faqs
General Questions
Q1. What is BhASA?
BhASA – The Bhartiya Association of Sequential Arts – is India’s first nonprofit organization dedicated to comics and sequential storytelling. We aim to support creators, preserve India’s comic heritage, and connect Indian storytelling with global platforms.
Q2. Why was BhASA created?
Because Indian comics have often been marginalized in cultural forums, overlooked by policymakers, and unsupported by institutions. BhASA was created to fill this gap — to provide structure, recognition, and opportunities for creators.
Q3. What does “BhASA” mean?
“BhASA” means language in Sanskrit. Just like language connects people, comics are a universal language of stories. Our name reflects this spirit of communication, culture, and creativity.
Q4. Who can join BhASA?
- Anyone passionate about comics! Membership is open to:
- Professional creators (artists, writers, publishers)
- Students and enthusiasts
- Institutions (schools, universities, cultural bodies)
- Life and annual members
Q5. Is BhASA only for comic artists?
No. While supporting creators is our primary goal, Bhasa also welcomes fans, educators, researchers, and institutions who want to contribute to or learn from the world of comics.
Membership & Benefits
Q6. What types of memberships are available?
We offer Life, Annual, Institutional, and Student memberships. Each comes with benefits like networking opportunities, access to programs, and representation in BhASA’s initiatives.
Q7. Why should I become a member?
- Membership gives you:
- Access to residencies and grants
- Opportunities to showcase your work at festivals
- Legal and financial guidance
- Health and term insurance options
- A collective voice in shaping the comics ecosystem
Q8. How do I join?
Simply visit the Membership section on our website and fill out the form. Our team will guide you through the process.
Q9. Is there a membership fee?
Yes, a nominal fee applies depending on the type of membership (student, annual, life, or institutional). The fee also contributes to programs like archiving, insurance support, and community initiatives.
Programs & Support
Q10. What kind of support does BhASA provide to creators?
- We offer:
- Residency Programs for artists to create new projects
- Legal advisory on intellectual property and publishing
- Insurance guidance for creators without corporate support
- Workshops and lectures in schools and universities
- Archival projects to preserve creators’ legacies
Q11. What is the residency program?
A platform where artists can spend dedicated time in different states of India (and eventually abroad) to develop projects, collaborate, and showcase their work.
Q12. Will BhASA help me publish my comic?
Yes — while we’re not a publisher ourselves, we facilitate connections with major Indian and international publishers, festivals, and exhibitions to help you reach wider audiences.
Q13. Does BhASA provide funding?
We are working to secure CSR support, grants, and government collaborations to fund projects. Our long-term vision is to offer grants and awards to creators through a structured jury system.
Heritage & Archiving
Q14. Why is BhASA creating an archive?
Because Indian comics have a rich but undocumented history. Our archive will chronicle past creators, publications, and movements so future generations can learn from and celebrate them.
Q15. Can I contribute to the archive?
Yes! If you own rare comics, artwork, or historical material, we’d love to preserve them as part of BhASA’s heritage project. Contributors will always be credited.
International Collaboration
Q16. Does BhASA work with international festivals?
Yes. We’re actively engaging with festivals like Angoulême in France and Comiket in the Philippines. Our aim is to put Indian comics on global platforms and enable cultural exchange.
Q17. Will BhASA help Indian artists gain global recognition?
Absolutely. Through collaborations, exhibitions, and cultural programs, we want Indian creators to share stages with their international peers.
Education & Policy
Q18. Is BhASA working with schools and universities?
Yes. Under India’s NEP 2020 education policy, comics can be powerful learning tools. BhASA aims to collaborate with schools and colleges to integrate comics into curriculum and workshops.
Q19. How does BhASA influence policy?
We involve bureaucrats, educators, and policymakers on our advisory board. Our focus is to create policies that support comics, including recognition as an art form, funding, and representation in cultural forums.
Practical Questions
Q20. How do I contact BhASA?
Email us at help@bhasaonline.com or use the contact form on our website.
Q21. Where is BhASA based?
Our central operations are in New Delhi, India, but our community and programs span the entire country.
Q22. Can non-Indians join BhASA?
Yes. While our primary focus is Indian comics, we welcome global supporters and collaborators.
Q23. I’m new to comics. Can I still join?
Of course! Whether you’re just starting or a seasoned creator, BhASA is for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling.