New Delhi [India], October 22 (ANI): Amid the controversy over Raihan Vadra’s exhibition “No Idea Is Final”, the Bikaner House Management Society on Thursday said certain photographs on display were “found to be inconsistent” with its policy, and their “removal was requested”.
In a statement, the Society said the photographs that are “consistent” with its policy continue to be displayed.
“Bikaner House is a public cultural institution dedicated to the promotion of art and culture. The exhibition and associated activities must comply with Bikaner House Management Society policy,” the statement said.
The statement comes after Raihan Vadra, son of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, on Wednesday alleged that the management of Bikaner House asked him to remove “bulk” of his artworks at an exhibition which were documenting student protests and other demonstrations.
In a social media post on Instagram, Raihan wrote, “Five hours ago, the Bikaner House Management forced me to remove the bulk of the artworks displayed in my show “No Idea Is Final”, which opens this evening at 7 pm. The photos were of the youth protests in Delhi. Apparently, the content is “objectionable”. They also directed me to remove two photos of the Tiranga. I have refused. I will not take down a picture of the Indian flag.”
Raihan said the show will go on in part for now, and if necessary, he will find another venue and “display the entire collection of protest photos”.
Backing her son on Thursday, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra posted on X, “When someone with power becomes afraid of the expression of another, he doesn’t know it, but he has already lost the very power he is trying to protect. You stand for what is true and everything beautiful will find its way to you. I am proud of you, always will be.”
Raihan’s father, Robert Vadra, also expressed pride in his son, saying that the family would find another venue to display his work.
He said he was unsure whether Bikaner House’s decision was related to the Rajasthan government or was due to other pressures. He added that his son would not be stopped from showcasing his talent.
Speaking to ANI, Vadra said, “I am very proud of Raihan. He has seen what the whole family goes through and has gone through, and what his father has gone through. So, he is a very strong person, a very strong-headed person. He will find another location, and we will do it at another location.” (ANI)
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