‘Abhimanyu’ Goyal has been one of the most popular and fearless characters in comic publishing. The “Bomb Blast” story is not just an action-adventure comic, but also brings out the social and political problems of that period, such as extremism and terrorism, through a fictional narrative. This comic not only entertains readers but also makes them think about the conditions the country was going through at that time.
Detailed description of the story
The story starts in the famous Chandni Chowk area of the country’s capital, Delhi. In this market, always full of hustle and bustle, suddenly there is a huge explosion, due to which the entire building turns into debris. People are still trying to recover from the shock when a series of blasts continues further. During a birthday party going on in a luxurious hotel, a box sent in the name of a ‘gift’ explodes, killing many innocent people.
It soon turns out that the Cobra International Commando Group is behind all these blasts. The hideout of this dangerous organization is in a place named ‘Shangri-L’, nestled in snow-covered hills. The leader of this group is Michael, alias Cobra Chief, who is a very cruel and power-hungry person. Its purpose is to spread so much fear in India that the government is forced to bow down before it.
Cobra Chief adopts the creepy technology of ‘human bombs’ to spread terror. In this, such people are used who blow themselves up by tying a bomb to their body or by having a bomb fitted inside their body. Things become more dire when a human bomb kills Acharya Jagadeshwar, a great religious guru. The police and security agencies become completely disturbed because these attackers, mixing with crowds of common people, suddenly carry out blasts.
It is from here that our superhero Abhimanyu enters the story. Abhimanyu’s real name is Krishna, who is a famous cartoonist by profession. But whenever any big threat comes to the country, the same Krishna comes forward in the form of Abhimanyu. With his tremendous strength, speed, and divine weapons (spear and arrow), he becomes Kaal for criminals.
Abhimanyu catches a human bomb in time before it can enter the secretariat and intelligently separates the bomb from the body. After interrogating the captured terrorist, he comes to know about the main base of the Cobra Group. Without any help, Abhimanyu sets out alone towards the snowy hills of Shangri-La. There, he learns that Cobra Chief has adopted an even more dangerous method—by operating on people’s stomachs and fitting bombs inside their bodies.
Ultimately, after a fierce and deadly clash, Abhimanyu foils all the conspiracies of Cobra Chief. He not only eliminates the Cobra Commando Group but also liberates thousands of young men who were forcibly imprisoned to make ‘human bombs’.
Character analysis
Abhimanyu (Superhero):
Abhimanyu’s character is a symbol of strength and justice. His costume is quite attractive—a sky-blue suit, red cape, and a special shield-like mark on his chest. He not only trusts his strength, but his wisdom also makes him special. His secret identity—a common cartoonist, Krishna—brings him closer to ordinary people.
Cobra Chief (Villain):
Michael, the villain of this comic, is a typical power-hungry criminal. His thinking and plans are at an international level. He lures poor and helpless youth with money and turns them into ‘human bombs’, which clearly shows his extremely cheap and inhuman nature.
Inspector Magar (Police):
Inspector Magar represents both the helplessness and honesty of the police system. He knows that every battle cannot be won by law alone. Therefore, he respects Abhimanyu and believes that in some situations, a superhero is necessary.
Theme and social messages
“Bomb Blast” is not just an action-filled comic, but also contains many deep social messages. The story clearly reveals the terrible and inhuman face of terrorism by showing blasts and the deaths of innocent people in public places. This comic also shows that terrorism is not spread only through guns and bombs, but that there are bitter social realities behind it.
The story also highlights how poor and helpless youth are pushed onto the wrong path by taking advantage of poverty and unemployment. They are drawn into terror through money and false dreams. Amidst all these dark circumstances, Abhimanyu’s resolution—
“Whenever terror has raised its head in the world… Abhimanyu has come”—
creates a strong feeling of patriotism, security, and hope in the minds of readers.
Illustration and dialogue
G.K. Shrestha’s artwork is quite powerful and impressive for its time. The open use of primary colors makes the comic extremely bright, especially attracting children and teenage readers. Sound effects like ‘dhadam’, ‘burroom’, and ‘khatak’ used during blast scenes bring the action vividly to life.
The scenes of Abhimanyu flying, fighting, and attacking enemies are created with great energy. The dialogues are not very heavy, but direct and effective. A ‘human bomb’ on one side says—
“There will be neither bamboo nor flute anymore”
which shows his fanatical thinking and hatred, while on the other hand, Abhimanyu’s dialogues are filled with justice, courage, and humanity.
Artistic shortcomings and positive sides
Positive sides:
The pace of the story is fast, due to which it never feels boring. From beginning to end, the reader remains connected to the narrative. Presenting a serious topic like terrorism in an understandable way for children and common readers is a big achievement. Along with this, Abhimanyu’s superhero persona is shown in a very impressive and inspiring manner.
Deficiencies:
Some scenes show body parts flying after ‘human bombs’ explode, which can be uncomfortable for very young children. Moreover, the end of such a large and dangerous terrorist organization feels a bit quick and easy. Abhimanyu enters the headquarters and defeats everyone quite easily, whereas the climax could have been made more challenging and thrilling.
Conclusion
Goyal Comics’ “Bomb Blast” is a powerful and memorable comic of its time. It not only delivers thrill and action but also clearly highlights society’s fear and concern regarding terrorism. Abhimanyu is a hero who represents a beautiful combination of modern strength and ancient bravery.
In today’s era, when we see superheroes from Hollywood and Marvel, desi heroes like Abhimanyu remind us of our childhood and our cultural roots. G.K. Shrestha’s story feels equally relevant even today, as the threat of terrorism has still not completely ended.
If you are fond of old comics and want to relive the world of Indian superheroes, you must read “Bomb Blast.” This story teaches us that no matter how deep the darkness is, an Abhimanyu will always arrive carrying the torch of justice and hope.
