‘Qayamat’ (Kayamat) This comic is not just a story, but a proof of the strong rapport between ‘Mahanagar ke Rakshak’ Nagraj and ‘Delhi ke Rakshak’ Parmanu, which started after the story ‘Soorma’. ‘Doom’ was a much-anticipated crossover, which made readers witness the fierce war that was taking place between magic and science. This review will thoroughly analyze every aspect—plot, character illustration, art, and social message—of this 90-page Mahagatha.
Story detail and analysis:
The story begins with a mysterious atmosphere. Daewoo and Reema are on a romantic boat ride on the beach of the metropolis, where Daewoo is about to propose to Reema. But then a strange flying saucer falls from the sky, signaling an approaching storm. This scene immediately arouses curiosity among the readers.
Nagraj, on the other hand, is on a train journey with Bharti and school children in his usual form (Raj). Here, the human side of Nagraj is seen, where he is playing Antakshari and joking with the children. But soon, his ‘serpent-sight’ makes him realize the danger that is coming. A magic engine, with no driver, is heading towards their train. This is where the terrible machine monster called ‘Lokomoto’ (Locomoto) appears.
The struggle of Lokomoto and Nagraj:
Nagraj’s battle with Lokomoto is one of the earliest adventures in this comic. Lokomoto was not an ordinary machine; she was walking by magic and wielding the immense power of steam. Nagraj shows his cleverness here. When he discovers that just strength isn’t working, he uses the powers of his ‘cold-nag’ (Ice snakes). Converting steam into water and then forcing the engine to burst like a ‘pressure cooker’ reflects the scientific approach of the author. This part reminds us that Nagraj is not just a warrior, but also a cunning strategist.
Nuclear and Delhi environment:
The second part of the story reaches Parmanu i.e., Vinay in Delhi. Here, Nuclear encounters bank robbers, who try to escape through the sewer system. His nuclear way of catching them—taking them out by a heavy shower of water in the sewer—shows how intelligently he can use the geography and infrastructure of his city.
There is also an emotional aspect in the life of the atom. At the end of ‘Soorma’, Professor Verma went into a coma. Vinay, Dr., talks to Dastur about his operation. Here also appears the compulsion of the superhero’s life—the hero who saves the world can only pray for the person closest to him.
Wizard Shakura and the ‘Mask’ plot:
The main villain of this comic is ‘Jaggar Shakura’ (Jaadoogar Shakura), an old enemy of Nagraj. He enters the painting competition organized in Delhi by taking the disguised form of ‘Mask’. Shakura’s idea is very unique and scary—he gives children ‘magic crayons’ (Magic Crayons). Whatever the kids draw really comes to life.
A small-looking character ‘Seikdi’ (Seekadi), resembling an incomplete drawing of a child, becomes a headache for both Nagraj and Nuclear. The strength of the Seik is that it does not hurt and can only be eliminated by magic. Here, Nagraj shows his intelligence and starts erasing these magical figures using ‘white crayons’ (which act like erasers).
Deep analysis of characters:
Nagraj: In this story, Nagraj emerges as a guardian. His concern for children and his communication with Bharti makes him very ‘relatable’. Bharti’s character is also not just a sidekick but is shown as a strong woman who inspires Nagraj in difficult times.
Nuclear: Represents nuclear science and technology. He looks at every problem from a scientific point of view. However, he looks a little uncomfortable in the face of Shakura’s magic, which makes the clash of magic and science more interesting in the story.
Pro-Bot (Pro-Bot): This robot, created by Professor Verma, is a ‘game changer’ in the story. He is not just a machine, but a reflection of the professor’s mind. Pro-Bot’s helping the atom and catching Shakura’s psychic waves further strengthens the climax of the story.
Magician Shakura: Shakura is a villain who is driven by hatred and revenge. His aim is not only to conquer the world, but also to humiliate Nagraj. This human flaw ultimately leads to his defeat.
Drawing and art
Anupam Sinha’s artwork brings this comic to life. The visual effects he created in the 90s are still awe-inspiring to see in the digital age. Lokomoto’s design is a unique blend of mechanical and magical elements, while Nagraj and Atom attacking together in the air and battling the warriors riding the ‘flying disc’ gives a spectacular cinematic experience. Additionally, the clear differences in the brightness of magical crayons and the colors of the atomic ‘atomic blast’ make the reader’s visual experience vivid and effective.
Magic vs. Science: Main Themes
The biggest highlight of ‘Doomsday’ is the dichotomy of ‘magic versus science’ (Magic vs Science). Shakura represents magic, where there is no place for logic—anything is possible. At the same time, Atom and Pro-Bots represent science, which wants to analyze everything. Nagraj is the link between these two, as he possesses physical strength as well as natural and mythological powers.
The story conveys the message that no matter how advanced science is, powers sometimes emerge whose solution comes not just from logic, but from imagination and intelligence.
Climax and conclusion
The story ends in a magical tower built on the buildings of Delhi. Shakura had tried to capture Professor Varma’s brain so that he could combine his scientific inventions with magic. But his plan fails in the face of the teamwork of Parmanu and Nagraj.
In the climax, when Nagraj pierces Shakura’s magical mantle and mentally binds Shakura through the memories of the Pro-Bot Professor, it is a very satisfying scene. Seeing Shakura fall into his own trap gives readers a sense of justice. In the end, Shakura is sent back to his planet and Professor Varma’s condition begins to improve.
Critical Commentary
‘Qayamat’ is one of the Raj Comics stories that are part of a long continuity. To read it, it is important to have knowledge of ‘Soorma’, which makes it part of a ‘comic book universe’. Writer ‘Jolly Sinha’ has kept the script very neat.
Positive side:
The story gives the two legendary heroes equal weight, making the plot balanced and exciting. A unique and creative idea like the ‘magical crayon’ adds novelty to the story, and the fast-paced plot keeps readers hooked to the end. The perfect balance of emotions and action is seen throughout the comic, making it complete and memorable.
Downside:
Some parts of the story may seem a bit complicated if the reader has not read the previous episode ‘Soorma’.
Shakura’s defeat seems a bit quick; a powerful wizard like him should have been given a harder fight.
Conclusions and ratings:
‘Qayamat’ is a classic story in Indian comics history. It reminds us of a period when comics were not just entertainment but a flight of imagination. The story teaches that no matter how elusive the enemy is, he can be defeated with courage and unity. The brotherhood of Nagraj and Parmanu is a major achievement of Indian superhero stories.
If you want to read a story that combines childhood innocence (painting competition) and cosmic danger (Shakura), then ‘Doomsday’ is for you. It is a ‘must-read’ for Raj Comics fans.
Rating: 4.8/5
