107 One Man Show – Special Issues in Tamil Comics Ulagam & Editor S.Vijayan’s Contribution: TCU’s 50th Special Post

Dear ComiRades,

Welcome Back after a 3 Week Break from continuous postings at TCU. This is the 50th Post in this Blog and as usual, TCU has planned this Special Post well in advance and You Could be Reading what is the Possibly Lengthiest Comics Review Post and That is Something Very Special. Speaking about Specials, the theme of this post itself is “Special”. Now, what do we mean by special? Any Dictionary will tell that anything that is “Special” is Distinguished by a unique or unusual quality from the rest. Like wise, Special Issues in Comics are distinguished from the rest of the regular issues in the following way:

• Increase in Shape (Bigger Size) as compared from the regular issues.
• Increase in the No. Of Pages as compared from the regular issues.
• Increase in the No. Of Stories as compared from the regular issues.

Based on these parameters, we can classify special issues in Tamil Comics Ulagam. And when TCU Has gone through the the entire Comics Collections starting from the Initial Issues of Indrajal Comics in Tamil in the Mid 60’s to the latest Comic Book in the Month Of Feb 2009, there was a startling fact that need to to be recorded in the annals of Tamil Comics History.

Till 1984 (When Editor S.Vijayan Came into Tamil Comics Ulagam) there were only “So-Called” Special Issues from Indrajal Comics (One Issue in 1969 with 18 additional pages and hence that cannot be categorised as a REAL Special Issue) and Muthu Comics (Couple of Issues in Full Colour with almost the same Number of Pages and even these cannot be categorised as Special Issues). And after S.Vijayan’s Entry into Tamil Comics, there was Only One Special Issue from Mekala Comics (And this entire series will be reviewed in TCU Very, Very soon). Only One Special Issue in the entire History of Tamil Comics is Not Edited By Vijayan and that needs to be Appreciated and hence this Post is Made.

Year 1984: Most of the Better things in Life are Not planned and in falling with the same concept, The first Ever special Issue in Tamil Comics was also conceived suddenly and almost made out of compulsion, because of the Length of the Story. This is what the editor has to say about the first ever special issue:

From the Editor Himself: How The 1st Ever Special Issue in Lion Comics Was Originated Suddenly and the Back Ground Stories Behind it

Hence, the 1st ever Special Issue of Tamil Comics was a forced One because the Story was a Lengthy One and could not be accommodated in the normal size of the Book and then Vijayan announced that the next issue will be a Special Issue and to Make sure that the High pricing was negated, He printed the Entire Book in Double Colour and in Big Size.

Lion Comics Issue No 4 Dated Oct 1984 Ad for 1st Ever Special Issue	Editor Explains: How The 2nd Special Issue in Lion Was Designed

The first ever Special Issue in Tamil Comics was a Huge Hit and the Cover Design proved to be a Major Reason for that apart from Having the Steel Claw in the Cover, even though it is NOT THAT Steel Claw. There is a Nice and interesting Story behind this cover design and this particular cover design was not the original one to be used (TCU Has THAT Original Cover and will be Posted in No Comments 2 very soon). The Other specialty of this book is that it featured the 1st ever comics story written by Editor S Vijayan. More on that Later in TCU.

Lion Comics No 4:Irumbu Manidhan-Robot Archie- Diwali Special-Cover-Dated Oct 1984–1st Ever Special Issue-A4 Size-Double Colour-64 Pages

Year 1985: After the great success of the Diwali Special, The Editor got encouraged and as a result, he launched yet another special issue within 3 months time and this particular issue was also a Mega Success.

Lion Comics No 8:Kolaip Padai-Pongal Special-Front Cover-Dated Jan 1985	Back Cover- Archie- Marma Thevu-A 4 Size –Double Colour – 64 Pages

As Explained by the Editor in the Above Scan, The New Hero John Master (From Fleetway) proved to be a Good Addition to the existing heroes of Lion Comics.(It was rather unfortunate that he was actually featured in Only 2 Complete stories in Fleetway/Eagle/?!). As a Norm in those days, This Special Issue also carried Robot Archie story as the 2nd Story and the 3rd Story was a Small story of “Thuppariyum Computer/துப்பறியும் கம்பியுட்டர்”.

Lion Comics No 13: Summer Special -  Front Cover - Dated May 1985	Back Cover – Robot Archie Nadhi Arakkan-A 4 Size – 64 Pages

The Next one in waiting was The 1st Ever Annual of Lion Comics and as he had given a Special Issue Just a Month Ago, Editor Didn’t want to announce another High Priced Special Issue and Hence he Announced This Special very Cautiously with a Price of INR 3.00 Only. Unfortunately, This Scheme Continued for the Rest of the Years and the Annual Was An Almost Neglected Special. This is what the Editor Has to say about the 1st Ever Annual of Lion Comics. 

This Particular Story of Spider is of Historical Importance as Spider Becomes a Custodian of the Law from this Story (Also, As He officially Becomes the Law Man from Spider Vs The Exterminator/நீதிக் காவலன் ஸ்பைடர்).It Has Become One of the Collectors Edition in Both English and Tamil.

Lion Comics No 15:Saithan Vinjani-Annual -  Front Cover - Dated July1985	Kudhirai Veeran Aarchie-Back Cover-Pocket Size – 180 Pages

After the Annual, Then came the Diwali Special. And the Story that Changed the Reading Habit of The Tamil Comics Readers. Even though Western/Cow Boy Stories were already been introduced to Tamil Comics (Courtesy-AFI & Muthu Comics) and some of them become instant Hits (Cisco Kid) and other One Off Cow Boy Stories (The Most Memorable One being the Soodhadum Seemaatti/சூதாடும் சீமாட்டி) which got also re printed in Rani Comics in the 80’s. But, this One was Quite different from the rest and the back ground story on How Tex Willer came into Tamil Comics Ulagam Was quite fascinating. Read On:

Editor Explains: How One Of the Best Ever Heroes in Tamil, Tex Willer, Was Introduced & Back Ground Stories Behind it (Read Muthu Fan’s Post On this)

What A Story it turned out to be? Long Before the Richard Gere Starrer Primal Fear and The Tamil Movie Anniyan/அன்னியன் hit the screens, Tex Willer introduced what exactly is a Multiple Personality Disorder.

Lion Comics No 19:Thalai Vangi Kurangu-Diwali Special-Front Cover-Nov1985	Lion Comics No 19:Back Cover-114 Pages – B5 Size

As Mr Vijayan Entered into Tamil comics domain, There was a Crisis Looming in His Family circle as his Father and His Brother had Parted ways and hence Muthu Comics was out of print for years. Vijayan’s Hand was a Major factor in The Return Of Muthu Comics. This can be seen in the way this particular special was designed and Mr Vijayan was Instrumental in the return of Steel Claw. This Particular Issue Is Now Printed in Comics Classics in the Next Issue which may Hit the Stands in July 2009.

Muthu Comics No 144:Vinveli Kollaiyar -Diwali Special-Nov1985–A 4 Size-64 PagesTo Read Comics Doctor’s Comprehensive Review, Click HERE

Year 1986: For the 2nd Year Running, Lion Comics Came out with a Pongal Special and the Heron Was Irumbuk Kai Norman. In those days (Especially after the Huge Success of 1st Ever Special Issue in Lion Comics Featuring a Steel Claw in the Cover), Steel Claw/இரும்புக் கை was Considered a Lucky Charm and if you Happen to Have any on the cover of the Comics, Then it bound to be a super hit in terms of Sales. And Mr Vijayan was On the Look Out for similar Heroes with a Steel claw and He found One in Eagle (The Mark 2 Eagle of the 80’s) and Hence he was introduced to Tamil Comics Amidst much Fan Fare. The Advertisements created a Lot of Hype and The Expectation Meter Reached The Maximum for this Book.

Lion Comics No 21:Manidha Erimalai-Pongal Special-Ads & Cover-Jan 1986-இரும்புக் கை நார்மனின் மனித எரிமலை-114 Pages – B5 Size

This is one piece of History that every Comics Lover Must Possess. It was one of those pocket sized Dynamites and it was off 324 Pages and THIS is actually the Original Special Issue and Read what the Editor has to say about how it was conceived:

The Sudden-Change-Syndrome Has Actually Started with This Issue. Instead of the Announced Thavalai Edhiri, Kutra Thozhirsalai Made it to the Print and the Final Storyline Consisted Of the following Heroes:

1. Walt Disney’s Eagle man ஈகிள் மேன் -விசித்திரக் கடத்தல் Partly Multi coluor.

2. Irumbuk Kai Norman’s Panimalyil oru Pinam பனியில் ஒரு பிணம்

3. Sporty & Sydney Vichu Kichu 2 page உங்கள் அபிமான விச்சு கிச்சு

4. Robot Archie’s Kanaga Mosadi கானக மோசடி

5. The Spider’s Kutra Thozhirsalai குற்ற தொழிற்சாலை

6. Barracuda-Lawrance David’s Kaanamal Pona Vinjani காணாமல் போன விஞ்சானி

7. SI6 Hunters – Irattai Vettaiyar – Raththa Veriyan ரத்த வெறியன் Partly Multi coluor

Lion Comics No 25:1st Ever Pocket Size Bonanza–Summer Special-Covers-May 1986	Alternative Cover for the 1986 Summer Special

Following the Summer Special was the 2nd Annual of Lion Comics Featuring Tex Willer’s பவளச் சிலை மர்மம். Die Hard ComiRades May Recall the Continuity connection of this Story With Lion Comics Issue No 150 - மந்திர மண்டலம்.

Lion Comics No 27:Pavala Silai Marmam–Annual-Front Cover-July 1986	Lion Comics No 27:Pavala Silai Marmam–Annual-Back Cover-July 1986

Then Came the Diwali in Nov and after the great success of the Pocket Size Special Issue in the Summer, The Editor chose to play it safe with the Same Size and the Number of Pages. It featured the following heroes and stories:

Lion Comics No 31:Diwali Special-Front Cover-Nov 1986

 

Pocket Size–324 Pages–Laminated Cover–INR 5.00

1. SI-6 Hunters - இரட்டை வேட்டையர் திடீர் துரோகி

2. Modesty Blaise La Mchine - மாடஸ்டி பிளெய்சி மரண யந்திரம்

3. Norman இரும்புக் கை நார்மன் இரத்தக் கண்ணீர்

4. Barracuda – Lawrans David லாரன்ஸ் டேவிட் ஆழ்கடல் யுத்தம்

5. The Spider – Vs The Ant ஸ்பைடர் தவளை எதிரி

6. Robot Archie Vs The Sludge ரோபோ ஆர்ச்சி பனி மனிதன் (Read Limat’s Post On This)

7. Sporty & Sydney Vichu Kichu 2 page உங்கள் அபிமான விச்சு கிச்சு

8. Buster ஜோக்கர்

Now, This Particular Issue is One of the Collector’s Delight and amongst the Most-Hard-To-Find-Books and it is Not a Surprise that Even though TCU Has two copies of this book, the cover’s are in damaged condition.

 

Year 1987: This was One of the Most Important Year in terms of History in Tamil Comics Ulagam. In Terms of Special Issues Also, it was a Good Year. Muthu Comics Released a “Sort-Off” Special Issue in the month of April as a “Tamil New Year Special” or we can term that as Annual also. The Tex Willer Story Was a Normal Issue which was called “Pongal Special”, a La Rani Comics which used to Publish Pongal Special, Tamil New Year Special, Diwali Special etc with just 8 More Additional Pages and we do not know weather it was sort of mocking them or something close to that.

Lion Comics No 33:Pongal Special-Front Cover-Jan 1987	Muthu Comics No 158:Tamil New Year Special-Covers-April 1987–Click HERE to Read

The Summer Special Was One of the Most Vividly Recalled one among all the other Special issues. TCU Bought this Summer Special When Yours Truly shifted from Hyderabad to Chennai in and The 2 Other Books that TCU Bought along with this Books are Still in Memory (மதி காமிக்ஸ்-முல்லை தங்கராசனின் புலித் தீவில்மாயாவி-Missing-அணில் அண்ணா-இன்ஸ்பெக்டர் விக்ரம் மின்னல் மாயாவி). The same Formula Was Same-Pocket Size–324 Pages–Laminated Cover–INR 5.00.

This Issue Contained Some of the Memorable Stories:

1. The Spider – Red Baron ஸ்பைடர் சிவப்பு தளபதி

2. Modesty Blaise மாடஸ்டி பிளைசி கார்வினின் யாத்திரைகள்

3. Barracuda & Frollo லாரன்ஸ் டேவிட் எலிகள் ஜாக்கிரதை

4. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் பழிக்கு பழி

5. SI-6 The Hunters இரட்டை வேட்டையர் திருடனுக்கு திருடன்

6. Robot Archie ரோபோ ஆர்ச்சி வெனிஸ் நகரில் ஆர்ச்சி.

Lion Comics No 36:Summer Special–covers – Dated April 1987 – One of the Very Best Pocket Sized Specials, 2nd Best After Diwali Super Special

The One-And-Half Year Old Thigil Comics (திகில் காமிக்ஸ் கோடை மலர்) Also Joined this Bandwagon and it came out with its own Summer Special And Boy, What a Special It was. It also followed the same Style as that of the previous Specials: Pocket Size–324 Pages–Laminated Cover–INR 5.00.

1. Wilson இரும்புக் கை ஏஜண்ட் வில்சன் திகில் பயணம்

2. Sexton Blake பேய் வீரர் செக்ஸ்டன் பிளேக் பிசாசு வனம்

3. Batman பேட்மேன் ஒரு அறிமுகம்

4. The Saint ரோஜர் மூர் விரட்டி வரும் மரணம்

5. Grimm’s Ghost Stories கருப்பு கிழவி கதை – சாபம்

6. Bear Paw ஜான் ரேம்போ - மோசடி நாடகம்

7. Grimm’s Ghost Stories கருப்பு கிழவி கதை கல்லறை கீதம்

8. Spider ஸ்பைடர் விண்வெளி பிசாசு தொடர் கதை

9. Bernard Prince கேப்டன் பிரின்ஸ் மரண வைரங்கள்

Thigil Comics No 17:Summer Special-Front Cover-May 1987	Thigil Comics No 17:Summer Special-Back Cover-May 1987

Then Came the Greatest Ever Tamil Comics Book and It Was Aptly titled As Diwali Super Special. It also followed the same Style as that of the previous Specials, Only that They Were Doubled: Pocket Size–532 Pages–Laminated Cover–INR 10.00 & Lucky Luke Story in Multi Colour. TCU Strongly Recommends To Read Muthu Fan’s Excellent Review Post on this Issue by Clicking HERE. As Part of the Promotional Campaign, Posters were sent to those ComiRades who Wrote and requested to the Lion Comics Office. Here is the Scan of the Posters:

Almost all the stories were the same as advertised, except for the S.I-6 Hunters Story which was Edited and Made Ready for the Pocket Size and then it was found out that the Total Number of Pages was Exceeding their Calculation and Hence it was withdrawn from the Special and it was replaced by a  Fleetway Short Story Called Tigers.

Lion Comics No 42:Diwali Super Special-covers–Dated Oct 1987–The Best Ever Special in Tamil Comics, To Read Muthu Fan’s Review, Click HERE

Even though the Redoubtable Muthu Fan Has already posted on this Book with More than Enough Details, TCU Has Plans to do a Individual Post on this Issue combining all the Memorabilia and collectibles related with This Mega Issue. Now, ComiRades may ask what Could Be that? Here is one such Sample:

Year 1988: The Next Year, Mini Lion also joined the Special Issues Publication and they came out with a Summer Special of their Own which was (And Still is) Among the Rarest Issues to Get. Here Are the Advertised Stories for this Book:

B-5 Size – 100 Pages – 34 Pages in Double Colour – 8 Stories - Laminated Cover – Price INR 3.00

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Lucky Luke லக்கி லுக் ஒரு ஜோஸ்யனின் கதை, Read Carefully This is Not ஜுடோ ஜோஸின் கதை

2. Walt Disney’s Uncle Scrooge அங்கிள் ஸ்குரூஜ் யார் பிரபலம்?

3. Super Pilot Tiger சூப்பர் பைலட் டைகர் தங்கப் பாதை

4. Tony & Frett கை நிறைய வைரம் சாகச சிறுகதை

5. Tatty Mane பரட்டை தலை ராஜா

6. Walt Disney’s Scamp களிமண் குட்டையில் ஸ்காம்ப்

7. Reg Wootton’s Sporty & Sydney உங்கள் அபிமான விச்சு கிச்சு

8. One Eyed Jack ஒற்றைக் கண் ஜாக் வேட்டை

Mini Lion Comics No 14:Summer Special-Front Cover-April 1988 – One of the Very Few Specials from Mini Lion- Memorable One- 6 Stories

This was the year in which the Historical 50th Issue Of Lion Comics was due and what an issue it turned out to be. The Editor has already given a Huge Hit in terms of Diwali Super Special. Still, this particular issue Is among the Very Best Issues Published By Him. When the advertisements were out, the expectation meter soared to a Possible Maximum and people were waiting to get it on their Hands.

As Usual, there were changes from the Schedule.

B-5 Size – 210 Pages – 5 Stories– Laminated Cover – Price INR 5.00 – Game Board Free With This Issue

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Huntsman Of the Deep Jim வேட்டை வீரர் ஜிம் மரணத்தை தேடி

2. Spider ஸ்பைடர் வீனஸ் கல் மர்மம்

3. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் டிராகன் நகரம்

4. Zip Nolan ஜார்ஜ் நோலன் சந்தேகத்தின் நிழல்

5. Scream சிறுகதை கடலில் முளைத்த பேய்  

Lion Comics No 50:Dragon Nagarm – Summer Special-Front Cover-May 1988	Lion Comics No 50:Dragon Nagarm – Summer Special-Back Cover-May 1988

To Read Muthu Fan’s Special Post on Specials, Click Here.

To Read about the Memorabilia பேய் வேட்டை தாய விளையாட்டு related with this Issue, CLICK Here.

This Happened to be the 1st ever Special Issue of Note in Muthu Comics as it came in the Pocket size.

Pocket Size – 288 Pages – 5 Stories– Laminated Cover – Price INR 5.00

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Action Picture Library Terror in the Deep ஆழ கடல் மயானம்

2. Kabeesh சுட்டிக் குரங்கு கபீஷ்

3. Johnny Neero ஜானி நீரோ ஸ்டெல்லா சாகசம் கொலைக் கரம்

4. Jess Long ஏஜண்ட் ஜெஸ் லாங் விசித்திர வியாபாரி

5. Steel Claw இரும்புக் கை மாயாவி ஸ்விட்சர்லாந்தில் மாயாவி!

Muthu Comics No 167:Muthu Special– Summer Special-Front Cover-May 1988 – To Read Doctor 7’s Comprehensive Review, CLICK HERE

As the Previous Special in Lion Comics Came in a Size different from than that of the Regular Pocket Size Special, And Proved to Be a Hit, The Diwali Special Also Followed Similar design and size. The Important thing to note is that Muthu Comics Started to Churn out Specials and they were in Pocket Size. Here is the Ad for the Diwali Special in Lion Comics:

The Announced Modesty Blaise Story was Replaced By a Fleetway short series (The King of Keg Island).

B-5 Size–194 Pages–5 Stories– Laminated Cover–Price INR 5 1. S.I 6 Hunters இரட்டை வேட்டையரின் எத்தனுக்கு எத்தன 2. Sporty & Sydney உங்கள் அபிமான விச்சு கிச்சு 3. SOS Squad அதிரடிப் படையின் விசித்திர விடுமுறை 4. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லரின் இரத்த முத்திரை 5. King of Keg Island கெக் தீவு மன்னன்	Pocket Size–276 Pages–3 Stories– Laminated Cover–INR 5.00 1. Steel Claw இரும்புக் கை மாயாவியின் சைத்தான் சிறுவர்கள்       2. Jess Long ஏஜண்ட் ஜெஸ் லாங்கின் மரண நகரம்             3. Inspector Eagle / Garuda இன்ஸ்பெக்டர் ஈகிளின் காணாமல் போன சிப்பாய்
Lion Comics No 56:Ratha Muthirai–Diwali Special-Front Cover-Nov 1988	Muthu Comics No 172:Saithan Siruvargal–Diwali Special-Cover-Nov 1988

Year 1989: This Special, Viking theevu Marmam Was advertised without info on other stories. That Was very odd considering that The Editor usually marks out the Trailers of the Special issues with utmost care.

Pocket Size – 276 Pages – 4 Stories– Laminated Cover – Price INR 5.00

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லரின் வைகிங் தீவு மர்மம்

2. No 13, Marvel Street துப்பறியும் கமபியுட்டார்

3. Ghost Squad பிசாசு பட்டாளத்தின் ராத்திரி ரவுண்டு அப

4. Reg Wootton’s Sporty & Sydney உங்கள் அபிமான விச்சு கிச்சு

Lion Comics No 60:Tex Willer Viking thevu Marmam–Summer Special-Front Cover-May 1989 - டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் வைகிங் தீவு மர்மம்

As the Announcement of the Muthu Summer Special Hit the ComiRades, Many of them Felt a Little Bit of “Extra Care” being given to Muthu Comics which was so far given Only To Lion Comics. And, that New Extra Care continued with this issue as well.

Pocket Size – 276 Pages – 8 Stories– 2 Stories in Colour - Laminated Cover – Price INR 5.00

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Chellam சித்திரக் கதை மாமன்னர் செல்லத்தின் அதிமேதை அப்பு இரு கதைகள் வண்ணத்தில்

2. Action Picture Library Tiger Trap புலிப் பொறி

3. Buster பஸ்டர் சிறுகதை

4.  Jose Luis Salinas’ Cisco Kid சிஸ்கோ கிட ஆவியின் கீதம்

5. Steel Claw இரும்புக் கை மாயாவியின் மர்மப் பணி (Read Limat’s Post on This Story)

6. Jess Long ஏஜண்ட் ஜெஸ் லாங் பார்முலா கடத்தல்

7. News Team (பிளீட்வே / ஈகிள்) சிறுகதை நியூஸ் டீம்

Muthu Comics No 176:Summer Special-Front Cover-May 1989	Summer Special-Back Cover: Read Comics Dr 7’s Review HERE

The Long announced “New” Mini Lion also shaped up this year and Here is the One (And Only) Mini Lion issue in this New Series and it is the Rarest Issue ever and TCU Has seen this Book Only in 3 ComiRades Collection. And the Best Part is that, Ayyampalayam Sir Has this Book in 2 Different Variations (Cover Colour Changed). When many of Us Have Not even seen this, Somebody Has 2 Of them. Some Justice?

New Mini Lion Comics No 22:Holiday Special-Front Cover-July 1989	New Mini Lion Comics No 22:Holiday Special-Back Cover-July 1989

The Usual Diwali Special Announcements were also there & That Particular Diwali was Not so memorable.

Pocket Size – 276 Pages – 6 Stories– 2 Way Reading Enabled - Laminated Cover – Price INR 5.00

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லரின் அதிரடிக் கணவாய்

2. Zip Nolan ஜார்ஜ நோலன் சிறுகதை

3. No 13, Marvel Street துப்பறியும் கமபியுட்டார்

4. Ghost Squad பிசாசு பட்டாளத்தின் ஸபாரி சாகசம்

5. Simon Fast அதிரடி வீரர் சைமன் ஆபத்தை தேடி

6. Reg Wootton’s Sporty & Sydney உங்கள் அபிமான விச்சு கிச்சு

Lion Comics No 64:Diwali Special-Front Cover-October 1989	Lion Comics No 64:Diwali Special-Back Cover-October 1989

As Mentioned Above, That Particular Year’s Diwali was a Tough One and Even though they have announced Diwali Special, They Couldn’t Come Up with One. Here is the Ad for that.

Pocket Size – 276 Pages – 5 Stories– Special Gift with this Issue - Laminated Cover – Price INR 5.00

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Spy 13 டேவிட் ஆழ்கடல்

2. Jess Long அதிரடி ஜெஸ் லாங் இரவு மனிதன்

3. Top Secret Picture Library John Havoc ஜான் சில்வர் யுத்த வியாபாரிகள்

4. Steel Claw இரும்புக் கை மாயாவி மாயாவியுடன் ஒரு மினி

5. Inspector Eagle / Garuda இன்ஸ்பெக்டர் ஈகிள் ஐஸ் பெட்டியில் ஒரு பிணம்

Muthu Comics No 180:Christmas Special-Front Cover-Dec 1989	Muthu Comics No 180:Christmas Special-Back Cover-Dec 1989

Year 1990: One of the Toughest Years for ComiRades in Terms of Specials and the Only on that made to count was the summer special and This is the Only summer special that Yours Truly has Bought on a Summer Vocation (And till date remains so,as that was the Last Summer vocation to the Home Town for  Yours Truly). It Featured S.I.6 Hunters as the Major Story for Over 260 Pages (Of the 276 Pages) and it was noted for it’s Size. There were Couple of Sporty and Buster were there also.

Lion Comics No 68:Summer Special-Front Cover-May 1990	Mini Lion Comics No 35:Winter Special-Front Cover-Winter 1991

The Diwali Special Was a Memorable One as it featured The Amazing Spider’s Second Story in Chronological Order with Reg Bunn’s Art work and Jerry’s Script.

Pocket Size – 244 Pages – 4 Stories– 2 Way Reading Enabled – Non Laminated Cover – Price INR 6.00

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Spider ஸ்பைடரின் மீண்டும் ஸ்பைடர்

2. Robot Archie ரோபோ ஆர்ச்சியின் நதி அரக்கன் (Re Print)

3. Inspector Eagle/Garuda இன்ஸ்பக்டர் ஈகிளின் பகலில் ஒரு கொள்ளை

4. Manix மின்னல் மனிதன் மேனிக் (Wait for a Surprise About the Story’ Author)

Lion Comics No 72:Meendum Spider - Diwali Special-Front Cover-Nov 1990	Lion Comics No 72:Minnal Manidhan-Diwali Special-Back Cover-Nov 1990

Year 1991: This was Supposed to be the Year of the Revival of Thigil Comics when it started with the Announcement of 2 Summer Specials. In the End, Only one was Out and it turned out to be Tex Willer’s Thriller in the 1st Part & Fantasy in the 2nd. Normal Size – 132 Pages – Laminated Cover – Price INR 5.00

Thigil Comics No 51:Saithan Samrajiyam-Summer Special-Front Cover-Apr 91	Thigil Comics No 51:Saithan Samrajiyam-Summer Special-Back Cover-Apr 91

One of the Most Debated Issue (Is it THE 200th Issue? Yes, it is). However, it was later on credited and Numbered as issue No 197. Here are the Announcement of the stories:

Pocket Size – 224 Pages – 4 Stories– Non Laminated Cover – Price INR 6.00

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Jose Luis Salinas’ Cisco Kid சிஸ்கோ கிட் மோசடி கழகம்

2. Mandrake மந்திரவாதி மாண்ட்ரேக் பயங்கரப் பல்வலி

3. Johnny Hazard விங் கமாண்டர் ஜார்ஜ் தெரியாமல் செய்த கொலை

4. Code Name Barracuda லாரன்ஸ் டேவிட் பறந்து வந்த பயங்கரவாதிகள்

Muthu Comics No 197:Diwali Special-Front Cover-Oct 1991 (No 200)	Muthu Comics No 197:Diwali Special-Back Cover-Oct 1991 (No 200)

Year 1992: Most Memorable Year for Editor S.Vijayan in terms of Personal Life. Yes, it was the Year in which he Got Married. As the Tex Willer Story was Big,This was Priced at INR 6.00.In the true sense, Not a Special.

Lion Comics No 81: Tex Willer-Pazhi Vangum Puyal-டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் பழி வாங்கும் புயல்-Tex Special-Front Cover-Feb 1992

The Summer was made to be the most awaited as the announcement was circulated, Old Timers were Jumping in Joy as there were many signs of the Revival in Lion Comics. First of all, The Old format of Story Synopsis in the Advertisement. Second, it was the title, Super Special, which was considered to be Lucky considering the 1987 Special. The Storyline was also a mixture of New Heroes and Re entries of Golden oldies. So, Naturally the expectation was so high. Add to that the Posters were sent to the ComiRades who wrote to the Lion Comics office requesting them.

 

 

 Normal Size – 228 Pages – Laminated Cover – 6 New Stories - Price INR 10.00

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Spider Crime Genie ஸ்பைடர் பாட்டில் பூதம்

2. The Rat Pack பெருச்சாளிப் பட்டாளம் அறிமுகம்

3. Rip Kirby ரிப் கிர்பி மரண மயக்கம்

4. விந்தை மனிதன் ரேடார் ஒரு லாலிபாப் படலம்

5. Agent x-9 ஏஜன்ட் காரிகன் மீண்டும் டாக்டர் செவன்

6. Reporter Jack மறையும் மாயாவி ஜாக் வைர வேட்டை

Personally speaking (And Collectively also) this special left a lot to be desired. The Rip Kirby Story was a Classic One and should be ranked among his all time best stories. The Rest was a Tough Choice.

Personally also, This book turned out to be a Disaster. A School Mate of TCU’s (A.V.Jothi Murugan) took 4 Special Books to read (1987 Diwali Super Special, This One, 1986 Pongal Special & 1992 Diwali Special) and None of them were returned. Yours Truly is yet to forgive him for that and even though he is still in sight and Got blessed with a Baby Girl last Year.

Lion Comics No 83:Holiday Super Special-Front Cover-May 1992	Lion Comics No 83:Holiday Super Special-Back Cover-May 1992

 Normal Size – 244 Pages – Laminated Cover – 2 New Stories - Price INR 10.00 – Diwali Special.

One of the Very Best Tex Willer Story and the Villain Scores the Brownies in the Beginning and as the reason for his hatred towards Tex Unfolds, The story reaches a Poetic Climax. The Name of the Villain is still etched in the minds of the Readers: El Myuordo. The Other Story was a Rip Kirby All out Action Adventure (In Trail of Mangler - ஒரு வெறியனைத்தேடி).

Lion Comics No 86:Tex-Kazhugu Vettai-Diwali Special-Front Cover-Oct 1992	Lion Comics No 86:Tex-Kazhugu Vettai-Diwali Special-Back Cover-Oct 1992

Year 1993: One of the toughest years for ComiRades as the specials dried out and so were the Number of Comics with Mini Lion and Thigil Long Gone from the Market. Are we going to see a Radically different take on this comics and its related one from the Comics Doctor? Only time will tell.

Lion Comics No 90:Ratha Veriyargal-Summer Special-Front Cover-May 1993	Lion Comics No 90:Ratha Veriyargal-Summer Special-Front Cover-May 1993

Even though the Promos were good, somehow the other, this Special was Not that Inspiring. Although it featured two of the greatest Investigative Heroes of Comics World together: James Bond 007 and Sherlock Holmes.

Muthu Comics No 220:Diwali Special-Front Cover-Nov 1993	Muthu Comics No 220:Diwali Special-Back Cover-Nov 1993

Year 1994: The 100th Issue of Lion Comics. Aptly named as Century Special and the Advertisements were in the true sense of Lion Comics with Synopsis and the Core group was also encouraging.

B-5 Size Normal Size–340 Pages–8 Stories–Laminated Cover–Price INR 10.00-Lucky Luke in 2 Colour

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் இரும்புக் குதிரையின் பாதையில்

2, Robot Archie ரோபோ ஆர்ச்சி விண்வெளி மோதல்

3. The Saint ஜேம்ஸ் பாண்ட் யுத்த வியாபாரிகள்

4. Lucky Luke லக்கி லுக் ஒரு பியானோவின் கதை (இரு வண்ணங்களில்)

5. The Spider ஸ்பைடர் பனி பிரபு

6. Rip Kirby ரிப் கிர்பி வைரச் சிலை மர்மம்

7. Rich Hochet ரிபோர்ட்டர் ஜானி காற்றில் கரைந்த கொலையாளி

8. Modesty Blaise மாடஸ்டி பிளைசி இரத்தச் சிலை.

Lion Comics 100:Lion Century Special-Summer Special-Front Cover-May 94	Lion Comics 100:Lion Century Special-Summer Special-Back Cover-May 94

Although, this was Not announced as a Diwali Special, This special was a Reprint of the Golden Oldie Steel Claw’s Full Length Adventure in Pocket Size for 180 Pages.

Muthu Comics No 228 - Oct 1994 –Diwali Special – Front Cover - Steel Claw Reprint Mandhira Viththai - Original Issue 119 - Nov 1980

Year 1995: The Summer Special was also one of the Most innovative Special issues as they announced 16 Stories and as it was Named Top 10 Special, there will be Only 10 of them making it to the print. Which 10 Stories will they be? was the contest that ran for months.

Crime Novel Size–428 Pages–10 Stories–Laminated Cover–Price INR 10.00 – Lucky Luke in Multi Colour

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் பாலைவனப் பரலோகம்

2. Robot Archie ரோபோ ஆர்ச்சி ஆர்டிக்கில் ஆர்ச்சி

3. Modesty Blaise மாடஸ்டி பிளைசி மரண ஒப்பந்தம்

4. Mik மின்னல் மனிதன் அறிமுகம்

5. Rich Hochet ரிபோர்ட்டர் ஜானி கொலைக் கடிதம்

6. Spider ஸ்பைடர் எதிரிக்கு எதிரி = எதிரி

7. Lucky Luke லக்கி லுக் ஜாலியை தேடி

8. Bernard Prince கேப்டன் பிரின்ஸ் நியுயார்க்கில் பார்ன்

9. Maddock’s  Marauders மின்னல் படை புரட்சிக் கொரு பயிற்சி

10. Agent X-9 ஏஜன்ட் காரிகன் மனைவி = மரணம்

Lion Comics 112:Lion To 10 Special-Summer Special-Front Cover-May 95	Lion Comics 112:Lion To 10 Special-Summer Special-Back Cover-May 95

Year 1996: This was the year which saw a new style of Special Issues. Yes, the Single story specials were back and the trend started with this issue.Normal Size–180 Pages–1 Story–Price INR 15.00 .

Lion Comics 120:Tex-Marana Mul-Summer Special-Front Cover-Apr 1996	Lion Comics 120:Tex-Marana Mul-Summer Special-Front Cover-Apr 1996

Normal Size–180 Pages–1 Tex Willer Story and 2 Short Stories–Price INR 15.00 .

Lion Comics 126:Nalliravu Vettai-Diwali Special-Front Cover-Nov1996	Lion Comics 126:Nalliravu Vettai-Diwali Special-Back Cover-Nov1996

Year 1997: Same trend of One Story Special’ Continued. However, with a change. One Story for 2 Special Issues. Yes, This particular Tex Willer Story is a Classic One and was too lengthy and the pricing of INR 25.00 was Not approved by Many and hence it was split up in 2 different Specials. For all those who claim Tex Willer is all Slam Bang, TCU Suggests this. May be, it will make you to cry.

Lion Comics 131:Summer Special Part 1-Front Cover-Apr 1997	Lion Comics 132:Summer Special Part 2-Front Cover-May 1997

Year 1998: Well, Blueberry’s Magnum Opus was Uncorked and Hence came out a Special of Unimaginable Proportions. A Story for 320 Pages and it is Not over yet. Can you believe it?

Muthu Comics 259:Mega Special- Summer Special-Front Cover-Apr 1998	Muthu Comics 259:Mega Special- Summer Special-Back Cover-Apr 1998

Year 1999: 150th Special Issue of Lion Comics and As Usual, Tex Willer is Back and the Trend Continued.

Lion Comics Issue No 150:Summer Special-Front Cover-June 1999	Lion Comics Issue No 150:Summer Special-Front Cover-June 1999

Almost similar trend in the Diwali Special as well, except for the Part it had a Iznogoud Story as well.

Lion Comics No 155:Tex Willer-Ratha Nagaram-Diwali Special-Cover-Nov 1999-டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் ரத்த நகரம்-லயன் தீபாவளி சிறப்பு மலர்

Year 2000: It was a Breadth of fresh air when this particular special was announced and it was a Immediate Hit the moment the Stories were disclosed.

Believe it or not, All the stories which were advertised were carried out in the Special.

 Normal Size – 356 Pages – Laminated Cover – 5 New Stories-Price INR 25.00–Lucky Luke in Multi Colour

Lion Comics No 157:Millennium Super Special-Front Cover-Jan 2000	Lion Comics No 157:Millennium Super Special-Back Cover-Jan 2000

It was Not a Special, per se. In the Review Of this Book, one of the letters to the Editor also pointed out the same. The Other Special was also a One Story Special, Though it was in Pocket Size and off 160 Pages.

Lion Comics No 161:Summer Special-Cover-Jun 2000:Review HERE	Lion Comics No 162:Annual-Cover-July 2000-Ratha Boomi

Pocket Size Special Issue after Long time and it was also in the line of Single Story Special and it was a Gargantuan Tex Story for 320 Pages.

Lion Comics No 164:Marana Thudhargal-Diwali Special-Front Cover-Oct 2000	Lion Comics No 164:Marana Thudhargal-Diwali Special-Back Cover-Oct 2000

Year 2001: What turned out to be the Last ever Pocket Size Special, or for that matter, last pocket size book from either Lion or Muthu Comics. Again another Single Story Special.

Lion Comics No 169:Tex Willer-Mexico Padalam- Lion Annual-Cover-July 2001-டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் மெக்சிகோ படலம்-லயன் ஆண்டு மலர்

Year 2003: The Lion Comics Revival Year. The Last year in which we saw 2 Special issues in a Single year.Thick wrappers were back and the trend still continued with this issue also featuring one single (and Big) story of Tex willer.

Lion Comics No 179:Tex Willer - Summer Special-Front Cover-May 2003	Lion Comics No 179:Tex Willer - Summer Special-Back Cover-May 2003

Joe Kubert’s Art work was stunning to say the least and the Diwali Special was an Historical One. Because, Even before the Rest of the world could read the Complete Story, The Tamil ComiRades were able to read this first up. Yes, The English and Italian versions were discontinued after the 1st part and only after Mr Vijayan has published them in Tamil, the rest of the World could see them in One piece together as a complete story. Read More on this HERE in Muthu Fan’s Post.

Further Recommended Reading: Joe Kubert on this Series & How he came to draw Tex – READ HERE.

To Purchase this Piece of History (One among 14 Tex Stories in English – Click HERE.

Lion Comics No 182:Tex Willer – Diwali Special-Front Cover-Oct 2003	Lion Comics No 179:Tex Willer – Diwali Special-BaCK Cover-May 2003

Year 2004: The Return of the King. After the Re-Launch, The Editor was thinking of Something Big and this INR 100/- Priced Special was the One it proved to be. All the 3 INR 100 Special will be reviewed in TCU Later. A Big Blueberry Colour Poster and a Lucky Luke Page Marker were given along with this issue.

Big Size–420 Pages–5 Stories–Laminated Cover–Price INR 100.00-Lucky Luke in Multi Colour

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Lucky Luke லக்கி லுக் லக்கி லூக்கிற்கு கல்யாணம் முழு வண்ணத்தில்

2. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் சிகப்பாய் ஒரு சிலுவை

3. Steel Claw இரும்புக் கை மாயாவி பூமியிலோர் படையெடுப்பு

4. Iznogoud மதியில்லா மந்திரி பாக்தாத்தில் தேர்தல்

5. Blueberry கேப்டன் டைகர் காற்றில் கரைந்த கூட்டம் (3 Parts Clubbed Together)

Lion Comics Issue No 186 Dated May 2004 Mega Dream Special front Cover	Lion Comics Issue No 186 Dated May 2004 Mega Dream Special Back Cover

 Year 2005: The 300th Special issue of Muthu Comics featured the same hero who was there in the 250th Special Issue. Yes, Blueberry was Back for this special issue which was priced at INR 25.00 and even now one of the most available book in the second hand book market.

Muthu Comics Issue 300-Puyal Thediya Pudhayal-Front wrapper-May 2005	Muthu Comics Issue 300-Puyal Thediya Pudhayal back wrapper-May 2005

 Year 2006: After the Himalayan Success of the MDS (Mega Dream Special), The Editor Got enough evidence of the Revival in Comics Reading as the Entire Print Run was sold out and that particular special was Now on demand among the T.C Hunters. Hence, Editor Announced this Special. He himself agreed that The Stories in this special were not in the same league as that of the MDS.

Big Size–360 Pages & 66 Pages in Normal Size –7 Stories–Laminated Cover–Price INR 100.00-Lucky Luke in Multi Colour

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் கானக கோட்டை

2. Rip Kirby ரிப் கிர்பி தேவதையை தேடி

3. Martyn Mystery மர்ம மனிதன் மார்டின் பழி வாங்கும் ரா

4. Modesty Blaise மாடஸ்டி பிளைசி மரண மாமா

5. Bob Morane சாகச வீரர் ரோஜர் கருப்பு கதிரவன்

6. Ric Hochet ரிபோர்ட்டர் ஜானி மரண எச்சரிக்கை

7. Lucky Luke லக்கி லுக் தாயில்லாமல் டால்டன் இல்லை

Lion Comics Issue No 195 Dated May 2006 Lion Jolly Special Front cover	Lion Comics Issue No 195 Dated May 2006 Lion Jolly Special Back cover

 Year 2007: In Actual Plan, There were 2 Different Specials, one each for Lion’s 200th Issue (INR 25.00) and another One (Cow Boy Special at INR 100.00). However, as there was some issues with the Normal run of the Issues, Both of them were clubbed into one Special and TCU got the information that even this special is completely sold out, just like MDS.

Big Size–386 Pages & 16 Pages in Normal Size–7 Stories–Laminated Cover–Price INR 100.00-Lucky Luke in Multi Colour

The Stories That Appeared in this Book Are:

1. Lucky Luke லக்கி லுக் தலைக்கு ஒரு விலை Multi Colour in Big Size

2. Tex Willer டெக்ஸ் வில்லர் பனிக் கடல் படலம்

3. Cicko Kid சிஸ்கோ கிட் பரலோகப் பானம்

4. Steve Randal கவ் பாய் ஸ்டீவ் காதலிக்க நேரமில்லை

5. Blueberry கேப்டன் டைகர் இளமையில் கொல் Young Blueberry 3 Parts

6. Steel Claw இரும்புக் கை மாயாவி மின்சார திருடர்கள் (Read Limat’s Post on This Story)

7. Robot Archie ரோபோ ஆர்ச்சி ஜூ ஜூ படலம் Normal Size Supplement of 16 Pages

Lion Comics Issue No 200 Dated July 2007 Lion Cowboy Special Front Cover	Lion Comics Issue No 200 Dated July 2007 Lion Cowboy Special Back Cover

Recommended Reading for The Above Special Issues:

No	Special Book	Related Comic Blog Post Links in Other Comics Blogs
1	Lion Comics No 19:Thalai Vangi Kurangu-Diwali Special-Nov1985	Muthu Fan’s Comic Post On Tex Willer In English
2	Muthu Comics No 144:Vinveli Kollaiyar -Diwali Special-Nov1985	Comics Doctor Seven’s Comprehensive Review Post
3	Muthu Comics No 158:Tamil New Year Special-April 1987	Comics Doctor’s Over View Post On Pongal Specials
4	Lion Comics No 42:Diwali Super Special-Dated Oct 1987	Muthu Fan’s Comprehensive Review Post On this Special
5	Muthu Comics No 167:Muthu Special– Summer Special-May 1988	Comics Doctor’s Comprehensive Review Post On This
6	Lion Comics No 50:Dragon Nagarm – Summer Special-May 1988	TCU’S Related Memorabilia Post To This Special Issue
7	Muthu Comics No 176:Muthu – Summer Special-May 1989	Comics Doctor’s Comprehensive Review Post On This
8	Lion Comics No 161:Summer Special-Jun 2000-Tiger Joe	TCU’s Comprehensive Coverage of this Special Issue
9	Lion Comics No 50, 150, 157: Special Issues	Muthu Fan’s Nostalgic Post On the Special Issues
10	Lion Comics Issue No 200 Dated July 2007 Lion Cowboy Special	Rafiq Raja’s Ever Updated Post On Cow Boy Special

Note: Apart from the Above Mentioned Special Issues, there were some other issues (Annuals – to be precise) like Adhiradip Padai, Naduk Kadalil Adimaigal etc which were priced at INR 3.00 and was off almost of the same Number of Pages and hence they were Not considered Here and will be reviewed in the month of July.

Now, Most of the Recent Special’s are available with the Publishers (Including the INR 100 Priced Jolly Special and other Tex Willer Specials) and all you need to do is to call them by looking at the side bar of this Blog for the contact Number of the Publisher. For Those who feel that is a tough Job, Here is the Number: 04562 – 272649.

TCU Thanks: One thing That TCU Has found out through Blogging is that it Has an Array of Supporters and Hoards of Well Wishers. Even though Every one of the ComiRades who has visited is to be thanked and The Ones who left a Comment and being a follower must be worshiped, it is Not possible to mention all of them here. Hence, TCU Handpicks a Certain Few.

Muthu Fan: For the Simple Fact that HE is the Inspiration for the Comics Bloggers and Also for the fact that when in dire situation of requiring Rarest Cover Scans, He is the One Who Helps out TCU.

Doctor 7: Apart from being the Partner in Crime, He is THE One who Helps Out TCU in MOST of the Things.

Ayyampalayam Venki Sir: He is the One Who Taught TCU on Scanning and PhotoShop and if the TCU Site Design is Worth Copying, it is Because of Him.

Haja Ismail: Some Of the Rarest Cover Scans are Provided By Him and also for his Unending support through Phone Calls And Visits. He Visited TCU This week and that Meeting will be discussed later on.

Yuva Krishna / Lucky Look: It Was THE friendly meeting that TCU Had with Him on 08th October 2007 that made TCU to understand That Blogging is Quite a Simple Task and He is the One Who Advised TCU to Become a Blogger. On That Same Day Itself This Blog was Started (Even though 1st Post was Made in 2008 Sept Only).

There were quite a few others like Ravi (செந்தழல் ரவி - Who gave the Link to TCU for the first Time in One of His Posts and also encouraged to Write in Tamil, Apart from Routing Comic Queries to My Mail ID), ERB (The One Who Gave His Secret Agent James Bond Comics-English Edition for our Blog), GEC (ஒலக காமிக்ஸ் ரசிகன் who used to Answer the Queries part over here and also a Staunch Supporter of TCU), Poet Tamil Kutty (கவிஞர் தமிழ் குட்டி – Who became TCU’s 1st Ever Follower and Offered Great Help in those Days when Blogging was Quite New To TCU by Installing Some Widgets).

Apart from the above, there are a Lot of others who need to be Thanked individually and if i Name them here, The list will be bigger than this post. Hence, To All the ComiRades who have Helped TCU to attain such a Status, Here is a Simple Thanks. At the End of the Day, That is the Best thing TCU Can Offer apart from assuring that Regular, Original Content and ideas on Tamil Comics Without Factual errors will be provided here in TCU.

As usual, post your comments in the comments section. For those who want to Pen their thoughts in Tamil, Kindly Use the Option Provided in the Widget section or Click Here.

Thanks & Regards,
King Viswa.