Character Design

Pandit ji – A Character Rooted in Tradition

This character design project focused on developing a strong, culturally rooted personality inspired by everyday Indian life. The task was to illustrate and build a persona that reflects real-world depth and emotion while maintaining distinct visual traits.

“Pandit ji” is a fictional character based in Pune, Maharashtra—crafted to blend semiotic cues from Indian spirituality, regional habits, and emotional nuance.

Character Profile

• Name: Pandit ji
• Age: Late 50s to early 60s
• Location: Pune, Maharashtra
• Voice/Mood: Loud, commanding, grumpy tone
• Nature: Stern, irritable, short-tempered, but not cruel. Beneath his anger lies a well-meaning soul.

Personality Description

Pandit ji is the classic neighborhood priest — grumpy, loud, and quick to scold children playing near the temple. He rarely smiles and walks with a slow but authoritative gait. Despite his tough demeanor, Pandit ji genuinely cares about tradition, rituals, and imparting spiritual knowledge.

He is feared by many and loved by a few, especially those who understand his tough-love attitude.

Hobbies & Interests

➜ Reading religious scriptures (especially the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads)
➜ Performing pujas and rituals in the temple or at home
➜ Gardening (he especially takes pride in his tulsi and hibiscus plants)
➜ Teaching the younger generation about Hindu traditions — albeit in a scolding tone

Visual Design Notes

Expression: Frowning brows, pursed lips, sharp gaze

Clothing: Traditional dhoti-kurta, angavastram, possibly with a sacred thread (janeyu)

Details: Rudraksha beads, sandalwood tilak, reading glasses, and a copper water pot

Setting: Usually found either near a Tulsi plant, under a neem tree, or in a small temple courtyard.