There was a time when there was a fierce competition going on between all the comics companies to move forward, and in the same period, Manoj Comics had also created its own distinct and strong identity. Among popular characters like ‘Ram-Rahim’, ‘Hawaldar Bahadur’ and ‘Mahabali Shera’, there was also a female superhero who made her place in everyone’s hearts — Kanga.
Kanga, a heroine who had the power to fly. Her large wings made her look like a dangerous and overwhelming warrior, not an angel or a fairy. “Hathkadi” is a special issue of the Kanga series, which was no less than a superhit film for the readers of that time. Today when we sit in the digital era and read this comic again, it does not just take us nostalgically, but also offers a great example of the fantastic style (storytelling) of writing and showing the story of the time.
A fabric of mystery and adventure
The beginning of the story is exactly like a suspense thriller. Theft is continuously happening in the city, but the police and administration are not getting anything. The thief leaves no clue, which surprises everyone. Meanwhile, theft takes place in a house, but not jewellery or money, but some strange things are missing from there. From here the first question that arises in the reader’s mind is — what does this thief want?
The story takes a turn when two dangerous criminals appear — ‘Fox Robber’ and ‘Brain Killer’. The Brain Killer, as the name suggests, is a very cunning and ruthless criminal. His real face is hidden behind a scary mask (or maybe his real face is just as scary!). Brain Killer plans a robbery that no one can imagine — plans to rob the “Swiss Bank” of Vijay Nagar.
And this is where Kanga enters. For the world of crime, as if like Yamraj, Kanga takes to the field. She discovers that the town is being run by an entire gang named the “Sandwich Killer”, who follow the Brain Killer’s instructions.
The most exciting part of the story is the planning and execution of the Swiss Bank robbery. Brain Killer finds a tremendous way — planning to get inside the bank using the bank’s giant clock tower! The whole scene sounds like 90’s Hollywood action movies. During the robbery, there is a tough and strong contest between Kanga and the criminals.
Along with this, another heart-touching move in the story — the relationship between Rahul and Kanga, a small child. Rahul considers Kanga as his sister and Kanga is also always ready for his safety and happiness. This aspect adds warmth of humanity and emotions to the story.
In the end, Kanga uses her wits, guts, and strength at the right time to dust off the Brain Killer and his entire gang. In the climax, Kanga and the Brain Killer have a fierce fight, and finally Kanga defeats him and hands him over to the law — that is, she really puts him in “handcuffs”.
Character analysis (Character Analysis)
Kanga (The Heroine): Kanga’s character is shown to be very powerful. She is not just a beautiful superheroine, but a brave and fearless warrior. Her black wings and red–golden dress give her a distinct and memorable identity. Kanga has the power to fly, can quickly perform acrobatics in the air, and pounces on enemies like an eagle pouncing on prey. Her physical strength is also more than that of ordinary humans. She is a true advocate of justice — strict for criminals, but extremely gentle for children and innocents. Her behavior with Rahul clearly shows the motherhood and sisterly love hidden within her.
Brain Killer (The Villain): Brain Killer is one of the most memorable villains in Manoj Comics. Her look is quite scary — her head is shown like an open mind, which makes her name fit perfectly. She does not depend on strength but on her mind and plans. Her planning is high-tech and very complex. She is arrogant and considers herself above the law and society.
Fox Robber: Fox Robber is the Brain Killer’s trusted partner. He’s smart, but not as ruthless as the Brain Killer. His job is to carry out the plans made by the Brain Killer and take over the team.
Police Inspector: Like it used to be in many comics of that era, here too the police inspector is in a supporting role. He trusts Kanga completely and helps her when needed, but in reality all the work and real action is handled by Kanga.
Rahul: Rahul is a character that readers instantly connect with. He is a big fan of Kanga. His innocence and belonging add sweetness and lightness to the story, due to which the story is not limited to just action but also takes an emotional form.
Art and portraiture
Artist Chandu has done a brilliant job in this comic. Printing technology was very limited in the 90’s, but despite this he made every scene feel like a movie moving before the eyes.
The spreading of Kanga’s wings as she flies and fights, and the body postures in the air, seem very natural and powerful. The action scenes on pages 29 and 42 are particularly striking.
Dark and bright colors are used very effectively in the comic — Kanga’s red dress, the villain’s strange greenish face, and the dark tones of the background combine to create a dramatic and exciting atmosphere.
The huge clock of the Swiss Bank and the machinery inside it (gear, wires and technical structure) are very finely made, which shows that the artist also paid close attention to the technical parts of the story.
Kanga’s anger, Brain Killer’s cunning and Rahul’s innocence — all three are shown very beautifully in facial expressions.
Key Aspects of the Story
Technical Gadgets and Science:
This comic was quite advanced for that time, referring to technologies such as “microchip”, “robotics”, “laser beam” and “magnetic locks”. The Brain Killer’s idea of entering the bank through a clock is a great blend of scientific and mechanical thinking.
Women Empowerment:
At a time when the role of girls and women in society was often shown to be limited, a character like Kanga gave a strong message — that women can also be powerful and self-reliant and have the ability to defeat the entire gang alone. Kanga doesn’t feel the need for a male superhero — she’s the hero of the story herself.
Suspense and Thriller:
The story begins in a calm manner but gradually picks up pace. The real identity of the Brain Killer and his master plan keep readers engaged till the last page.
Emotional Engagement:
The entry of Rahul and his father (who probably already knows Kanga) adds a family and emotional angle to the story. With this, the story is not limited to just fighting and chasing, but also has a heart-touching aspect.
Critical Analysis
Positive side (Pros):
Strong Heroine: Kanga’s character is extremely inspiring. She is not only strong but also mentally very strong and confident.
Unique Villain: Brain Killer’s design and his tricks make him a villain that the reader remembers for a long time.
Tight script: The pace remains throughout the story. There is something new on every page, which does not bore the reader.
Art: Chandu ji’s artwork is reminiscent of old days and still looks impressive.
Downside (Cons):
Lack of logic: In some places “filmy touch” feels more in the story — It feels a little strange to have a Swiss bank in an ordinary city in India. Also, Kanga arrives at just the right time each time, which sounds a little too cinematic.
Violence: Some scenes are quite violent, which may not be suitable for very young children.
Editing: At some places spelling mistakes and sentence structure seem a little weak — although this was quite common for comics of that time.
Conclusion
“Handcuffs” is a great offering from Manoj Comics. It’s not just a comic but a beautiful memory of 90’s Indian pop-culture. The period when kids would buy these comics with their pocket money and spend hours lost in their pages — this comic brings back the same scent of those days.
Kanga’s character teaches us that no matter how powerful or intelligent evil is, it ultimately loses to good, courage and right intentions. Whereas a villain like Brain Killer reminds us that the world of crime always ends in destruction.
If you are crazy about old Hindi comics, then this comic is no less than a treasure for you. And if you are a new reader, it beautifully introduces you to the golden era of Indian comics. “Handcuffs” is a perfect entertainment package — with action, drama, emotion and also a touch of science-fiction.
