​5 paintings by Indian artists that stirred up a controversy

Indian art has a long and diverse history, with artists often exploring themes and styles that do not conform to the societal norms of the time. Their work is often ‘out-of-the-box’, challenging beliefs and roles, which in turn cause controversies. These controversies arise from depictions of deities, cultural symbols, and modern reinterpretations, sparking debates on artistic freedom and cultural sensitivity.

Here we list down five paintings by Indian artists that sparked controversies.

There has always been a very fine line between an artist's imagination of a masterpiece and controversy that might ensue. The fine line is usually defined by societal norms and individual interpretations. However, what one sees as artistic expression, another might view as offensive or unacceptable. It is not wrong to say that on one hand while art can push boundaries, provoke thought and stimulate intellectual conversations, on the other hand, it can also trigger intense debates and discomfort.

The fine line, thus, might seem blurry but should never be ignored. For history is evidence to the fact that controversies do not simmer down, they boil back up time and again.

Raja Ravi Varma, a distinguished Indian artist and painter, encountered controversy during the colonial era due to his portrayal of Hindu deities and mythological figures. His adoption of European artistic techniques in representing Hindu gods and goddesses was perceived by some as a departure from traditional Indian art styles. He stirred considerable controversy by painting semi-nude depictions of mythological characters, attracting criticism and debates over the appropriate portrayal of revered figures in Indian mythology. For example: semi-nude paintings of Urvashi, Rambha from the time of Mahabharata and Ramayana.

One of the most prominent and controversial Indian artists is M.F. Husain, often called the ‘Picasso of India’. Husain was known for his avant-garde style and his portrayal of various themes, including Hindu deities and Indian culture. However, it was his depictions of Hindu goddesses, particularly Saraswati, Durga and Bharat Mata, that stirred significant controversy. Critics and religious groups accused Husain of hurting religious sentiments and disrespecting Hinduism by painting these revered figures in a manner that was deemed provocative and offensive.

(Image: Pinterest)

One cannot discuss controversial Indian art without mentioning the legendary artist Amrita Sher-Gil. Born to a Hungarian mother and an Indian father, Sher-Gil's art was often criticized for its bold exploration of female sexuality and themes of nudity. During a time when conservative societal norms prevailed, her works were considered scandalous and provocative. Sher-Gil's paintings challenged traditional perspectives on femininity and sexuality, paving the way for a more progressive and liberated approach to art in India. Despite the controversy surrounding her art during her lifetime, Amrita Sher-Gil is now hailed as a pioneer and a significant influence on modern Indian art.

(Image: Pinterest)

Akram Hussain, an artist based in Assam, faced controversy for his artworks displayed in a group exhibition at the Guwahati State Art Gallery in Ravindra Bhavan in 2015. The painting depicted the Hindu deity Lord Krishna along with seven gopis in a bar, all clad in bikinis. This portrayal of Lord Krishna was met with strong criticism. Consequently, an FIR was filed against Akram Hussain for allegedly hurting the sentiments of Hindus and the painting was seized from the state gallery.

(Image: Indian Muslim Post)

In 2016, a mural featuring a modern interpretation of Lord Hanuman stirred controversy at IIT Bombay during the Mood Indigo fest. The mural portrayed him holding a pen adorned with modern accessories like shorts, knee pads, headphones, watches, a tie, and spectacles. Additionally, he was depicted wearing a slipper and a shoe, with the tail replaced by the saffron flag. Members of Shiv Sena objected to this portrayal, finding it disrespectful towards the Hindu deity. In response to the protests, the organizers decided to white-wash the mural and issued an apology letter to address the concerns raised by Shiv Sena.

(Image: IIT Bombay)

The world of paintings is where centuries and styles collide, and where controversy can manifest in surprising ways. In global terms, the art world witnessed this contrast with the likes of Maurizio Cattelan's "Comedian" in 2019, a simple banana duct-taped to a wall, which incited heated debates about the boundaries of modern art and the value we place on it. On the other end of the historical spectrum, we have Michelangelo's "The Last Judgement," adorning the Sistine Chapel since 1541. This timeless masterpiece was considered scandalous in its time due to its daring depiction of nudity, earning the wrath of church officials and necessitating later alterations to cover the exposed figures. These two works, separated by centuries, underline the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of art's ability to challenge conventions, norms, and sensibilities, revealing that controversy in the realm of painting is as enduring as the art itself.

Image: The Collector