Comic Timing

The 230 pages of the comic depict Yamamatsu’s attempts to translate Manga,the Japanese brand of comic books and graphic novels,into Hindi and promote them in the Indian market. But while that was the premise of his visit,the real story lies in his sharp observations of the city’s culture,etiquette and getting by without speaking English or Hindi. This isn’t another run-of-the-mill account of dirt,grime and diarrhoea but a survivor’s guide to a country that can be very challenging to a foreigner.

Unlike the photo on the book’s cover that depicts him screaming out in what could be either anger,frustration or both,Yamamatsu is cheerful,soft-spoken and calm in person. His mission when he came to India in 2004 was to promote the Japanese art form and perhaps write a book about his experiences. “When you grow old,you want to retire,but I didn’t want to sit idle. So I decided to introduce Manga to India,” says the author.

Published by Blaft and Westland,Stupid Guy Goes to India is read from right to left to maintain the authenticity of Manga. But while graphic novels are gaining popularity in India,the

genre still has a long way to go before it gets the same response as in Europe and the US. “Comic books in India are too expensive,” said Yamamatsu whose book is priced at Rs 395. “They need to be more affordable to ensure sales.”