Wednesday, January 26 2005 14:59 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Mumbai: Renowned cartoonist, R K Laxman, who has been conferred with this year's Padma Vibhushan, last night (Jan 25, 2005) said he was both happy and satisfied that his "work has been recognised".

"It is a prestigious award and is the result of years' of efforts that I have put in since childhood," he told reporters.

"The award proves that in a democracy like ours, satire and humour are well appreciated," he added.

On the factors that had contributed to his success, he said, "The key factor was that I began at the right time during the post independence era. The new Government provided ample material for ideas." "I also believe in a lot of discipline and have never ignored my work. I work even when I am ailing," he said.

On whether the award would make any difference to his work, he said, "What difference can it make? The award has come because of the work that I have put in. I have always believed in improvising my work and in putting greater efforts in whatever I do."