Archive · 7 Jun 2025
Hindu Group Calls for Ban on Auction of M.F. Husain Paintings
A Hindu group called the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) is protesting against an upcoming auction of paintings by the late artist M.F. Husain.
The group claims some paintings depict Hindu deities and Bharat Mata in a way that is offensive and vulgar, especially a painting titled 'Rape of Mother India' made during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
They believe the auction glorifies anti-national and anti-Hindu sentiments, demanding the auction be stopped and the painting destroyed.
Husain, known as the 'Picasso of India,' faced controversy for his depictions of Hindu figures, leading to legal challenges and his eventual exile.
The group references a recent court directive and warns of protests if the auction proceeds, seeking legal action against those who sell or display the artwork.
The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) has demanded a ban on an upcoming art auction.
The auction is for 25 paintings by the late artist M.F. Husain.
The group alleges that some paintings contain controversial and 'vulgar' depictions.
HJS is protesting the auction, citing offense to religious and national sentiments.
The auction is to be held at the Pundole Art Gallery in Mumbai on June 12.
- Who
- Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) and officials at Pundole Art Gallery
- What
- Demand to ban an auction of M.F. Husain's paintings
- When
- Upcoming auction scheduled for June 12
- Where
- Mumbai, India
- Why
- The group considers some paintings to be offensive and anti-national.
Supporters of Artistic Freedom
Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS)
Freedom of Expression vs. Religious and National Sentiments
Supporters of Artistic Freedom
Art is a form of free expression, and the paintings should be allowed to be auctioned as they are a part of an artist's legacy.
Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS)
The paintings are offensive to Hindu religious sentiments and are potentially anti-national, the auction should be banned and the paintings destroyed.
- Auction Location
- Pundole Art Gallery, Mumbai
- Auction Date
- June 12 (scheduled)
- Number of Paintings
- 25 paintings
- Artist
- M.F. Husain
- Protesting Group
- Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS)
- Key Issues
- Controversial depictions of Hindu deities, 'Rape of Mother India' painting