Raj Comics’ “ Ateet (The Past)” special issue is a memorable and thought-provoking presentation for fans of Super Commando Dhruv. This comic is not just an exciting story, but it opens up layers of Dhruv’s personal and family history, taking him and his readers on a deep emotional journey. This comic, written and illustrated by Anupam Sinha, is one of the finest stories of its time, which still seems equally relevant and impressive today.
The Beginning: Dhruv Under Accusation
The comic begins with a twist where our hero Super Commando Dhruv gets arrested for a sensational assassination attempt. He is accused of attempting to murder a man named Mr. Jacob, due to which he is going to get an insurance claim worth lakhs. This allegation not only questions Dhruv’s credibility but also puts his entire life in a new crisis. Journalists and policemen surround him, and this is where a second big revelation occurs – Dhruv’s father was also a wanted criminal. This information shocks Dhruv, as he has always seen his father as a role model. Dhruv feels that he is being framed in the same way as his father was. It is this mysterious opening that draws the reader deep into the story.
The Shadow of the Past: Personal vs. Family History
The comic’s title “Past” captures the basic theme of the story perfectly. It is from here that the author has presented the idea that every human being has two types of past – personal and family. While one is well aware of one’s personal past, the family past often remains a mystery. This family past sometimes dominates the personal past so much that one has to bear the brunt of the mistakes of one’s ancestors. Same thing is happening with Dhruv also. He is facing his father’s alleged criminal past, and he has to prove that he is innocent, and so is his father. This duality gives a philosophical touch to the story and further complicates Dhruv’s character.
Conspiracy and Deception
The news of Dhruv’s arrest spreads like wildfire. Villains like Luke, Bull’s Eye and B-Read are looking to take advantage of this opportunity. Their aim is to eliminate Jacob, so that they can take over his property and get Dhruv out of their way by hanging him. They use a local gang to kill Jacob. This gang tries to kill Jacob by breaking into the hospital, but Dhruv exposes them with his cleverness and pre-planning. He knew that upon hearing the news of his arrest these criminals would be foolish to attack Jacob. Dhruv had put a wax figure in Jacob’s place and kept the real Jacob safe in another room. The move was part of Dhruv’s strategy to lure the villains into a trap.
Dhruv’s Investigation and Luka’s Identity
During his interrogation of the goons, Dhruv learns that they were given money by a bald, foreign accented man. Dhruv immediately understands that the man is Luke, who wants to usurp Jacob’s property. He also learns that Luke is going out of port on a private ship with his companions. Dhruv’s plan was successful, but the main culprit, Luke, and his associates had left India. Now Dhruv has to not only prove his innocence but also catch the criminals who have brought his father’s past into question.
The Paris Connection and New Enemies
Dhruv travels to Paris in search of his father’s old records. She suspects that some information related to her father may be found in Paris. During this journey, he has to face some new and mysterious enemies. One of these is the “Killer”, which attacks the Pole. Dhruv also encounters a mysterious girl “Jigsaw”, who saves him repeatedly and then disappears. Jigsaw’s character adds an element of mystery to the story and makes the reader think about his true intentions.
The Bloody Legacy and Jigsaw’s Return
In Paris Dhruv learns that there is a secret of a ” khooni Khanadaan” associated with his father and Jacob. This family is part of an old enmity, whose roots extend deep into Dhruv’s family. It is here that a mysterious figure called ” Jigsaw ” returns, who is connected to Dhruva’s past. Jigsaw is a dangerous criminal, who is part of a deep conspiracy against Dhruv and his family. With Jigsaw’s introduction in the comic, the story becomes even more complex and exciting.
The Arena: A Battle for Truth
An important part of the story takes place in an arena, where Dhruv faces a powerful wrestler named “Crusher”. Crusher is a pawn in the plot of Luke and Jigsaw. In this fight, Dhruv has to show not only his physical strength but also his mental strength. This fight is not just a physical confrontation, but a battle between truth and deception. Dhruv has to prove that he is innocent and can get justice by freeing himself from the burden of his family’s past.
Jigsaw’s Mystery and Dhruv’s Resolve
Jigsaw’s character remains a puzzle in the comic. Sometimes she helps Dhruv and sometimes challenges him. His mysterious behavior keeps the reader engaged in the story. In the end, Dhruv learns that Jigsaw is also connected to his family’s past and has a motive of his own. Dhruv eventually resolves to erase the stain on his father’s name and solve mysteries related to his family’s past.
Artwork: The Brilliance of Anupam Sinha
Anupam Sinha’s artistic contribution makes this comic unforgettable. His pictures bring the story to life and reflect the emotions of the characters very well. The action sequences are particularly impressive, capturing the pace and tension in the best way. Color-combination and paneling also play an important role in establishing the mood of the story. Sinha’s portrayal style, which has been the hallmark of Raj Comics, appears to be at its peak in “Pateet”.
Dialogues and Language: Powerful and Moving
The comic’s dialogue is effective and poignant. They highlight the characters’ personalities and move the story forward. The use of Hindi language is simple and understandable, making it accessible to a wide audience. Some dialogues, especially those depicting Dhruv’s self-reflection and his resolution, leave a deep impression on the reader.
Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Raj Comics
Ateet is one of Raj Comics’ finest creations, adding new layers of depth to Super Commando Dhruv’s character. It’s not just an action thriller—it’s also a profound reflection on identity, family, and the burden of the past. With the perfect blend of storytelling, artwork, and emotional intensity, Anupam Sinha delivers an unforgettable experience.
This issue is a must-read for every Raj Comics fan. It deepens the understanding of Dhruv’s universe and his complexities as a hero. Ateet forces us to think about how our past—whether personal or ancestral—shapes our present and future. It teaches that sometimes we must confront the legacies left behind by our forefathers, whether good or bad, in order to define our true identity.
