In the 80s and 90s, Manoj Comics created a distinct and strong identity for itself. During that period, Manoj Comics characters like Ram-Rahim, Tiranga, and Toofan were very popular among readers. Today, we are going to review in detail one such classic comic, ‘Storm and Scorpion Dunk’, from Manoj Comics. The comic is not just a superhero’s origin story, but it also shows a brilliant juxtaposition of society, criminal attitudes, and the science-fiction (Sci-Fi) thinking of that time.
The author of this comic is Nazam Khan, and the responsibility of its art direction was handled by the great artist Pratap Mullick. Pratap Mullick’s name is taken with great respect in the Indian comics world. His drawing style and visual presentation make this comic truly come alive.
The journey from vengeance to justice
The story starts in Connaught Place, a famous area in the country’s capital, Delhi. Suddenly, there is a huge bomb blast in a cinema hall. Shortly after, the story introduces us to its protagonist, Ajay, and his father, who are riding a motorcycle. Ajay’s father is a fearless journalist and photographer. He tells Ajay that he had gone to the same cinema hall to write a review report of the film. There, he saw some terrorists placing bombs in the toilet and secretly took pictures of them.
When the terrorists find out that their photographs have been taken, they start chasing Ajay’s father. At that moment, they escape by boarding a bus, but later the terrorists ambush them and attack. In this attack, Ajay’s father is brutally murdered, and Ajay himself gets seriously injured. The terrorists snatch away the camera and film reel from them, which was the biggest evidence against them.
From here, the story takes a major turn. After regaining consciousness in the hospital, Ajay decides to avenge his father’s death. He meets the Commissioner of the Delhi Police and tells him the entire truth. Ajay wants to join the police and fight against terrorism, but due to his injuries, he is declared physically unfit and refused.
Seeing Ajay’s strong will, the Commissioner introduces him to Professor Bhaskar. Professor Bhaskar is working on a highly secret government project. They are looking for a young man who can risk his life for a dangerous scientific experiment. Ajay agrees to this without hesitation.
Transformation and birth of powers:
Ajay has to go through many difficult tests in Professor Bhaskar’s laboratory. He is given strong electric shocks, undergoes extreme cold experiments, is injected with special chemicals, and finally, lethal gamma rays are used on him. Ajay tolerates all these dangerous tests, and his body gains tremendous strength.
Professor Bhaskar gives him a special bulletproof suit, which is filled with modern gadgets. This suit is fitted with poison pins and has buttons that can release Beta-X rays. Along with this, Ajay is given a high-tech motorcycle that can run at 500 km per hour, fly in the air, and fire missiles if needed.
This is where Ajay gets his new name — ‘Storm’. Now, he becomes a frightening name for criminals.
Main clash: Storm vs Scorpion Dunk
In his very first action, Storm attacks a large terrorist base. There, he learns about the main villain, ‘Great Scorpion’, and his most dangerous companion, ‘Scorpion Dunk’. Scorpion Dunk is an extremely horrifying and monster-like creature, with thousands of poisonous scorpions crawling all over his body. He can torture and kill anyone using the poison from his nails and scorpion sting.
There is a fierce fight between Storm and Scorpion Dunk in the secret terrorist fort built in the hills of the Mehrauli area of Delhi. Storm uses his wit and the flamethrower in his costume to eliminate the poisonous scorpions on Scorpion Dunk’s body and finally defeats him. At the end of the story, the main kingpin tries to escape by helicopter, but Storm kills him mid-air using his flying bike and missile.
At the conclusion of the story, the Police Commissioner appoints Ajay, i.e., Toofan, to the post of Inspector in the police force. Now, he protects society by becoming a responsible police officer during the day and the superhero Storm at night, whenever needed.
Deep analysis of characters
Ajay / Storm:
Ajay’s character represents a traditional hero who transforms his personal grief, i.e., his father’s death, into a responsibility toward society. His real strength lies not in his muscles, but in his strong willpower. Professor Bhaskar also believes that the biggest reason for the success of the experiment was Ajay’s mental strength. Toofan’s costume is reminiscent of American superheroes of that era, but its purpose is deeply rooted in Indianness and patriotism.
Scorpion Sting (The Antagonist):
The most powerful aspect of this comic is its villain. Scorpion Sting’s look is extremely frightening. Red hair, a face full of wrinkles, and scorpions crawling all over his body make him a memorable villain. He is not just a criminal, but a walking biological weapon. His defeat shows that no matter how dangerous evil is, it cannot stand against wisdom, technology, and courage.
Professor Bhaskar:
Professor Bhaskar is the guide, i.e., the mentor of this story. His character shows how big a role science can play in the security of the country if it is used properly. He not only gives strength to Ajay, but also teaches him that these powers should be used only for the welfare of humanity and society.
Art and Portraiture
The greatest strength of ‘Storm and Scorpion Dunk’ is its spectacular artwork, executed perfectly by Pratap Mullick. The action scenes he created are so ‘dynamic’ that the speed and energy in every frame feel clear and impactful. When sound effects like ‘dhad’ and ‘kadk’ appear in the comic, the impact of each blow and collision feels even more powerful.
Along with this, the depiction of real and familiar areas of Delhi, like Connaught Place and Mehrauli Minar, in the background gives the story a relatable and down-to-earth feel. The intricate scientific equipment featured in the lab scenes, Storm’s red-blue flashy costume, and the design of his flying superbike make this comic visually rich. Meanwhile, the way villain ‘Scorpion Dunk’ is portrayed through dark colors and shadows makes his scary and dangerous personality even more effective.
Scientific and Fictional Elements (Sci-Fi Elements)
The juxtaposition of science and imagination was common in comics of that period, and ‘Storm’ also carries forward this tradition. Storm’s powers seem to be inspired, to some extent, by Marvel’s ‘Captain America’ or ‘Hulk’ in terms of gamma rays, while his high-tech gadgets give him a ‘Batman’ feel.
The most special element of this comic is its ‘superbike’. This jet engine–powered motorcycle, equipped with machine guns and missiles, was nothing less than a dream for the children of that era. Meanwhile, ‘Beta-X’ rays, which can melt even iron, reflect the tremendous imagination of the author and make the story more exciting.
Review: Pros and Cons
Features:
‘Storm’s biggest strength is its fast-paced storytelling. From the painful death of the father to the birth of the hero and finally the revenge, the narrative never slows down. Emotional connection is another strong aspect. A son’s determination to seek justice for his father and the sensitivity of their relationship emotionally connect the reader to the protagonist’s motivation. Along with this, Pratap Mullick’s excellent artwork adds life to every scene. Most importantly, a unique and dangerous villain like Scorpion Dunk elevates this comic from a simple crime story to a memorable superhero adventure.
Flaws:
Despite these strengths, in some places the story feels as if it moves forward a little too quickly. Ajay’s transformation into ‘Toofan’ is shown in a very short span of time. If the complexity of the scientific experimentation and the difficulties involved had been explored a bit more, the hero’s rise would have felt more powerful. Similarly, in the climax, it feels too easy and quick for Storm to defeat Scorpion Sting. If the final confrontation between the two had been longer and more challenging, the thrill could have reached its peak, giving the reader a much stronger ‘payoff’.
Social Context and Message
This comic belongs to a period when India was struggling with serious issues like terrorism and internal security. Through the story, an attempt has been made to show that in fighting terrorism, not only the police but also the courage of common citizens and the contribution of scientists are equally important. The comic strongly presents a sense of sacrifice and duty.
Along with this, it also conveys the message that physical weaknesses cannot stop a person from reaching their goal. Ajay is rejected by the police for being ‘unfit’, but later he emerges as one of the biggest protectors of the country.
Conclusion: A Timeless Composition (Final Verdict)
‘Storm and Scorpion Dunk’ is not just a comic, but a part of the memories that inspired an entire generation. This story reminds us that true heroes are not created only by superpowers, but by right thinking and strong intentions.
This offering from Manoj Comics is as interesting and worth reading today as it was in its time. If you want to understand the history of Indian comics or read a powerful action-adventure story, this comic deserves a place in your collection. Even though ‘Toofan’ could not later become part of a larger universe like Raj Comics, because of its simplicity, patriotism, and bravery, it will always remain ‘Toofan’ in the hearts of comic lovers.
Review Rating: 4.5/5
