Censorship – The Arts

Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has demanded a ban on the auction of MF Husain’s paintings that is scheduled on June 12 at the Pundole Art Gallery in Mumbai. Recalling the painter’s controversial past, it has warned of strong public agitation if the auction is carried out.

The Free Press Journal had reported on June 3 that the 25 rare MF Husain paintings worth Rs25 crore to be auctioned, pursuant to Bombay High Court’s order in February this year after a long legal battle. The auction titled, ‘M F Husain: An Artist’s Vision of the XX Century’, includes 25 canvases painted as part of Husain’s Our Planet Called Earth (OPCE) series, and will be held through Pundole Art Gallery at the Hamilton House in Ballard Estate.

After the auction notice was issued, right-wing Hindu organisation Hindu Janajagruti Samiti wrote to Maharashtra’s chief minister, union home minister, Mumbai police commissioner and the district collector demanding an immediate ban on the auction. The organisation alleged that Husain has been a controversial artist who drew a “vulgar, perverse, obscene, and nude painting insulting Bharat Mata.” It warned of strong public agitation if the demands are not heard and necessary action is not taken.