Can you imagine winning a war, returning home, and seeing someone else sitting in your place? He looks just like you, talks like you, and even your wife and mentor are tricked into believing that he is you.
This story, “Tausi Aur Tausi,” by Tulsi Comics’ uncrowned king, ‘Tausi’, reminds us of a time when comics were not just a pastime but a magical experience. Written by Rituraj and illustrated by Mrs. Rajikdam, the comic is a memorable story of the struggle between an ‘identity crisis’ and ‘love versus power’.
Background of the Story: Ashwamedha Yagya and a Difficult Resolution
The story begins with a grand celebration. Ichchadhari Nagkumar Tausi and Apsara are married. The entire snake kingdom is immersed in happiness. Then Tausi’s guru, ‘Nagbaba’, entrusts him with a great responsibility—to perform the ‘Ashwamedha Yagya’ to prove his superiority in the underworld.
But this yagya was not an ordinary ritual. Its terms were very difficult:
- Tausi cannot enter the palace until the horse of the yagya returns after circling the entire underworld.
- He cannot meet his wife, Apsara.
- He cannot sit on the throne and must live under the open sky.
Tausi, who follows religion and duty with complete devotion, accepts these conditions. From here, the story takes a turn that surprises the readers.
The Beginning of the Suspense: “I Am Real, You Are Fake!”
It is only when Tausi reaches the border with the sacrificial horse that an elusive force, disguised as a raven, begins its game. That raven takes the form of Tausi. Now there are two Tausis in the underworld. One is following the difficult conditions of the yagya, and the other is trying to enter the palace and take Tausi’s place.
That’s where the questions that make this story a classic begin:
• If the two share the same looks, voices, and powers, who is the real one?
• Will Apsara be able to recognize her husband by his touch and behavior?
• Will Nagbaba’s divine vision be able to break this web of illusion?
War and Confrontation: The Clash of Swords and Magical Powers
When the real Tausi discovers that someone is trying to take away his identity, he arrives at the palace. There, both Tausis come face to face. Everyone present in the court is surprised. Even the army and the council do not understand whom to support.
Action Peak:
The comic features the battle scenes in a very lively manner. Archery, mace combat, and finally sword fighting. Both warriors face each other’s every attack boldly. The situation becomes even more difficult when both of them transform into ‘lions’, proving themselves to be ‘Ichchadhari Nags’. When the powers of both are equal, the decision is not made by the sword but by wisdom.
Great Verdict: The Greed of Power or the Truth of Love?
When Nagbaba and the Cabinet are unable to make any decision, a unique proposal is put forward. This proposal becomes the biggest highlight of the comic.
The decision was this: one Tausi would get the ‘throne of Sarpadesh’ and the other would get ‘Apsara’.
This is where the story reaches its most emotional turn. The fake Tausi, who was actually a ghost or evil spirit greedy for power, chooses the throne without any delay. He believes that if he gets power, he will get everything.
But the answer of the real Tausi wins the heart of every reader. He says—”I don’t want the throne; I want my Apsara. My life without Apsara and this kingdom, both are meaningless.”
Tausi’s sacrifice proves that the real hero is the one who rejects even an entire empire for love and family. Seeing his selfless spirit, Nagbaba declares him to be the real Tausi.
Artwork and Style: A Great Visual Experience
Tulsi Comics had its own distinct identity, with its bright colors and the clearly visible expressions on the faces of the characters.
• Portrait: Mrs. Rajikdam has beautifully depicted Tausi’s bravery and Apsara’s tenderness.
• Battle Scene: The use of sound effects like ‘Say-Say’ and ‘Khann-Khann’ makes the reader feel like a direct part of the battlefield.
• Character Design: Nagbaba’s stunning appearance and the slight contrast between the two Tausis, which can only be noticed upon careful observation, are fine examples of the artwork.
Why is “Tausi Aur Tausi” a Must-Read Comic?
Today, when we see stories like the ‘Multiverse’ and ‘Doppelganger’ in Hollywood films, we feel proud that Indian comics had introduced this idea with such depth decades ago.
Features of this comic:
- Moral Education: It teaches that our identity is not defined by our position, but by our character and our choices.
- Suspense: Until the very end, the reader keeps wondering who the real Tausi is.
- Emotional Connection: The love between Tausi and Apsara is the strongest link in this entire story.
Do You Remember This Hero?
If you have been a fan of Tulsi Comics, then you must remember the trio of ‘Angara’, ‘Jambu’, and ‘Tausi’. Tausi’s Ichchadhari appearance and his snake loop are still alive in the memories of comic lovers.
A Question for You:
If you had to choose between immense wealth and power or the person you love the most, what would you choose? We know Tausi’s decision—what would yours be? Please share your opinion in the comments!
Final Conclusion
Verdict: “Tausi Aur Tausi” is a timeless masterpiece. This comic is not just for children but for everyone who appreciates a good story. The curiosity created by the advertisement for “Son of Tausi” at the end of this issue excited readers of that time in much the same way that a post-credit scene does for today’s Netflix audience.
