4682 - Shantala
Author: Amar Chitra Katha
Description This comic narrates the life of Shāntalā, queen of King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala dynasty in South India. Born a Jain, she embodied ahiṃsā (non-violence), grace, and compassion. Her life stood in contrast to her husband’s military ambitions as he sought to expand and consolidate the Hoysala kingdom. Shāntalā’s legacy lived on through the temples and artistic marvels she inspired, reflecting devotion, cultural refinement, and the endurance of moral strength amid political power struggles. Keywords Shantala, Hoysala queen, Jain faith, non-violence (ahiṃsā), compassion (dayā), South Indian history, temple architecture (mandira-kalā), moral courage (dhairya), cultural legacy Ideal For Readers interested in Indian history, biographies of women leaders, South Indian dynasties, and the intersection of politics, spirituality, and art presented through visual storytelling. Age Recommended for ages 10 to 16 years, but also meaningful for adults interested in cultural heritage and moral biographies. Theme The conflict between war and peace, ambition and ahiṃsā, the moral authority of compassion, and the shaping of legacy through architecture and cultural patronage. Tone Reflective, dignified, inspirational, and poignant, focusing on values and cultural contribution rather than dramatic warfare. Book Type Comic book / graphic biography; part of Amar Chitra Katha’s historical biography series, issue number 818, authored by Gayatri Madan Dutt and illustrated by Souren Roy. Length Approximately 32–34 pages.