Cartoonist Ira, founder at Cartoon Speaks is the creator of ‘Aaj kay Zala?’ (English translation: What happened today?) popular comic column in the legendary Marathi kids magazine ‘Kishor’ established in 1971 in India. It is aimed at 8-14 year old school going kids. Each month brings a new story of inquisitive siblings duo ‘Kuhu-Neel’ who are up to something at home, school, playground or other interesting places where kids are found! Kuhu is the elder sister (6 year old) while Neel is a cute little brother (3 year old). They come up with innovative solutions to everyday problems, situations and innocent perspectives which are thought provoking and humorous for the readers, young old alike.

This cartoon column has built consistent engagement among readers across Maharashtra and is popular even among online readers from across the globe. ‘Kishor’ has an impressive magazine subscriber count of monthly subscribers more than 1 lakh copies per month. Loyal magazine readers as well as notable writers and lyricists have appreciated the cartoon illustrations, story line and the innocence of the characters immensely since the column started in Jan 2026.