This is a detailed and deep review of the closing issue ‘Sarpkaal’ of Raj Comics’ much talked about and historical ‘Serpesser’ series. This comic, published by Manoj Gupta and written by the great storyteller and artist Anupam Sinha, is not just a story, but a memorable saga of the two biggest superheroes of the Indian comics world—the great union of Nagraj and Tausi—and the end of the long struggle between them.
The 2021–22 period in the history of Indian comics will be considered nothing short of a renaissance, when Raj Comics started big and daring series like ‘Sarpsatra’ to regain its lost identity and dignity. The biggest attraction of this entire series was that for the first time Raj Comics’ Samrat Nagraj and Tulsi Comics’ Mahabali Tausi were seen together in the same story. The four parts of the series—Snake War, Snake Yagya, Snake Duel, and Snake Age—work well to solve the web of mysteries, illusions, and misunderstandings that Sarpsatra creates, and finally bring everything to a concrete, logical, and emotional end.
This issue is not just a comic, but the result of the emotions of millions of readers who have been dreaming of seeing these two legendary heroes face to face and together for years. The wisdom and balance with which Anupam Sinha ji has combined two different comics universes on the same ground is truly praiseworthy and seems no less than a miracle.
Detailed analysis of the plot
The story of ‘Sarpkaal’ begins right where ‘Sarpdwand’ left us on a powerful and shocking cliffhanger. Nagraj is broken by the effects of the netherworld poison and his existence is fragmented as ‘Nag’. On the other hand, Tausi is wandering in search of his son Tani, and the doubt and confusion that has arisen in his mind regarding his wife Apsara (Shri) further fans the fire of terrible anger within him.
The real center of this whole story is a mysterious and dangerous character named ‘Tantrik’, who sits behind the scenes and lays out the entire chessboard. He is not only controlling sharp-minded and cruel characters like Kalachakra and Miss Killer, but has also made great warriors like Nagraj and Tausi enemies of each other. ‘Sarpkaal’ gradually reveals all the secrets, and readers understand that the ‘transition’ going on within Nagraj’s body and the weakening of Tausi’s powers were actually part of the same big and well-planned conspiracy.
Since this is the last issue of the series, not only tremendous combat is shown here, but important issues like ‘memory loop’, i.e. memory loss, and ‘identity crisis’ are also resolved. The tension that has been going on for the last four issues regarding the real identity of Apsara (Shri) and her relationship with Tausi ends here at an emotional and effective juncture.
Characterization and development
Nagraj: Symbol of sacrifice and intelligence
In this issue, Nagraj is in a condition where his body has weakened, but his mind and heart are still acting like a true ‘world protector’. Giving shelter to Tausi’s son Tani within his own body and making Tausi realize the truth even when he himself is in danger clearly shows the height and greatness of Nagraj’s character. Anupam Sinha ji has beautifully presented the calm, restrained, and intelligent nature of Nagraj in contrast to Tausi’s angry and aggressive nature.
Tausi: From anger to self-realization
Tausi has perhaps emerged as the most complex and emotional character in the entire Sarpasatra series. His love is his biggest strength and also his biggest weakness. In ‘Sarpkaal’, the form of Tausi that comes out is destructive on one side, and also full of regret and self-guilt on the other. When he realizes his mistake and the truth, his changed appearance and bravery become truly worth seeing.
Tiny (Tani)
Tausi’s son Tani proves to be a hidden but extremely important ‘trump card’ of this entire series. His presence within the body of Nagraj, his courage, and his passion to stand against ‘Tantrik’ establish him as a big and important hero of the future.
Villains (The Villains)
The trio of Tantrik, Kalachakra, and Miss Killer have been presented in a very dangerous and effective manner. Especially the character of ‘Tantrik’, who dares to challenge even the gods in the pride of his powers, takes this story to a different mythological height and gives ‘Sarpkaal’ the look of a big epic, not just a superhero comic.
Art and portraiture
It is often said about Anupam Sinha that every line of his pencil tells the whole story by itself, and ‘Sarpkaal’ proves this completely. This comic can be considered one of the most mature and balanced works of his artistic career. His experience, confidence, and grip on the story are clearly visible on every page.
The action sequences featured in the opening pages of the comic give the feel of a big Hollywood blockbuster movie. The fragmented form of Nagraj and the volcano-like surging powers of Tausi come truly alive on the pages. Weight is felt in every blow, every jump, and every confrontation, which keeps the reader engaged with the story.
The battlefield of Cobra Valley (Kobra Ghati) is depicted with immense detail and imagination. The high and low rocks, flowing lava, and the warriors fighting between them create such an atmosphere that the reader feels himself standing on the same battlefield. This whole part is filled with adventure and takes the story to a different level.
Anupam Sinha does wonders even in emotional scenes. The silent dialogues between Tausi and Apsara say a lot without many words. The peace and seriousness on Nagraj’s face clearly show his sacrifice and wisdom. The combination of colors, which is handled by Bhakta Ranjan and Praveen, does complete justice to the mood of the story. Where there is war and anger, there are fierce reds and yellows, and where there is mystery, fear, or contemplation, the use of blue and purple colors gives more depth to the story.
Dialogue and Screenplay
‘Sarpkaal’‘s dialogues have the power and weight that a big and memorable grand finale should have. Tausi’s dialogue—“Nymphs meet in heaven! That’s where you have to go!”—and in response to that, Visarpi or Nagraj’s arguments, advance the story on both an emotional and logical level. These dialogues are not just meant to be heard or read, but also reflect the state of mind of the characters.
The biggest strength of Anupam Sinha’s script is that the story never seems burdensome. It neither slows down nor moves so fast that it leaves the reader behind. Every scene has been given the right time and the right place, which keeps the story flowing smoothly.
Especially the mantras and verses spoken during the ‘Sarpasatra Yagya’ create a deep Vedic impact in the story. This is what gives Indian comics a distinct identity. The balance shown here between scientific thinking—such as nanochips and viral infections—and spiritual elements—like mantra power and magic—is rarely seen and makes the story even more special.
‘Sarpkaal’’s highlights
The biggest attraction of this issue is the revelation of all the secrets that were roaming in the minds of readers for the last four parts. Who Apsara really is, how Tani reached Nagraj’s body, and what the real purpose of Tantra is—all these questions are answered here in a very clear and logical manner, so that the story does not feel incomplete or complicated.
Nagraj and Tausi finally coming together and fighting side by side is a pure ‘fan moment’ for readers. This scene becomes one of the most successful crossover moments in Indian comics history and shows how memorable the outcome can be when two great heroes unite.
The end of the Sarpasatra Yagya offering shown here is not just a religious activity. It comes across as a symbol of the victory of good over evil, and of sacrificing selfishness for a greater purpose, which gives emotional depth to the story.
Manoj Gupta ji’s editorial at the end of the comic and glimpses of upcoming highlights like ‘Shilbhang’ maintain enthusiasm and curiosity among readers and give hope for the future.
Technical side and quality of publication
Raj Comics, under Manoj Gupta, has clearly worked hard on the packaging and print quality of this special issue. High-quality paper makes the colors and artwork even more prominent, giving the reader a premium experience. Despite being such a long and complex series, Manoj Gupta’s editing is praiseworthy, as the continuity of the story does not feel broken anywhere.
Yes, the price of Rs 349 may seem a bit high to some readers, but when looking at the excellent 68-page printing, the fine artwork, and the importance of this historical series, the price feels completely justified.
Review: Why is this series a masterpiece?
The ‘Sarpasatra’ series has proved that Indian superhero stories still have the strength and charm to keep readers engaged for a long time. ‘Sarpkaal’ provides a closure that gives a feeling of satisfaction to most readers. The story also teaches us that great powers alone are not enough unless they are accompanied by prudence, understanding, and justice.
This story is not limited to Nagraj or Tausi alone, but also includes all the supporting characters who shaped this Mahagatha. Vedacharya, Nagbaba, Visarpi, and even the villain Kalachakra bring life to the story through their respective roles.
Some shortcomings
Although it is a fantastic and memorable comic, some readers may feel that things were resolved a little too early in the end. If the conclusion of a powerful villain like Tantrik had been shown in a little more detail, the impact could have been even deeper. Additionally, since the series is quite long, readers who followed it in installments may feel the need to re-read earlier issues to refresh their memory. However, these minor shortcomings do not diminish the brilliance of this great story.
Conclusion and final decision
‘Sarpkaal’ gives a strong signal of the return of Indian fiction to a new Golden Age. The duo of Anupam Sinha and Manoj Gupta has successfully delivered the experience that readers had been waiting for for years. The series brings back old fans and also connects a new generation to the exciting world of Nagraj and Tausi.
If you are fond of comics and have not yet read the ‘Sarpasatra’ series, then believe me, you are missing a large and important part of Indian fantasy and superhero literature. With ‘Sarpkaal’, the series ends on a high note that makes the future of Raj Comics look even brighter.
My rating: 4.9/5
