On May 26, 2025, Bollywood actor and animal enthusiast John Abraham is set to launch "Lakadbaggha: The Prologue" in Mumbai. This comic book is an adaptation of the 2023 action film "Lakadbaggha," which stars Anshuman Jha. The launch event will host the creators and cast members of the "Lakadbaggha" franchise, including Ridhi Dogra.
"Lakadbaggha: The Prologue" is written by Anshuman Jha and features illustrations by American comic book artist Brittain Peck. The graphic novel serves as the first chapter in a new storytelling universe that introduces Arjun Bakshi, the animal-loving vigilante.
Anshuman Jha shared his inspiration for the comic book, citing his childhood love for comics like Chacha Choudhary, Nagraj, and Tintin, as well as his deep connection with animals and nature. He envisioned a hero who would champion the voiceless, both on and off-screen. "Lakadbaggha: The Prologue" marks the beginning of this dream, with Jha expressing his ambition to expand the universe of the animal lover vigilante across comics and cinema.
Brittain Peck conveyed his enthusiasm for partnering with Anshuman Jha and bringing Arjun Bakshi to life in a comic book. He admired the film and felt honored to contribute to the project. Peck also reflected on his childhood spent exploring comic book shops and seeking characters and stories he could relate to. He believes that Arjun Bakshi's story of protecting the less fortunate is one that he wishes he had encountered as a child, making him eager to create Arjun as a comic book hero for today's young readers.
The original film, "Lakadbaggha," revolves around Arjun Bakshi, a martial arts teacher and animal lover. After his dog Shanku goes missing, Arjun's search leads him to uncover an illegal animal trade operation in Kolkata, headed by Aryan, who is the brother of Crime Branch officer Akshara D'Souza.
"Lakadbaggha: The Prologue" delves deeper into Arjun's world, providing a layered origin story for the vigilante, his mission, and his bond with his canine companion. The comic book adopts a nostalgic Tintin-style retro aesthetic, combined with Indian storytelling.
The comic book was initially unveiled at Mumbai Comic Con 2024 in the presence of Anshuman Jha and the creative team from First Ray Films. "Lakadbaggha: The Prologue" aims to expand the vigilante universe, with potential for a sequel movie and further comic book series.
