When we think of awards in Bollywood, the three Khans Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir instantly come to mind. Each has ruled the big screen in his own way for decades. But this time, it’s not a film award or a box-office milestone that’s making news, it’s an honour connected to India’s most iconic cartoonist, the late RK Laxman.
When and where to watch RK Laxman Award for Excellence?
In a special tribute to the legendary artist, the RK Laxman family has announced the first-ever RK Laxman Award for Excellence, and the very first recipient will be the one and only, Aamir Khan.
The award will be given to Aamir in Pune on November 23, 2025, with a live concert by Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman. The ceremony will begin at 5 pm at the MCA Cricket Stadium, where music and memories will come together to honour the cartoonist who created one of India’s most loved characters, The Common Man.
Family pays tribute through music and art
Speaking to IANS, Usha Laxman, daughter-in-law of the late cartoonist, said, “The R.K. Laxman family has organised an AR Rahman live music concert on November 23 at the MCA Cricket Stadium. During the event, we will pay tribute to RK Laxman by instituting the first-ever RK Laxman Award for Excellence.”
She confirmed that Aamir Khan will receive the inaugural award, adding, “This will be the biggest tribute we, as a family, are offering to Laxman.”
Why Aamir Khan is the perfect choice?
Known as Bollywood’s ‘Mr. Perfectionist,’ Aamir Khan is known for films that challenge convention, from Lagaan and Taare Zameen Par to Dangal. His acting skills and commitment to picking up meaningful scripts makes him the right choice for an award honouring creative brilliance.
Remembering RK Laxman’s timeless legacy
Late RK Laxman is still one of India’s most beloved cartoonists. Best known for his iconic cartoon strip ‘You Said It’ and his creation ‘The Common Man,’ Laxman skillfully captured the humour, irony, and everyday struggles of ordinary Indians, making people smile, think, and reflect all at once.
He also created the sketches for the classic TV series Malgudi Days, written by his brother RK Narayan. Over his lifetime, he received several honours, including the Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Mysore.
With AR Rahman’s music, Aamir Khan’s presence, and R.K. Laxman’s legacy, the upcoming tribute will be one of the most memorable cultural evenings of the year.
