graphiti School of Animation in 2006 further exemplifies Ram Mohan's dedication to nurturing the next generation of animators. This evidence highlights his multifaceted impact, not only as a creator but also as an educator and industry leader.
The outpouring of condolences from the Indian animation community following his death in 2019 further underscores his revered status as the godfather of Indian animation. Tributes from organizations like Whistling Woods International and individuals who had the privilege of learning from him, such as Satish Acharya, speak to the profound influence he had on the animation landscape in India.
In conclusion, Ram Mohan's extensive body of work, his leadership in animation companies, and the heartfelt tributes from the industry provide compelling evidence of his unparalleled expertise and lasting legacy in Indian animation. His contributions have not only shaped the history of Indian animation but continue to inspire animators worldwide.
