For students who want to get creative

On first impression, 26-year-old Senthil Kumar, who has dabbled in events, spun tables as a DJ, had a stint in insurance and reporting, makes one wonder where the inspiration for Tadpols, a fortnightly newspaper for kids, came from. He answers, “I’m a big fan of Chacha Chaudhary.  In fact just to test the market for children, I released a comic book titled, Adventures of Poochi, in 2009.” He hands a copy over and explains that it’s about a local boy turned superhero, owing to a hi-tech skateboard gifted by a mentor.Senthil entered media as a part-timer until a difference of opinion with his father resolved him to start a newspaper of his own.He recalls, “When I was in Class 10, I worked part time for a reputed daily newspaper, which was employing youngsters to market their subscriptions. My father thought that I was going door-to-door selling newspapers, and we had a big fight. At that point, I made a promise, ‘One day I will become the owner of a newspaper company’.”Apparently, the idea behind Tadpols came to him four years ago. Senthil explains, “I want to get two schools to contribute for each issue, and this will comprise contributions from Classes 1 to 10.” The plan is for the younger students (Classes 1 to 6) to deliver poems and drawings, while the older ones may send in articles on music, sports, fashion and bikes, as well as pieces about their school and it’s history.“I’ve approached principals of 150 schools so far, and the feedback is very positive,” says Senthil.  “Apart from this, students can also make their contributions through coffee shops and other outlets where Tadpols will be available shortly,” he adds.While plans are underway with the first issue’s young writers, the edit and design work is being carried out by student volunteers around the city. And with some innovative marketing techniques, you might catch a glimpse of the Tadpols logo the next time you bargain with an auto rickshaw driver, considering it’s being plastered on autos’ rears. Or you can also notice them when you purchase a can of drinking water, where the Tadpols will be swimming on the outside of the bubble top.Tadpols will be launched on August 15 and is priced at Rs 200 for an annual student subscription and Rs 20 for annual corporation student subscription. For details, call  9176584015.