Click to play videoLondon/new Delhi: He is celebrated as the best known artist of the country and is given sole credit for having placed Indian art on the world map.
Known for his sharp business sense, Maqbool Fida Husain is also perhaps the only artist to have made the masses wake up to Indian art.
But the irony is he will once again not be part of the India Art Summit. All because his art works are a security threat.
Hussain has been on a self imposed exile since 2005 because certain works by him on Hindu Gods and Godesses upset various groups of right wing activists which has resulted in several protests and ransacking of galleries showing any of his works.
So, the artist understands the security concerns of the summit organisers and is happy about the success of the summit.
"It is very good, it is growing in second year. (As long as) this is a private thing, good. When government enters, it’s not welcome,” he said.
But something that bothers most artists is the slump in the market. Is he worried too?
"Not at all, in fact it's strength has doubled, I always said art survives in the time of the crisis,” he said.
While he may still be 'chilled out' about most issues, his supporters here are upset with his absence.
"We have a framed piece with his signature because authorities dissuaded us to bring his actual image, this is a reminder and a protest,” said Geeta Mehra of Saakshi Gallery.
Ashish Anand, Delhi Art Gallery too echoed similar sentiments,”The art summit wouldn’t have been here if not for Husain, because without his contribution, it would have taken another 10 years to reach this level. It’s unfair”.
Sunaina Anand of Art Alive Gallery said many people visiting the gallery will be disappointed “to not have him here”.
The summit organisers have made it clear that it's the government is at fault for not providing enough security at the venue to have his works displayed. The government is mum as always.
(Inputs from Akansha Banerjee)
(For updates you can share with your friends, follow IBNLive on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest)
More on IBNLive Right Now
MOST SHARED
PHOTOGALLERY
